1. Sports

Discuss in my forum

Swim Words for Faster Swimming

Power Swim Words for Swimmers

By , About.com Guide

Swimmers can say a few words while in the swimming pool and make a difference in how they swim? What you think or say while you swim in a race changes what happens in the race. Swimmers benefit - and can swim faster - by applying a little sports psychology. Use positive, powerful words and affirmations in the present tense (not "I am going to be fast" but "I am fast") to build a strong self-image and achieve swimming success.

Some of the power words I use regularly include:

  • "smooth... strong..." on alternate arm pulls when I am cruising
  • "smooth... smooth..." when I am rushing things
  • "strong... strong..." when I feel a bit tired
  • "hip... hip..." when I feel like I am not getting enough body rotation
  • "steady... steady..." when I start too fast in a race or practice set, or if I let negative thoughts creep in to the mix
  • And sometimes I just sing a song or repeat some lyrics (lucky for me - or maybe for them - no one can hear when I do this!)

Here are a few other ideas to get you started:

  • Strong
  • Now
  • I feel good
  • Smooth
  • Power
  • Roll
  • Flow
  • Stretch
  • Easy
  • Relax
  • Reach
  • Go
Swim On!

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.