Winning Strategies

Swimming World and Junior Swimmer, Feb 2005 by Goldsmith, Wayne, Morris, Helen

1. Prepare physically

• There is no doubt that this is one of the most important aspects of competing successfully. If you are not ready physically, you are simply not ready!

2. Prepare mentally

• Many swimmers, coaches, clubs and parents build up a national competition to something it is not. The truth is simple: championship competition is just another event.

3. Prepare technically

• The athletes who win at national competitions will be those who have prepared to do the little things well under pressure by practicing to do them well in training.

4. Prepare tactically

Tactics play a crucial role in swimming successfully at a national competition.

Here are some tactical issues to consider:

• Do you have a race plan?
• Are you able to stick to your race plan regardless of what the opposition is doing?
• Have you learned to change gears (speed) when needed?

5. Prepare for the worst

If things don't go according to plan, you should learn skills to adapt to any situation and to deal with difficulties:

• Can you learn to race fast without a complete warm-up?
• Do you have contingency plans for late flights, long waits, buses not available, lack of lane space, forgotten race goggles, lost bags, etc.?

6. Practice preparation strategies in minor lead-up competitions

• Some minor lead-up competitions are the ideal place to practice the physical, mental, technical and tactical strategies that you'll be utilizing at a national competition.

7. Have several warm-up strategies and learn use each one

• While a good warm-up can be important in achieving successful swimming performances, there are hundreds of stories about swimmers winning major events and breaking records after less than ideal warm-ups. The key is to have more than one warm-up strategy.

8. Go to the pool prior to race day and do some reconnaissance

• Reconnaissance is just a big word for being prepared. This is a time to become familiar with your surroundings.

9. Control the controllable: sleeping, eating, recovery

• You should be educated on how to implement an effective sleeping, eating and recovery strategy in the months leading up to your major event.

10. Learn to enjoy the experience

• Confidence at and enjoyment of the championship environment comes from knowing you have had a total and thorough preparation.

Then you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Copyright Sports Publications, Inc. Feb 2005