Freestyle Media

Sonny Trigg, the one and only SwimSuitGuy, joins Helen Gorman to preview the 2025 National Masters Short Course Championships in Sheffield.

From record contenders to legendary names and inspiring competitors, we explore the stories behind the swimmers who refuse to slow down.

And even if you’re not planning to be poolside in Sheffield, there’s plenty of swim talk, insider gossip, and a splash of humour to keep you entertained from the first whistle to the final touch.

In this episode of the Masters Swimming Podcast, mother and daughter duo, Heidi and Vivien Bell-West, share their experiences along with their family legacy connected to Captain Matthew Webb, the first person to swim the English Channel. Preferring to sprint rather than swim long distances, Heidi has won global medals and set new national records this year in the 55-59 category. 

Vivien, a mum of nine children, relies on 80 years’ experience of participation and coaching, and regular gardening, to keep her speed up. 

This delightful conversation also covers early years swimming in Jamacia, being a swim...

In this episode of the Master Swimming Podcast, host Helen Gorman speaks with Chris Harris, a sports scientist from Precision Fuel and Hydration, about the importance of hydration for swimmers. 

They discuss how sweat rates differ in swimming compared to land sports, the role of electrolytes, and effective hydration strategies. Chris explains the impact of dehydration on performance, the causes of muscle cramps, and the effects of caffeine on hydration levels and athletic performance. 

The conversation also touches on hydration needs for different age groups and the importance of listening to your body regarding thirst an...

What happens when your shoulder suddenly goes ping, and the only way back to the pool is through surgery? For many swimmers, years of relentless arm rotations can take their toll, leading to chronic overuse injuries.

In this episode, record-breaking masters swimmers Nicola Latty and Eddie Riach discuss their journeys through surgery, rehab, and the determination it takes to return to training and racing at a high level.

From navigating expert medical advice to staying mentally resilient, they share insights into the setbacks, small victories, and smart training adjustments that shaped their comebacks. Whether you’re...

In this episode of The Masters Swimming Podcast, Helen Gorman speaks to Jeff Commings, a Masters World Champion and former USA National Team swimmer. They cover everything from being thrown into the water as a four-year-old to getting a full scholarship at the University of Texas and breaking masters world records.

He has overcome personal challenges, including being a black, gay swimmer in college in the 1990s and more recently, cancer surgery – and he talks about his autobiography, 'Odd Man Out.'

Jeff shares experiences from his time training under legendary coach Eddie Reese, working as...

In this episode of the Master Swimming Podcast, Helen Gorman interviews Professor Greg Whyte, a world-renowned sports physiologist and master swimmer. They discuss the progression in swimming and human performance in general, the importance of sports science, and how aging can be managed through proper training and nutrition.

The conversation emphasises the significance of enjoyment in sports and the importance of maintaining muscle mass and strength as we age.

Greg shares his Olympic Modern Pentathlon memories, masters swimming experiences and insights from his experiences working with BBC Comic Relief – including whether comedians can maintain their hu...

In this episode of the Masters Swimming Podcast, host Helen Gorman speaks to professional triathlete, Andy Horsfall-Turner about his journey from being a distance swimmer to a professional triathlete. Andy is a Level 3 swimming and triathlon coach with experience of coaching junior, senior and masters swimmers as well as triathletes.

Andy underlines that anyone taking part in sport as an adult needs to have a strong passion for what they are doing if they want to be successful, and that there’s no getting away from volume training if you’re a distance swimmer.

They disc...

We invite three more swimmers into the studio to tell their stories from the World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore. 

Matthew Brooks, Jo Corben and Kath Tunnicliffe present different perspectives on their performances, travel adventures and the event in general. Hear about Matthew's insanely fast relay split as well as his championship record setting 50m freestyle in the 35-39 age group, and listen to Jo talk about how having team mates around helped elevate her performances to claim four gold medals in the 55-59 age group.

Kath Tunnicliffe concludes with stories of adventure and how s...

In this celebratory 150th episode of the Master Swimming Podcast, hosts Helen Gorman and Joe Malone reflect on three years of the show, and the recent World Masters Championships in Singapore. 

Guests John Chambers, Verity Dobbie and Dom Polling add their perspectives on success in Singapore - which was one of the best Championships to date with fantastic pools, incredible swimmers and an amazing host city.

We speak to Nathan Oxford about shoulder health and injury prevention in masters swimmers. 

