The Phelps Perspective: Lessons in Excellence and Determination
Michael Phelps, also known as "The Flying Fish," is a name that resonates with excellence and dominance in the world of swimming. Here are 5 things we can learn from Phelps.
1. Unmatched Work Ethic
Michael Phelps's unmatched work ethic was a defining characteristic that propelled him to unprecedented heights in the world of swimming. From an early age, Phelps exhibited an unwavering dedication to his craft. His work ethic was instilled in him through years of disciplined training, relentless pursuit of perfection, and a deep passion for the sport. Phelps would often spend countless hours in the pool, pushing himself to his physical and mental limits.
An example of his extraordinary work ethic was his grueling training regimen leading up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Phelps embarked on a mission to win a record-breaking eight gold medals. To achieve this feat, he pushed himself through intense training sessions, swimming over 80,000 meters each week, and even incorporating weightlifting and dryland exercises into his routine. Phelps' work ethic not only set him apart from his competitors but also became a testament to the power of unwavering commitment and perseverance.
“I wanted to do something that nobody had ever done before and that started with a dream and a goal. I wanted to be the greatest of all time. I went five straight years without missing a single day of workout. 365 days a year, every single day I was working.”
2. Mental Fortitude
Michael Phelps's mental fortitude was exemplified in a remarkable fashion during the 2016 Rio Olympics. In the 200m butterfly final, Phelps faced fierce competition from his longtime rival, Chad le Clos of South Africa. Seeking to avenge his previous loss to le Clos in the same event at the 2012 London Olympics, Phelps found himself trailing as they approached the final turn.
With an incredible display of mental strength, Phelps unleashed an astonishing burst of speed in the last 50 meters, out-touching le Clos by a mere four-hundredths of a second to claim the gold medal. This moment showcased Phelps's unwavering focus, resilience, and ability to thrive under immense pressure. As he reflected on his mental preparation, Phelps shared, "It's not how you start, but how you finish. It's not what you think, it's what you do." This quote encapsulates his mindset of staying composed, executing his race plan, and delivering when it mattered the most. Phelps's mental fortitude in the face of intense competition solidified his status as an Olympic legend and served as an inspiration to athletes worldwide.
3. Versatility and Range
Michael Phelps's versatility and range in swimming were truly unrivelled. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to excel in a wide array of swimming disciplines, showcasing his versatility as a world-class athlete. Phelps was not confined to a single stroke or distance, but instead, he conquered multiple events with unmatched dominance. Whether it was the explosive speed of the 100m butterfly, the grueling endurance of the 400m individual medley, or the precision and power required in relay races, Phelps consistently displayed his exceptional talent across the swimming spectrum. His versatility was evident in his ability to adapt his technique and strategy to suit the specific demands of each event. With his tall stature, long arms, and strong kicks, Phelps harnessed his physical attributes to their fullest potential, allowing him to conquer different strokes and distances.
His historic performance in the 2008 Beijing Olympics alone can be an example of his versatility, where he won gold medals in the 100m butterfly, 200m butterfly, 200m individual medley, and various relay events. Phelps's ability to dominate in multiple disciplines solidified his legacy as the most versatile swimmer of his time and showcased his exceptional talent, dedication, and adaptability in the sport of swimming.
4. Physical Attributes
Michael Phelps possessed a set of insane physical attributes that played a pivotal role in his remarkable performances in the pool. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, Phelps had a wingspan of 6 feet 7 inches, which gave him a significant advantage in swimming. His long arms allowed him to generate more power and cover more distance with each stroke, giving him a clear edge over his competitors. Additionally, Phelps had size 14 feet, which acted as effective propellers, aiding his propulsion through the water.
His large feet provided an increased surface area for powerful kicks, enabling him to maintain speed and efficiency. Moreover, Phelps had a flexible and slender body with an elongated torso, which allowed him to maintain a streamlined position in the water and minimize drag. These physical attributes, combined with his relentless training and technical expertise, allowed Phelps to maximize his potential in the pool. His extraordinary physical attributes were truly a blessing that contributed to his exceptional performances and made him a force to be reckoned with in the world of swimming.
I’m aware physical attributes isn’t something anyone has much control over and I would be a liar to say they do not play a huge part especially in swimming so I have included this section here. Even if you do not have the advantageous physical abilities of Michael Phelps you can still strive to achieve good in swimming if that is your sport. And remember, Phelps couldn’t do it with just his physical ability alone. He kept himself in remarkable shape which you can do too.
5. Competitive drive
Michael Phelps's competitive drive and unyielding desire for greatness were at the core of his extraordinary success as a swimmer. From a young age, Phelps possessed an insatiable hunger to be the best, constantly seeking new challenges and pushing himself to new limits. His unrelenting competitive spirit was exemplified by his pursuit of record-breaking achievements.
A notable example occurred during the 2004 Athens Olympics when Phelps set out to surpass Mark Spitz's record of seven gold medals won in a single Olympics. Despite facing formidable competition and enduring grueling race schedules, Phelps relentlessly pursued his goal. In the end, he not only equaled but exceeded Spitz's record, clinching a phenomenal eight gold medals, a feat that had never been accomplished before. This showed Phelps's unwavering determination, mental toughness, and unwavering focus on achieving greatness. His competitiveness and desire to push the boundaries of what was believed possible continue to inspire athletes worldwide to chase their own dreams and strive for excellence.
Retirement
The retirement of the legendary Michael Phelps marked the end of an era in the world of swimming. With an illustrious career spanning four Olympic Games, Phelps cemented his status as the most decorated Olympian of all time, capturing a staggering 23 gold medals. Following the 2016 Rio Olympics, Phelps decided to hang up his goggles and shift his focus to other endeavors. His retirement left a void in the sport, as fans and aspiring athletes alike acknowledged the irreplaceable legacy he left behind. However, Phelps's impact extends far beyond the pool. He continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of swimmers, emphasizing the importance of hard work, discipline, and mental fortitude. While Phelps may have retired from competitive swimming, his influence and extraordinary achievements will forever remain etched in the annals of sporting history. What a f*cking beast.