Swimming is a sport which takes years of practice to even begin to understand concepts like technique and racing strategies. That is why a large portion of swimmers have started from a young age, and have grown up surrounded by the sport. For instance, I joined my current swim team at the age of six. Fast forward a dozen years and here I am today, getting ready to head to a university league. That is two thirds of my life spent going to practices, racing at meets, and learning the ropes. I have come to learn that there are a few telltale signs which show that you have been a swimmer for the majority of your life…
1. First and foremost, your team is your second family. You live together at away meets and during training camps. Thanks to morning practices, you know who is definitely not a morning person, and who gets cranky if they miss a nap. You share (many) meals together, whether it’s pre-workout snacks or team dinners. You know one another’s best qualities and worst habits.
2. Much like the team mates who become like family, the pool you train at becomes your home away from home. You know it like the back of your hand, have memorized every crack at the bottom of the pool and every inch of the ceiling. You have the inside scoop on the best…