He explains the importance of recovery, prehab, and strength training in preventing injuries, as well as key exercises to build shoulder resilience and improve performance in the pool. He emphasises the need for consistent prehab routines and the significance of assessing shoulder function to maintain health and performance in swimming - and offers some free resources to help identify areas for development.

Nathan is a friend of the show, former international swimmer, a qualified strength and conditioning coach and a Great B...

Helen Gorman chats to Lara Ferguson, a Scottish three-time Paralympic swimmer and current Masters swimmer in the 45-49 age group. They discuss Lara's journey from her early days in competitive swimming to her international experiences, including winning two Paralympic medals at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games. 

Lara shares insights into the classification system for para-athletes, her transition to Masters swimming, and her current training regime. The conversation also touches on the future of para swimming within the Masters framework, the new age adjusted points system for para swimmers and the importance of inclusivity in the sport.

Helen Gorman interviews Arthur Lowe, a remarkable swimmer who has been breaking British records in the 90-94 age group. Arthur, who is joined by his wife, Marion, shares his journey in swimming, from early days of being sent by his mother into Birmingham to have a bath to his current training and record breaking. He emphasises the importance of technique and enjoyment in the sport.

Arthur reflects on his Army career and participating in international events, while also offering valuable advice for aspiring master swimmers. This podcast is guaranteed to make you smile and laugh along with...

Sports psychologist and British record breaker, Helen Davis joins us to chat about managing nerves and performance anxiety in competitive swimming. We discuss visualization techniques, the difference between threat and challenge mindsets, and how to set realistic performance goals. 

The conversation with host, Helen Gorman covers strategies for staying grounded after success as well as bouncing back from poor performances. 

With the World Aquatics Masters Championships looming, we get excited for upcoming races and consider the privilege of competing at a high level. The concepts in this podcast can be applied to any event, so en...

In this episode of the Masters Swimming podcast, you'll find out everything you need to know about travelling to and competing at the World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore.

Guests Nadine Day and Martin Bennell offer insights into everything from where to get the best coffee to detailed information about the organisation of the Championships. In her position as Chair of the volunteer World Aquatics Masters Group, Nadine has great insight that will help you prepare for your trip, whilst Martin, who has worked in the city for many years, has all of the local knowledge about...

In this episode of the Masters Swimming podcast, we speak to Gina Heyn about her achievements and record breaking in the 40-44 age group. 

We discuss competing at the Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships, her decision to change clubs and compete for Woking SC and her trip to New York to support a friend swimming around Manhattan Island. 

Thinking about the future, we consider the prospect of swimming ten relays at the National Short Course Championships and muse about the distant prospect of competing at age 90.

The conversation turns to sports politics, in pa...

East Leeds swimmer and experienced coach, Simon Ward joins us to explore performance traits that everyone can adopt without spending additional time or money.

Simon calls on his experience of having coached the Olympic Champion Brownlee Brothers in their early career, to consider the key traits of successful athletes, the importance of a positive attitude, body language, and being coachable. He shares insights on how masters athletes can enhance their longevity and performance through smart training, preparation, and maintaining a strong work ethic. 

The conversation also touches on practical tips for dealing with jet lag a...

In this episode, host Helen Gorman and guest Alex Thurston discuss equipment for power and speed training, and the importance of it for masters swimmers. They explore various types of equipment that can help enhance performance, including fins, paddles, parachutes, and socks. 

Alex shares his personal experiences and achievements in swimming, which have included European Masters gold, a world record relay and an English Channel relay. He also shares insights into coaching and training techniques based on his experiences of coaching at Nottingham University and Nottingham Leander Masters Swimming Club.

This conversation emphasises the significance o...

The British Masters Championships saw five individual and one relay world record shattered in a display of speed and stamina at the iconic London 2012 Olympic pool.

Among the standout stars were sprinters Helen Sadler and Barry Murphy, who etched their names into the record books in spectacular fashion. Helen delivered a dramatic finale to the meet, saving her fastest swim for the very last event, smashing a two-year-old world record in the 55–59 age group 50m freestyle. Meanwhile, Barry made a casual trip from Ireland for what he called a “chill weekend,” only to surpass his own world record...

From representing Great Britain as a junior to making history as the Caribbean’s first openly gay international swimmer, Michael Gunning’s journey is one of resilience, pride, and transformation. After missing out on the Tokyo Olympics, Michael turned disappointment into purpose, taking on a leading role with Pride House for the Paris 2024 and LA 2028 Games.

In Drowning Prevention Week, we discuss the fact that 80% of Black children in England cannot swim, a statistic that not only endangers lives but also leads to underrepresentation in elite and masters swimming.

