6 Beneficial Habits Developed By Swimmers
By Evangelia Vasilakis, Swimming World College Intern
Like many athletes, swimmers develop habits that benefit them in their daily lives. Many swimmers carry out these habits unintentionally or they often practice them to live a better and easier life. These habits range from in the pool to out of the pool, but all are a benefit to the swimmer in the end. From waking up to going to bed, swimmers have the best habits.
1. Waking Up Early
Photo Courtesy: Flickr
Swimmers wake up early. At all ages, swimmers often have to be up before the sun even rises. Many college and high school teams practice before class. This means that swimmers get into the habit of waking up early. Swimmers use this even when they do not have to be in the pool, because they know eventually they will have a morning practice. Many club teams and summer leagues also take advantage of early morning practices in the summer months knowing that swimmers have work or want to spend the day in the sun. Swimmers use this habit of waking up early to get a jumpstart on their day.
2. Eating Healthy
Swimmers know they have to have a healthy body to perform well in the sport. A swimmer’s habit of eating healthy meals is something that sticks with them forever. They know how it affects their body and they know to stay healthy, they need to eat healthy. After all, our energy and strength comes from what we eat.
3. Sportsmanship
One underrated habit I often see is a swimmer’s understanding of sportsmanship. Swimmers of all ages congratulate their competitors and are happy for others’ successes. That translates to life in and out of the water. Athletes will be the first to congratulate all their competitors, whether it is in school, work or practice.
4. Being Prepared
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Swimmers have so much they need to prepare for. Their lists of things they need for practice and meets are endless. From goggles to towels. Every swimmer has a habit of being prepared. They know the feeling of not having something they need, and never want it to happen again. Oftentimes, athletes bring more than they actually need to ensure they are ready to go.
5. Sleeping Habits
Swimmers value the importance of sleep. Being that they have to often wake up early, they fall asleep early, too. They know that they need a full night’s rest to be able to preform to their fullest ability. Swimmers know the best ways to improve their skills, and sleep is one of them. When a swimmer gets a good night of sleep, their mind and body are ready for the new stresses the day brings. Oftentimes, practices can be mentally challenging and a clear and well-rested mind and body will help them get through it.
6. Self-Confidence
Most importantly, athletes have self-confidence. They know they do everything they need to do to be the best they can be. They work hard, and believe in themselves. It ranges from practicing or racing to the classroom, or in the workplace. Swimmers are often confident of their abilities, and find that they trust their training.
All commentaries are the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Swimming World Magazine nor its staff.