Pre- Swim Meet Tips

Swim meets are a big deal.  They are a place to display your talent and prove that all of the hard work you put in at practices paid off.  I spend what seems to be a million hours in the pool each week, so I would like to compete well.  Besides practices, there are other things that go into preparation for a meet.  Some swimmers have pre- meet rituals while others just like things done a certain way.  Below are some things I do, or my friends do, to prepare for a meet.  I suggest trying some to see what works for you! :)

• Eat Pasta.  Pasta is high in carbohydrates and low in protein.  The carbohydrates provide energy for your muscles and nervous system, and fuel for your metabolism
• Pack your bag the night before.  Pack everything.  Pack towels, an extra shirt, shorts, and your team's warm- up jacket and pants.  Double check that your goggles, bathing cap, and bathing suit are packed in your swim bag.
• Make sure you have enough Gatorade and Powerbars for the meet.  Check the night before that you have enough liquids and snacks for the meet.  No one wants to go to the grocery store for these things early in the morning.
• Visualize.  This can be done the night before, the day of the meet, or minutes before your race.  Sit down, relax, and visualize your race.  You have the ability to control how your race will play out.  Many people believe that if they visualize their perfect race, their mind will program itself to perform that perfect race.
• Go to bed early.  Get your eight hours of sleep so that you're well rested the next day.  You don't want to be sleepy when you step up on the blocks.
• Eat breakfast.  I don't think it's wise to swim on an empty stomach.  But, I also don't advise anyone to eat 5 pancakes, 6 slices of french toast, and bacon.  I usually eat eggs and toast or oatmeal and a banana.  Something light and healthy will do the trick.
• Stretch.  Some swimmers are more relaxed and loose after they stretch.  This can be helpful if you're feeling tense the night before or the morning of the swim meet.
• Relax.  Swimming is supposed to be fun.  Relax and enjoy yourself.

I follow most of these tips, and I find them all very helpful.  Try some out and see what works best so that you can swim well, fast, and swiftly at your next meet! :)