(Temporary Backup) THE “L” WORD

Over the years I have watched many swimmers walk away from big races with one of two thoughts dancing in their minds.  One is “I won”, the sense of accomplishment, or two “I lost”, the sense of failure.  A better way of viewing the results is, either you won the race or you learned from the race and as soon as you can wrap your head around that concept you will be in a better place to make some incredible strides during this process.  

So maybe you didn’t hit your goal time, but is it because you had an off day or are there aspects of your race that need some work.  The approach one needs to take is, not that I lost but what can I learn from this race.  

One big area that I like to watch at meet is what you are doing before you step up on the block.  Are you dressed warmly or just standing there letting your muscles get cold and tight, are watching the scoreboard and the races prior to yours, in other words are you tuned into the meet and prepared to race.  What’s the big deal?  The fastest part of your race is about to happen, and the question is, Are you ready to explode off that block with a quick reaction.