We explore why so few Black swim...

Helen Gorman is joined by Sonny Trigg aka ‘The Swimsuit Guy’ to preview the British Masters Championships. Set at London’s iconic Olympic venue, this sold-out showdown promises personal bests galore, and we suggest some of the must-watch events.

Sonny also brings his trademark swimwear expertise to the podcast, revealing the latest innovations in performance suits… or indeed why there is a lack of invention this year. Plus, we spotlight some standout performances from both international elite and masters swimmers making waves on the road to worlds in Singapore.

What's in your swim bag could be the key to unlocking smoother, faster strokes. In this episodes, experienced coach and swimmer, Dan Bullock reveals his top three pieces of training equipment that every swimmer should be using to boost efficiency and refine technique.

Dan doesn't just teach technique, he lives and breathes it. So much so, he teamed up with a former Formula One aerodynamicist to design his own innovative paddle. 

From clever kit combos to cutting-edge upgrades, Dan shares inventive ways to supercharge your swim sessions. Whether you're chasing PBs or just want to s...

What happens when a multi world record-breaker meets the rising star who's surpassing some of her records? We sit down with backstroke star Jo Corben and 'young pretender' Kirsty Johnson to discuss their rivalry and mutual admiration.

From their training regimes in and out of the pool to sharing backstroke drills, Jo and Kirsty discuss what it takes to reach the top.

They both also run successful swim schools and discuss the highs and lows of teaching future generations of young swimmers. 

Helen Gorman asks the questions to find out how well these t...

World Masters Record Holder Rebecca Guy isn't just keeping up with the next generation, she's rising to new heights to match them. At the recent GB Aquatics Championships in Lindon, Rebecca took on a field of elite teenage swimming stars, including a world junior record holder, and powered her way to a silver medal with a lifetime best performance.

Rebecca joins Helen Gorman to share what it was like to race against rising stars of the sport, how she achieved a personal best by training for just three hours a week in the pool, and why she...

How much does it really cost to chase your swimming dreams? Liz Simpson crunches the numbers on Joe Malone’s annual spend and uncovers a surprising culprit driving up his costs - a serious goggle habit!

Would you pay anything for a personal best, or are rising expenses threatening to price swimmers out of the pool? As costs climb, is there a smarter way to save, or should we just count our blessings that we’re not paying for carbon bikes or golf green fees? Helen Gorman drives the debate to find out if Masters swimming is stil...

Helen Gorman chats to Simon Griffiths, or Mr Swimming as he should really be known. As founder of Outdoor Swimming Magazine, published author, seasoned Thames River regular, and masters swimmer with Teddington SC, Simon's life is all things aquatic. 

In this episode, he shares his vast and entertaining knowledge of the swimming world, from practical tips to the truly unexpected, like floating sofas and feedback from nudist readers. Whether you're a lane-counter in the pool or a cold-water convert, there's something to inform, inspire and make you laugh.

For more on Simon, check out Outdoor S...

Sports massage therapist and City of Sheffield masters swimmer, Ken Flett and Dom Wooldridge discuss recovery with Helen Gorman.

How can masters swimmers optimise recovery? Do we need to rush out and buy an ice bath, order some inflatable compression trousers and block book weekly massages?

Ken also discusses his recovery from recent prostate cancer surgery, including a visit from Sheffield's relay rivals, Basingstoke Bluefins to help complete a charity fundraising challenge. 

As the countdown begins for entries to open for the British Masters Swimming Championships, Helen Gorman dives into conversation with Jonathan Saunders to preview what's in store at this year's premier long course showdown in London this June.

With Jonathan's inside perspective from the British Masters Swimming Committee, tune in for discussion on the future of Masters swimming, including the recent split from Aquatics GB.

We're al;so celebrating the achievements of Masters swimming nationwide, from the latest on the Masters Decathlon and Inter Counties to the jaw-dropping number of records already shattered in 2025.

After coaching Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee, Paul Eaglestone decided to put his methods to paper and write a book. Today he chats to Helen Gorman.

As a former swimmer and masters swimmer himself, he brings the book to life with stories from a life spent watching some of the best swimmers and coaches in the world. Listen in to find out how you might gain some free speed in the pool and maybe order the book too - Free Speed, by Paul Eaglestone.

Judy Brown and Laura Kerrigan join Helen Gorman to discuss breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and successful returns to the pool. 

Their experiences are very different, but they share a determination and positivity that has helped them flourish after cancer.

