Swimmers at Barking & Dagenham Aquatics Club head to two events on Saturday 14 June. For our swimmers with some competition experience, the next leg of the Essex Mini League is upon us at Braintree Leisure Centre (host Halstead Swimming Club) and at Southbury Leisure Centre for the ESS Junior Invitational Meet hosted by Enfield Swim Squad. Many of our Emerald Squad swimmers who compete for the first time in Enfield. This handy guide is here to help make your experience smoother.
Prior to the event:
- The week prior, practicing your dives and turns to give you the best possible times on the day; train as normal; eat and rest well the day before.
- Prep your kit bag and ensure your name is on all clothing
- 2 club hats (blue) – contact kit.bdaquatics@gmail.com to order
- 2 swimming costumes or jammers
- 2 pairs of goggles
- Club tshirt & spare clothing
- Towels
- Plenty of water / liquids and healthy snacks (Read the Swim England guide and remember, meets are nut-free)
On the day:
- Start with a healthy breakfast ideally three hours prior to the meet start time such as eggs, porridge, yoghurts, whole grain toast.
- Ensure you’re on time for the warm-up sessions on the day; crucial to get your body ready for the day.
- Stay well hydrated with water and electrolytes
- Enjoy your light snacks through the day to keep your energy levels up and bring something to do whilst you’re in between events
- Your muscles are the hungriest after the event. Recover with carbohydrates and protein 30 minutes post the event with a protein shake and/ or banana.
- End the day with a protein rich dinner to replenish your energy stores and rebuild muscle
Preparing mentally:
It’s normal to feel anxious. Practise deep breathing techniques to calm your mind; visualise your strokes remembering what you’ve already practised many times before; set realistic goals – your early meets are all about gaining the experience and enjoying it. Most of all, remember to cheer on your team!!