On first blush you think...it's amazing that there aren't more Masters Programs in the Los Angeles area. After all, we do live in the desert. Then you realize...everyone already has pools, oh; and we live by the beach.
Anyhoo...after a long three year break, I crave the thrill of victory and have taken up triathlon again. I used to swim with SCAQ when I lived in Venice (another very good program), but it's just too far for me to drive for a pre-dawn workout.
The program is held in the Cal Lutheran Pool which was only recently finished. The pool is an outstanding 50 meters which will put the hurt on you if like me, you are woefully unfit. You can't fake fitness in swimming.
Nancy, the head masters coach is quite accomplished...UCLA All American, Top Ten in the world in backstroke, etc. etc. She's a good coach who keeps her eye on everyone and gives regular feedback. Her workouts are tough...especially the 1.5 hour workouts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They even have another coach take the beginners in the 25 meter pool to teach noobs pool ettiquette, strokes, flip turns and all that other neat stuff.
While they have a lot of items you will need...pull buoys, kick-boards, fins, you may want to invest in those AND a swim cap (if you're a lady), clear and dark goggles (if you're going to swim during the day), hand paddles (start with small ones that fit the size of your hands), wait and buy your fins from Nancy. Also I noted that people are using snorkels when doing pull drills.
A couple things BRING WATER!!! Yes, you're in the water, but you still need to drink. If you're a guy and you're not used to wearing those lovely package revealing speedos, you can keep your goodies under wraps with the "down to the knee" versions at your local Sports Chalet.
They have locker rooms with showers. read more