Busting 3 Myths About Fast Swimmers (and Revealing the Truths Behind Them)

If you watched the 2024 Olympics—and what an occasion that was—you had been possible wowed by the athletic prowess of all of the athletes, particularly the swimmers. Maybe you went again to your Masters observe and marveled with all of the swim geeks at your favourite performances. And ultimately the discuss turned to, “Why are these athletes so fast?”

At that time, some myths might have come up. The first one is often that you just needed to have a sure physique kind to swim quick. Next may need been, “They make it look so easy because of natural talent.” Lastly, the previous debate about what kicking does for swimming and the way a lot exercise time it’s best to dedicate to kicking in case you can swim quick with out it.

Myth #1: You want a sure physique kind to swim quick

Height, muscle mass, arm size, torso size, and hand and foot dimension all differ. Body geometry does certainly have an affect on quick swimming however—and it is a massive however—there are elite swimmers in lots of sizes and styles.

Genetic elements are these you don’t have any management over, so it’s essential to work with what you’ve got. Body geometry isn’t nearly propulsive surfaces but in addition the form and quantity of water you displace. Large, muscular our bodies could possibly generate extra propulsive drive, however in addition they create extra drag that have to be overcome.

In addition to musculature and the flexibility to generate energy, there are variations in method that elite athletes use to strengthen their weaknesses—they usually do have weaknesses. Some variations are invisible—there are athletes blessed with larger capability to course of oxygen, or who’ve extra of a sure kind of muscle fiber that gives for both fast-twitch velocity or slow-twitch endurance.

It isn’t all about physique kind—maximizing what you had been born with is essential.

Myth #2: Fast swimmers are simply naturally proficient

It’s true that there’s an unequal distribution of expertise. But that is pure and good for each the game and humanity usually. Yes, some folks take to sure abilities extra readily than others and swimming isn’t any totally different. Swimmers typically get annoyed as a result of somebody is getting sooner at a faster tempo than they’re. That’s what expertise will do for you.

But swimmers with much less expertise who should regularly regulate and grind issues out and work arduous are those who not solely maximize their velocity but in addition construct resiliency within the face of adversity. That grit and the flexibility to push via will get developed over time and permits much less proficient athletes to surpass their extra proficient friends who don’t work as arduous. Talent will solely take you thus far.

When expertise and grit come collectively, be careful. Something wonderful goes to occur. How a lot of every you convey to the desk is what is going to decide your success.

Myth #3: Distance swimmers don’t must kick

This matter stirs a variety of debate amongst distance swimmers. (There are some people who find themselves not proficient at kicking or simply expend an excessive amount of vitality for little or no further velocity. But relatively than hand over on kicking, they’ll practice with extra kicking to enhance.)

Katie Ledecky swam each the 800- and 1500-meter freestyle on the 2024 Olympics. She has such an awesome stroke that she’ll usually drop all the way down to a two-beat kick after getting off to a quick begin. Myth verified? Not actually; learn on.

Bobby Finke saved a gradual rhythm the entire manner for the 1500-meter after which actually turned up the kick on the final a part of the race.

Both swimmers are world file holders, strategy these occasions otherwise, and are nicely coached to maximise their strengths. Katie Ledecky is an efficient kicker, and she or he turns it on with enthusiasm when she must. Bobby Finke makes use of it as a strong weapon and provides further when wanted. Although neither had been kicking like they had been swimming a dash 50, each confirmed that utilizing the kick successfully as a part of a race plan is a superb thought and conserving vitality when wanted can be a part of that technique.

So many myths are born out of cautious remark of what we predict is true. Those observations are sometimes primarily based on one topic in a pool in entrance of 1 coach. Coaching as a occupation may be very very similar to a guild. Yes, there are programs, however usually you be taught probably the most from others within the subject. Swimming works the identical manner. Often, we imitate others who’re profitable. But as you assessment the three myths about quick swimming and the truths behind them, you may see that nothing is forged in stone and that arduous work can beat expertise and technique can beat energy.

Fast swimming is about consistency and depth. It’s about being considerate about your method. Lastly, it’s about discovering out what works for you. Fast swimmers are available all styles and sizes and from quite a lot of backgrounds. Work on strengthening your weaknesses and leveraging your strengths. And have enjoyable!