I do a pattern of strokes for 12 lengths, and then repeat the pattern. I do 2 lengths of kickboard (alternating flutter kick and frog kick), then 4 lengths of breaststroke, 2 kickboard again, then 4 lengths of backstroke.

I used to swim competitively when I was a kid, but all my strokes are really rusty, so I have trouble with free (I can’t stand getting the damn water in my ears!!!). If I were in better shape, I’d probably take out the kickboard stuff and add in free, but for right now, I use the kickboard laps to catch my breath.

There’s still plenty of room for improvement in my swimming, but endurance isn’t the problem. Once I reach this goal, I’ll set other goals involving certain numbers of laps in a certain time period, to force myself to work harder as I swim.