It takes a special kind of dedication to get in the car when it’s 10 degrees below zero outside just to go jump in a pool.
But that’s exactly what our members do.
Today, we are spotlighting Paul Cool, the newest finisher of the 2025 100-Mile Swim Club at the Kandi Y. If you’ve seen someone tearing up the lanes with effortless technique, it was probably him.
From "Marshall Meters" to Willmar Miles
"When I was 6, my parents made me join AAU with the Marshall Meters," Paul says. "By 14, I was competing in regionals and state in high school."
Decades later, he is still at it. Why? Because it works.
Paul points out something we hear all the time from our active adults: Low Impact.
"It's been easier for me to swim as I age because it comes naturally to me," he says. "I’ve been doing it a long time."
The "Josh" Factor
We asked Paul what on earth inspired him to sign up for 100 miles. Was it glory? Fitness? A New Year’s resolution?
Nope. It was a guy named Josh.
"Saw his picture last year and wanted to be like him," Paul joked. "He's a stud. Ha ha."
This is what the Y is all about. Friendly competition. Seeing your neighbor’s photo on the wall and thinking, “If he can do it, so can I.”
Paul’s Routine
Paul didn’t just float his way to 100 miles; he had a plan. He aimed for at least 2 miles a week, balancing his pool time with strength training on other days.
Want to train like a lifelong swimmer? Here is a peek at one of Paul’s typical sessions.
- The Warm-Up: 200 - 500 yards to get loose.
- The Gear Work: 200 - 400 yards using paddles and a pull buoy
- The Sprints: 5 sets of 100 yards, with a 30-second rest between each.
- The Cool Down: 250 yards nice and easy to finish.
Ready to join Paul in the 100-Mile Swim Club?
You don’t need to be a former state competitor like Paul to join the fun. You just need a swimsuit and a goal.
Whether you are joining a Water Aerobics class or full butterfly sprints, every lap counts toward the 100.
Registration is OPEN for the 2026 Challenge! Let’s make this the biggest year yet for the Kandi Y swimmers.