Any Other Swimmers?

[Mycon]

In the time that I was on a BnB hiatus, I wound up with a health problem that prevents me from doing the mainstay of my health routine: Cycling and taking a weekly spinning class. I hate running and certain weight exercises irritate the problem, so I've been slothing it up all summer. Then I happened to catch a documentary about swimmers. When I was younger, I actually swam competitively at my local rec center. I quit due to some terrible people on the team, and the fact that there really wasn't much decent equipment available, but I've always loved swimming.
So today, I hit a local swim shop. I grabbed a jammer-style suit and the first decent set of goggles I've ever used, and hit the local lap pool. I did about 400m, then had to get out and rest before doing another 400. My technique is still good, but man is my stamina toast. Are there any other swimmers on board who might have tips? Since this is BnB, I am also looking for information about skin and hair products for swimmers

[AjaxLepinski]

400m is really good for not being in the water in a while! I was on a swim team in Jr High, a lifeguard in High School and I started surfing late at 32. Now that I'm 52, I run out of gas fairly quickly. To increase my paddling and swimming stamina, I bought a Total Gym on Craig's List for $100. It's great for doing the swimming motion when you can't get in the water. I'm not sure if the Total Gym is for you but, it doesn't put any pressure on your legs or lower back like weights do. It's great for the upper body; lat pulls, curls, reverse curls. If you decide to get one, try to leave it set up... once you fold it up and slide it under your bed, you'll never use it!