This week’s Speedo Tip of the Week comes from University of Toledo coach Lars Jorgensen. A former Olympian who has led swimmers to six Mid-American Conference championships, Jorgensen offers athletes advice for returning to shape quickly in preseason training. 

Jorgensen’s Tip:

Preseason workouts should be designed to prepare you for more intense and specific workouts that will occur later in the season.  I like to focus on three areas of development during the first month of the season: physical fitness, stroke technique and aerobic development. 

Running, cycling, or other forms of cardio cross training are good alternatives in the preseason to expedite your fitness level.  Basic land exercises like push-ups, pull-ups and core exercises are great to insure that your body is prepared for the season.  During this time in the pool, focus primarily on your technique and building your aerobic system so that it is prepared for more intense training that might occur later in the season. 

This is also a great time of the year to think about your goals for the season. Break your season down into segments and have specific goals during each of those periods.  This will give you a greater opportunity to reach your final goals at end of the season.

A focused preseason training program that combines fitness, technique and mental preparation will help you produce the performances that you’re looking for at the end of the season. These principles apply to both Olympic-level athletes and to anyone who truly wishes to maximize their full athletic potential.