Judy shares stories about her records and incredible recent success in the 60-64 age group, and Laura explains why she's setting so many personal best times alongside helping to set up the new Crystal Palace Masters Club and managing the Surrey team at the Inter-Counties.

Michelle Ware and Dominic Wooldridge join Helen Gorman for a discussion on racing disasters.

This light-hearted look at past mistakes includes botched dives, malfunctioning equipment and backstroke navigation issues.

These things happen to everyone - even masters world champions!

Award-winning coach Tony Corben and AP Race's Kevin Pickard discuss the rapid evolution of South Downs Trojan SC. In this conversation, we cover the recent visit of the AP Race team to Trojan, explore coaching philosophies, and step into the new Freestyle Media Confession Booth for some exclusive coaching insights.

Plus, hear one of the toughest sets that masters world record-breaker, Jo Corben does, and get an inside look at one of Adam Peaty's gruelling sets...do you dare try them yourself? 

Hosted by Helen Gorman.

Mum of four, Julie Howe, chats to Helen Gorman about pregnancy, motherhood and swimming 400 IM at the National Masters Championships just three months after giving birth to her fourth child. 

Hear about Julie's past as a Commonwealth Games athlete in Melbourne in 2006, her decision to step away from competitive swimming at a young age, and her passion for science. Discover what motivated Julie to resume her swimming journey as a member of Woking Swimming Club and how she balances training with her busy life.

Helen Gorman meets up with Exeter-based fitness trainer Del Pitcher to explore whether CrossFit and Hyrox can enhance performance in masters swimming.

They compare these to other forms of land-based workouts and discuss why swimmers often excel in the CrossFit Games and Hyrox events.

Drawing from his background in military and police fitness, as well as his experience in swimming, Del explains how CrossFit could fill a gap in overall fitness and wellbeing, whilst also addressing potential drawbacks.

Coventry Masters swimmer Martyn Brunt dives into the eco-side of swimming with Helen Gorman, proving that every little choice counts - from holding onto the same kickboard for two decades to embracing the simple joy of a train ride to Sheffield.

They explore sustainability, from pools warmed by data centres and landills to medals crafted by recycled electronics. Plus, could sticking with your worn-out race gear actually give you mental edge? 

Tune in for a fresh take on how swimmers can make waves without making waste.

Meet Sam Lawman, a powerhouse in the pool and a key player in East Leeds' world-record-breaking relay teams. 

Whether he's representing Great Britain in sport lifesaving or dominating underwater fin events, his speed and skills are exceptional. 

But Sam isn't just fast, he's got the brains to match it. With a Master's in Sport Science and a future in physiotherapy, he offers expert insights to help athletes get faster. 

Tune in as Helen Gorman uncovers top tips, training secrets, and the science behind speed.

Kat Greenslade reflects on an elite career that saw her win Commonwealth and European Championship medals. Her career was building perfectly towards the 2020 Olympic Trials until Covid and a freak injury hit.

Now working as a doctor, Kat explains that Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) ended her elite career but that masters swimming with Trafford Metro SC drew her back to the pool with incredible success in 2024.

Cate Jackson broke a British masters record exactly one year after major surgery to remove a brain tumour. She tells her story openly and eloquently. 

Enjoy memories from swimming at Millfield School and reaching an individual final representing Guernsey at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia. Hosted by Helen Gorman. 

Three intrepid ice swimmers chat to Helen Gorman about their success at the Ice Swimming World Championships in Malveno, Italy. 

Jonathan Saunders, Wendy Figures and Lili May Mustoe prevailed in nearly freezing water, and are keen to encourage others to give it a go! 

If the incentive of prize money doesn't persuade you, their enthusiasm might!

Olympic gold medalist (and masters world record holder), Anna Hopkin, reflects on her career and, having recently retired, discusses what comes next. She talks about the intense focus she had training in the US that helped her become one of the best sprinters in the world. Helen Gorman hosts.

Triple Olympian, Roland Lee, reflects on his Team GB, Army and Masters Swimming Career. 

Roland swam at the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Olympic Games. He reflects on unusual twists and turns that led him to Olympic selection as well as world masters records and a long career in the Army.

Helen Gorman hosts.

This week we're joined by Amanda Heath, Martin Bennell and Bob Bolton to debate what they each believe is the toughest event in swimming - hosted by Helen Gorman.

Dawn Kissack is just 0.2 off the world record for 50m freestyle in the 60-64 age group. She talks us through her training and coaching philosophy as well as her backstory from growing up in Sheffield to living in Scotland.

