Cambridge Masters Workout Schedule

What is the average age of CMSC members?
We accept members ages 19 and up. The average is in the mid 30s but we also have members in their 50s and 60s.

What type of swimmers join the program?
CMSC consists of competitive swimmers, triathletes and fitness swimmers.

Do I need to know all four strokes?
We use all four strokes (butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle) in workouts. If you only know freestyle and backstroke but are comfortable in the water, then you should be able to pick up butterfly and breaststroke with some technique work from our coaching staff.

How many yards or meters per workout?
This varies on the type of workout (sprint, stroke, distance), the length of practice and the time of year. It is common to swim between 2500 and 3500 yards or meters in an hour practice and 3000-4500 in an hour and a half workout.

Is stroke technique work offered?
The coaching staff will make comments on strokes and provide helpful hints, but there is no specific individualized technique instruction.

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How is a typical season structured?
The season is structured with the competitive swim season in mind. Workouts will consist of more drills and endurance work in the fall and winter and move towards a sprint focus in the spring before the New England Masters Championships and Nationals. The summer season begins in a similar fashion, but it is a shorter season overall concluding in August.

Do I have to compete?
Although we do not make people compete, we do encourage participation for the short course New England Masters Championships in March, and the short course meters NE Championships in December. If you have a particular competition in mind, please share your goals with the coaching staff so that they can help you plan appropriately.

Joining Cambridge Masters Swim Club

How do I join?
If you wish to join, please go to our Registration page.

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Getting Started

Do I need to be cleared by a doctor in order to practice?
No, but you should consult your doctor if you have not had a physical recently or have any physical conditions that could be affected by swimming. We will require a doctor's note if you are returning from surgery, a long illness or injury. Please keep the coaching staff informed of any changes in your medical condition.

Can I swim if I am pregnant?
Yes, we do have women who swim when they are pregnant, but you will need to consult your doctor for a professional opinion.

What equipment do I need to bring?
Goggles, and cap (fins/zoomers and paddles are optional). There are kick boards available on pool deck.

What happens at the first workout?
At your first workout, please introduce yourself to the coach on deck. The first ten minutes is warm up swimming on your own. Please use this time to evaluate where you are in relation to others in your lane. The coach will also help place you in a lane appropriate for your swimming.

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Club Organization

How will I know if the practice schedule changes?
All members are on the e-mail distribution list when they join. This list is for notifying members of practice changes, meet updates and session renewals. It is YOUR responsibility to forward any changes in your e-mail address. Changes are also posted on the Home and Member pages of our web site.

Where are practices held?
The majority of our practices are at Blodgett Pool at Harvard University. A few morning practices are run at the Malkin Athletic Center (MAC) in Harvard Square. See our Facilities page for directions to the pools, and our Workout page for practice times and locations.

How do I renew?
Renewal notifications are sent via e-mail before your registration expires. It is your responsibility to register on time. If a session begins and you are not on the list with a current registration, then you may be turned away by the desk monitor.

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Are there any social events for the club?
We do have a separate CMSC social e-mail group, which notifies interested members of team outings, dinners, etc. For more information, click on the"Social" link on the menu bar at top.

How is the club organized and run?
CMSC is independent of Harvard University, and rents its facilities. We are fortunate to have a full time administrator and coach to help the program run efficiently. Sarah Kurchian will answer registration and renewal questions, Stephanie Morawski is the Director of the program and Abe Rogers, Head Coach, will answer all swimming related questions. Once a swimmer is in the program, all changes to workout times, renewal information, etc. are conveyed via e-mail.

How does CMSC relate to New England Masters Swim Club and USMS?
The Cambridge Masters Swim Club is a workout site for the parent organization New England Masters Swim Club. All of our members should also be registered with United States Masters Swimming for insurance reasons as well as to be able to compete in meets.

Can guests from other clubs swim at CMSC?
We may be able to accomodate out of town swimmers who are registered with USMS. E-mail info@cambridgemasters.com with your request.

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