Coach G Swimming Revolution

As another Olympic Game comes to a close, the drive and ambition of young athletes are at an all-time high. But the road to Olympic glory is long and arduous, requiring an incredible level of commitment and dedication.

Every now and then, we encounter a parent who believes their child is the next Michael Phelps, ready to embark on a path to greatness. But here is a question to consider: Do you want to be like Michael Phelps, or do you simply want as many medals as he does?

If it is just his medals you are after, good news—you can find replicas on eBay for $50 while lounging on your sofa and playing video games. But if you are aiming to emulate Michael Phelps himself—chosen by the gods of Olympus, so to speak—then we need to have a serious discussion.

Achieving a high level of competitiveness in swimming today demands an extraordinary commitment. This often means a strict routine and significant lifestyle changes not just for the swimmer but for the entire family. Discipline, persistence, early morning practices, and a host of other sacrifices are all part of the journey. So, do you really want to be the next champion?

My personal chart to motivate my swimmers

Have you ever heard the saying, “Be careful what you wish for”? This rings especially true in swimming and in life. Every day, we make choices that shape our path and influence how close or far we are from reaching our goals. So, choose wisely, as those small, daily decisions can significantly impact your journey.

Here are 12 tips to effectively make your swimming routine more efficient:

1. Set Clear Goals: Be honest with yourself, define what you want to achieve, something achievable and challenge —whether it is improving your technique, increasing endurance, or competing in a specific event. Clear goals will guide your training focus. Be very specific and write it down.
2. Create a Structured Daily Routine: Practices time, school and homework time, leasing and fun time, meals time. Be consistent with your routine. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your routine as needed. Life can be unpredictable, so adjusting your schedule or goals can help you stay on track without feeling discouraged.
3. Create a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a swim team. Having encouragement and accountability can make a big difference in staying committed.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize and reward yourself for achieving milestones and making progress. Celebrating small victories can help maintain motivation and enthusiasm.

5. Focus on Technique: Prioritize perfecting your stroke mechanics and breathing technique. Even small improvements in technique can lead to significant gains in performance.
6. Incorporate Strength Training: Complement your swimming with dry-land exercises that enhance overall strength, flexibility, and core stability.
7. Monitor Your Progress: Keep a training log to track your workouts, times, and any adjustments made. Regularly review your progress to identify areas for improvement.
8. Get Adequate Rest: Ensure you have rest days and prioritize sleep to allow your body to recover and prevent overtraining. Rest is important as good day of practice.
9. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper nutrition and hydration support your training efforts and overall performance. Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
10. Focus on Enjoyment: Find aspects of swimming that you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine. Whether it’s trying new drills, setting personal records, or socializing with fellow swimmers, enjoyment will make commitment easier.
11. Stay Educated: Continuously learn about swimming techniques, training methods, and nutrition. Staying informed can enhance your performance and keep you engaged.
12. Visualize Success: Regularly visualize achieving your goals and the benefits of your hard work. Positive visualization can boost confidence and reinforce your commitment.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance the effectiveness of your swimming routine and work towards achieving your goals more efficiently.