To help take your swimming to the next level, Kiefer’s own Emily Milak compiled a list of 7 habits effective swimmers have. Let us know which habit has been most beneficial in your swimming, and add your own to the list in the comments!
Be Self-Possessed
There has to be a certain level of ego, self-awareness, and confidence to be an elite level athlete in any field. Over confidence can be a flaw, but combine that confidence with work ethic and you have a monster, one that will crush swims on a regular basis.
Embrace the Culture
Swimming is hard. It will consume your life. But if you accept it, love it, and let it be part of you the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.
Take Ownership
This is your career and your lifestyle choice. The results will come out of the time and effort you put it. Don’t place blame for failures on the shoulders of others. Every problem has a solution, work with your peers and your coaches to find them.
This Ain’t No Part Time Job
Swimming has no off season. You get sick or injured; you know where this is coming from. The more time you spend out of the water, the more feel for the water you lose. Out for a week? Takes two weeks to gain back your losses. Likewise, you are always a swimmer, in the water and out. Make choices that will positively impact your performance.
Integrity
Recognize the commitment you have made to yourself. Respect yourself and the choice you made to strive to be elite. Don’t sell yourself short and take a day off, before you know it one day has turned to two because your mom’s car battery was dead.
Goals
Elite athletes and outstanding people are goal setters. Without goals you have no direction, no path to travel. You can put in the miles, but if you don’t know where you are going you are bound to get lost. Swimmers don’t have time to get lost.
Task Masters
With the max consumption of time that swimming demands scheduling is key. Know what your day holds. Prepare yourself for all the activities therein. This means planning for fuel replacement, how often, what is best. Planning for recovery, can you snag a nap here? Planning when you will do homework or chores or work if that is your thing.
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