Training is preparation for a future performance.  Proper training is preparation for a future success.  One must learn something from each practice session.  This learning should take place both mentally and physically.

Learn to set goals (that are realistic).  Without a goal to work towards, losing one’s interest and direction becomes easy.  All goals should be based upon your present performance level and future commitment.  Goals that are set too high can cause you to lose interest.  To be safe, set step goals.  Achieving goals helps build confidence.

Goals provide the reason for the season.  They are the link between practice and competition.  As one swimmer put it, “A goal is something I have not done yet, but I am planning to do.”  Therefore they need to be personal and challenging.  But remember, keep them just out of reach, not out of sight.

Over a long period of time, the individuals who swim and train the hardest will win the most races.  Some swimmers have more natural ability than others.  Sometimes this is a disadvantage.  These swimmers rely on their ability and forget training.

This can be an area where parental involvement will be best served.  Swimming requires a degree of active parent involvement normally not found in other sports.  If parents demonstrate their respect for their swimmer by becoming involved in putting on and attending swim meets, as opposed to playing chauffer to practice and that is it, then the swimmer knows he/she counts, and these can be parents of swimmers who benefit the most from the competitive swimming experience.  These are ideal swim parents.  Once these ideal swim parents have been shown that what’s being asked of them is reasonable and that everyone else is being asked to do their share, then the jobs at hosting or attending a swim meet aren’t too burdensome.  This is the duty and function of the COAST Parents Club.  When everyone does a little, no one has to do a lot.