Swimming World Magazine Offers Five Tips for a Successful

Swimming World Magazine contributor Summer Finke has outlined five key approaches for swimmers to begin their competitive season effectively. The two-time U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier emphasizes building sustainable habits over seeking immediate perfection.

Set Goals and Focus on Daily Actions

Finke advises swimmers to set and write down major seasonal goals, such as qualifying for a championship meet or breaking a time barrier. She stresses, however, that the focus must shift to daily, controllable actions. These include showing up to practice with intention, working on specific technical skills like turns, and managing recovery through nutrition and sleep. Big goals provide direction, but consistent small efforts are what achieve them.

Avoid Rushing the Training Process

Progress in swimming is not always linear, especially early in a season. Finke notes that swimmers may feel slower or more sluggish than expected as their bodies adapt to increased training loads, dryland work, and school schedules. She reassures that not feeling like a championship-ready swimmer in September is normal. The key is to give oneself permission to build fitness and skill gradually over the months.

Stop the Comparison Game

Comparing one's own start to a teammate's success can drain motivation. Finke points out that others may have already achieved cuts, moved into senior groups, or be attracting collegiate attention. She argues that another swimmer's success does not diminish one's own potential. Every athlete develops at a different pace, and learning to focus on one's own path is a critical skill for long-term development in and out of the pool.

Build Championship Habits Early

Success at major meets is built on routines established months in advance. Finke suggests that instead of attempting a complete overhaul, swimmers should pick a few key habits and become consistent with them. Examples include packing gear the night before morning practice, bringing a recovery snack, dedicating time to mobility work, or noting a daily positive from practice. These small, repeated actions accumulate into significant advantages over a full season.

Finke concludes by reminding swimmers to remember the joy of the sport during inevitable hard days. She highlights the value of team camaraderie, the thrill of a long-sought personal best, and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges. A successful season, she writes, is built slowly through each practice and habit.