Caffeine in Swimming

Swimming

Swimming is a sport that demands a lot from the human body. In addition to proper technique and physical endurance, it is important for athletes to have a focused mind and sufficient energy to perform movements effectively.

Caffeine

Caffeine is an alkaloid found in various plants such as coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana. It is one of the most consumed substances worldwide and can have various effects on the human body, including stimulation of the central nervous system, reduction of fatigue, and increase in concentration.

Caffeine in Swimming

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that can improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and increase energy and physical endurance. When consumed in moderate doses, caffeine can have beneficial effects on performance in swimming.

Furthermore, scientific studies show that caffeine can increase muscle contraction capacity, improving muscle strength and power. This can be especially useful in short-duration races, such as the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Personal Narrative

As a personal narrative, I have noticed that when I do not drink coffee before swimming class, I feel less energy and strength to perform propulsion with my legs, resulting in bad performance. However, when I drink coffee in the morning before class, I feel more alert and energized, which reflects in better performance in the pool.

I only realized this connection today because it is not my usual habit to drink coffee, as caffeine causes me anxiety, which, in turn, worsens my tics. Therefore, I was able to verify, just like about two months ago, that my performance was better – because I drank coffee.

Summary

In summary, caffeine can be an ally in swimming performance, especially when consumed in moderate doses and within the recommended daily limits. However, it is important to remember that proper technique, consistent training, and healthy nutrition are also essential to achieve good results in the pool.

However, it is important to remember that each individual may react differently to caffeine, and it is advisable to consult a health professional before increasing caffeine consumption, especially if there is a history of heart problems, insomnia, or anxiety.

Overcoming Tourette’s

Today, I want to share with you my story of overcoming and determination, but also of difficult moments when I lost hope.

As some of you may already know, I had to drop out of school early due to Tourette’s, a neurological condition that causes involuntary tics. It was a very difficult time in my life, and there were moments when I thought I would never be able to achieve my dreams.

However, after undergoing surgery that reduced my tics, I decided to pursue a training course in TI, something that I have always enjoyed. And so, I completed another course as a Health Care Assistant, which lasted about 17 months and gave me the equivalent of a high school diploma. Still, I felt that there was much more to be achieved and decided to challenge myself even further.

That’s why I’m working hard to enter university through the mature student route, to study computer engineering, which has always been my dream. I know it won’t be easy, but I’m willing to work hard to achieve this goal. I am certain that with determination and effort, I can overcome any obstacles that come my way.

My story is proof that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to move forward and achieve our goals. Whatever your situation, never lose hope and believe in yourself and your abilities. Remember that you are capable of achieving everything you desire, as long as you work hard and fight for your dreams.

I hope my story can inspire others to never give up on their goals, no matter how difficult it may seem. Believe in yourselves, fight for your dreams, and never lose hope. And for those in a similar situation to mine, with Tourette’s or any other condition, I want to say that you are strong and can achieve anything you desire. Don’t let anything stop you from moving forward and achieving your dreams.

Swimming Lessons in 2023

In 2020, I signed up for swimming lessons at the Covilhã Municipal Pool, but unfortunately the classes were suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, in 2023, I decided to re-enroll and I’m learning how to swim. However, I’ve been facing some difficulties because I can’t relax in the water and end up sinking.
Now I realize that relaxation is essential for swimming and fully enjoying the benefits of this sport. So, I’ve been trying to stay calm and patient, knowing that I won’t be able to swim perfectly right away. Far from it, actually.
In addition to the physical benefits, swimming also has benefits for mental health. For example, I suffer from Tourette’s syndrome and I discovered that swimming helps me control my tics.
When I’m in the pool, I feel calmer and more relaxed. The water has a calming effect on me and helps me forget my tics. In fact, when I’m in the water, I don’t have them. After all, stress and anxiety are factors that can exacerbate them.
Currently, I’m very motivated about swimming and would like to go more often during the week. Unfortunately, spots at the municipal pool are limited and it’s difficult to get a place at this time of year. However, I’m keeping an eye out for new openings and as soon as there’s an opportunity, I’ll enroll to be able to swim more often.

Covilhã Municipal Pool

Sweatcoin – Walk to earn

Sweatcoin is a free app which rewards your daily steps with a new-generation currency you can spend on cool products or donate to charity.

What is Sweatcoin

Sweatcoin is a free mobile app that counts your steps and turns them into a digital currency called sweatcoins.

How does it work?

The more you walk, the more you earn. And the more you earn, the more you walk!

Studies show that rewards motivate people to stay active.

What can users do with their sweatcoins?

  • Buy deals, products, and digital offers
  • Bid in high-value auctions (PlayStation 5, GoPro Hero 9)
  • Donate to charities like Save the Children

German

Now, although not mastered, but know how to speak english, I’m learning German with this wonderful free app. Try it, that is even fun!

Concluded TI Operator Course

Passed about 8 months formation with 3 syncronous and 4 assyncronous hours per day, all day of the week, I concluded the TI Operator Course.

What is Tourette’s Syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome is a chronic neurological disorder that results in the presence of certain tics, simple or complex, starting before the age of the 18 years. Tics are meaningless, involuntary, rapid, and recurrent movements (motor tics) and vocalizations (vocal tics) out of context.
It’s frequency and intensity are variable. Tourette syndrome is three times more common in men than in women. Tics can persist into adulthood in approximately one percent of children. Tourette’s syndrome was first described in 1885 by French neurologist George Gilles de la Tourette.

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Upgraded from CS7AKG to CT7AKG

Passed Upgraded my licenseI passed the exam at ANACOM and upgraded my license!

I’m now category 1 radioamateur! Now I’m CT7AKG instead of CS7AKG

I Know about Cybersecurity

Finished in less than 1 hour an online course about cibersecurity with expected workload of 15 hours.

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