Deep Dive: How Practice Attendance and Punctuality Shapes Swimming Success
Many years ago, I observed a swimmer (14) on deck at some of the national level competitions. He was exceptionally talented for his age, so I approached his coach, curious about his training.
According to his coach, from a young age, he showed exceptional dedication to the sport as was evident in his success. But beyond his training, his coach said there were a few other factors that were part of his routine: he attended practice sessions religiously, never missing a session unless absolutely necessary. His punctuality and commitment to practice helped him build the discipline and endurance required for competitive swimming. That swimmer? Michael Phelps. And while not everyone will achieve the same level of success as Michael, the key elements that lay the groundwork for his success are universal: regular, prompt attendance at swim practice.
In the world of competitive swimming, success isn’t only determined by talent or technique. While physical prowess and skill are essential, they are often supported by less visible virtues: attendance and punctuality. I’ve witnessed firsthand how these qualities can transform an athlete's career and life.
Consistency is Key
I frequently get approached to look at a swimmer’s technique, or to talk about why the athlete’s times are not improving. The secret? It all begins with consistent practice attendance. Swimming, like any other sport, demands regular training to refine strokes, build endurance, and enhance speed. Missing sessions can set a swimmer back significantly. The muscle memory developed through repetition of quality of movement can diminish, leading to a decrease in performance and compromise health. Consistency ensures that progress isn't just maintained but continually evolving and improved upon. I can also argue that committing fully to your coach’s well-designed season plan without interruption from conflicting programs or activities is paramount for health and performance success.
The Discipline of Punctuality
Punctuality goes together with attendance. Arriving on time for training sessions shows an athlete’s dedication and respect for their coach, teammates, and the sport itself. It sets a tone of seriousness and commitment. Moreover, punctuality minimizes disruptions and allows for a full warm-up, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring that you and your teammates can make the most of every minute in the pool.
Practices are designed, by competent coaches, for you to perform at specific times. Those practices can also teach you so much about when your body is ready to swim fast. I know this sounds crazy, but that can play a big role at swim meets. Missing part of the warm-up really means that you, and your coach really don’t know exactly when, how much stress, where the heart rate should be... when you're ready to swim FAST! You're setting up a guessing game for performance.
Consider your working relationship with your coach. I speak of the respect for their time. For the fact that the coach has spent time prior to practice designing specifically something that will make you faster, or a better swimmer... and you show up when you feel like it, it simply shows very little respect for their time and preparation. Honestly, as a coach, I will have little or no respect for you.
When you arrive on time, it’s not just about completing a set workout—it’s about telling yourself, “I am committed to this. I am dedicated to getting better, no matter the challenges.” This discipline extends beyond the pool. It influences how you show up in other areas of your life, helping you develop a mindset that prioritizes growth and consistency.
Building Strong Team Dynamics
Regular attendance and punctuality foster a sense of team spirit and camaraderie. When swimmers show up consistently and on time, they build trust and dependability within the team. This cohesion is crucial during relays or team events where mutual reliance is paramount. A team that trains together thrives together, pushing each other to new heights and celebrating collective victories.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Beyond the physical advantages, consistent attendance and punctuality also provide significant mental and emotional benefits. They instill a sense of routine and stability, which can be particularly comforting in the high-pressure environment of competitive sports. Swimmers who adhere to a strict schedule often experience less anxiety and are better able to manage stress, leading to improved overall performance.
Long-term Impact
The habits of attendance and punctuality extend beyond the pool. They shape an athlete’s character and work ethic, influencing their approach to academics, careers, and personal relationships. These qualities are universally valued and can open doors to numerous opportunities beyond competitive swimming.
As a transformational coach, I emphasize the importance of these often-overlooked qualities. Consistency in attendance and punctuality not only enhance a swimmer’s performance but also contribute to their comprehensive development. In the fast-paced lanes of life and sport, these foundational virtues can be the difference between mediocrity and excellence.
