Blog 1465: Habits

As humans we are creatures of habit. Therefore it is vital we create good ones. Arriving early for training or competition so a proper bloodflow can be done. Making sure we stay hydrated and well fueled. Behavior at all times to be respectful and of high standards. Listening and doing what your coach tells you to do. Turning up to each training session with a positive attitude knowing that at the end of it you will be better than you were before it. Attending all available training sessions including mornings. These are all simple habits that should be a minimum for any swimmer, habits like goal setting and keeping upto date log books and actually handing them are additional habits for any swimmer wishing to progress further. As coaches we constantly remind swimmers of these habits, as parents you need to support the coaches and make sure these habits are upheld by your swimmers. Those swimmers with these habits, have progressed amazingly over the past 6 months and will continue to do so. A great saying I like to use is "Success depends on backbone, not wishbone" This means simply wishing for something to happen will not make it happen, you have to work for it. By following these simple guidelines and finding a reason to do something not an excuse not to do it, you will make giant strides towards your goals. Take morning training for example, we have changed the times of Sunday training to encourage more swimmers to attend, the numbers have barely gone up. We have people turning up presently who live and go to work or school from Burton, Swadlincote and the other side of Nottingham, its a simple case of being organised and determined to do it. Get your bag ready the night before and your clothes ready so you can go straight to work or school from training, along with food and a drink for afterwards. Remember schools are given instruction to support any county level athlete in training and will allow, lateness, time off and additional food intake because of training or competition needs, all you have to do is speak to your schools and let them know. We as a club can provide evidence for the school if required. This is not a moan or rant but an attempt to encourage more of you to be the best you can be, as after all that is what any coach wants.