Why Is My Swimmer Not Getting Faster? 4 Tips for Faster Swimming

Watching your swimmer master new techniques is exhilarating, but when their speed plateaus, it can leave you wondering what you can do to help them improve. Don’t worry! Here, we’ll unveil the tips that can ignite a swimmer's performance and propel them towards their goals!

Listen to Your Coach

It's crucial to evaluate the swimmer's technique. Poor or inefficient form can significantly hinder speed. As a swim coach, there are suggestions I give repeatedly to swimmers who may make the change for the lap or the set, but then go right back to their old ways.

Ask your swimmer if there is any changes their coach suggests, and check-in to see if they are actually making the change. Change starts at practice, so don't wait for a swim meet to try and change up a stroke. Sometimes, all it takes is a slight adjustment to a swimmer's timing or body position to drop time in their races!

Go to Practice

It should go without saying - the only way to swim faster is to SWIM! There's a saying in the sport of swimming that for every one day of practice missed you fall three days behind.

It's no secret that swimming requires not just skill but also endurance. This allows them to finish strong without fatigue. Going to practice regularly will ensure that both technique and endurance continue to develop - leading to faster times in the pool.

Fuel Properly

When it comes to performance, nutrition plays a pivotal role, and young athletes often overlook this aspect. A balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins will help sustain energy levels during training and competition.

Encourage your swimmer to hydrate adequately and snack on nutritious foods pre- and post-training. Fueling the body correctly can enhance recovery and performance, directly impacting their speed in the water.

Mental Resilience Matters

Swimming is as much a mental game as it is physical. Encourage your swimmer to develop mental toughness and resilience. Positive affirmations, visualization techniques, and regular goal-setting can help build a winning mindset.

Teach them to celebrate small victories and understand that progress may take time. Keeping spirits high and maintaining a positive attitude will motivate them during training and races.

Conclusion

While watching your swimmer tackle new challenges can be thrilling, it’s essential to remember that speed isn’t everything. Focus on their overall development, from technique and endurance to nutrition and mindset.

With time, dedication, and the application of these tips, you’ll likely see those numbers on the clock drop! Celebrate every stride your swimmer takes towards improvement. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.