It's the Christmas Special Podcast for 2024! Host Helen Gorman is joined by Olly Espinasse, Joan Edwards and Joe Malone.

Thank you to everyone for listening to the podcast this year. We will be back on 7 January after a two-week Christmas break.

This week former Loughborough Head Coach Ian Hulme talks about his new venture, Signiture Swim Coaching, providing online personalised swim programmes to any swimmer. Ian spent 12 years coaching elite swimmers at Loughborough University, and guided a number of athletes to this year's Paris Olympics.

Nick Parkes has made a full recovery from a cardiac arrest at the National Masters Open Water Championships in 2023.

He tells his remarkable story, including getting back to record breaking form at the National Masters Championships in Sheffield just over a year later.

This week, Dr Conor Osborough applies his Olympic and Paralympic biomechanics experience to masters swimmers hoping to achieve speed and longevity in the pool.

Doctor and masters record holder Dom Wooldridge joins the podcast this week to talk about his training routine amid a testing career and lifestyle.

Sports Psychologist Helen Davis joins the podcast once more to talk about motivation, hosted by Helen Gorman.

Pullbuoy first came to light in 2000 thanks to founder Steve Buckley, providing a fan's eye view of British Swimming. 24 years later, it's still going strong. Steve joins Helen Gorman this week on the podcast to chat about that, and review the Masters National Championships that took place at the end of October.

Check out Pullbuoy's feature film launched in early 2024; Imogen Clark, Leaving It All In The Pool, on the website: https://www.pullbuoy.co.uk/imogen/

Glenn Smith joins the podcast this week to talk about his role in the rise of Olympic and Paralympic swimmers at Mansfield Swimming Club.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Julie Hoyle and Joe Malone to preview all the action across the weekend in Sheffield.

Rob Shaw is a record holder masters swimmer. He's also a cancer surviver. Listen to his story, hosted by Helen Gorman.

Hattie Pearson is a Radio DJ on Hits Radio. She is also a triathlete. Find out what songs get her through her swims, which songs she hates to have stuck in her head, and how she found a love for triathlon. 

This week, host Helen Gorman is joined by City of Cardiff coach Graham Wardell. They discuss the none negotiables for swimmers if they want to achieve longevity in swimming, despite life often getting in the way. 

Mentions also for Dara Torres, Florent Manaudou and Sarah Sjöström and how they have shown the way to achieving big despite their ages.

Host Helen Gorman - a world record breaststroker herself - is joined by a fellow breaststroke record holder Ian Swift of City of Sheffield Swimming Club for this week's episode.

Trafford Metro's Rebecca Lennon has had quite the journey in swimming. From a top-level 200m backstroker in her formative years, to a marathon swimmer in her adult life, she is currently training to swim the English Channel. 

Rebecca talks to host Helen Gorman.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Maggie Kelly MBE, who competed at the 1976, 1980 and 1988 Olympics. Maggie discusses her swimming career on the elite stage and her transition into masters swimming.

Host Helen Gorman is joined by Jo and Tony Corben to chat all about the Olympics, Paralympics, European Masters Champs, among other things.

Give Helen Gorman a shout out following her first hosting gig!

The Freestyle Media podcast is ending how it started, with Kath Tunnicliffe, Beth Hogg and Joe Malone talking all things swimming.

We discuss joining new swimming clubs, tailoring training, competing around the world and share our favourite memories of the last 100 episodes of the podcast.

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This week we're joined by Jonathan Saunders, masters swimmer and member of the Masters Working Group, to discuss what we know so far about the Swim England Masters Nationals Championships, following the release of the schedule for the weekend. 

This week, masters swimmer and triathlon coach John Wood joins the podcast once more to discuss when to accelerate and decelerate your training, and what to do when life gets busy but you don't want to let go of your hard work. 

From perfect training conditions, to only getting one small swim in per week, and everything in between, we've got you covered in this conversation.

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Former Great Britain Olympian and silver medallist, Siobhan-Marie O'Connor, joins the podcast this week to talk about coaching actress Daisy Ridley who stars as Trudy Ederle in Disney's Young Woman and the Sea, set to be released on 31 May 2024.

Siobhan-Marie discusses how she landed the job, what Daisy's starting base was, and the programme she undertook to help turn Daisy into a top-class swimmer. Trudy Ederle was, of course, the first women to swim the English Channel, and the film is based on those events that saw her make history in the open water.

Thank...

Masters swimmer John Griffin is on course to complete his challenge in 2024 of swimming a million metres, while aiming to raise £1 million in the process for the Cornish Air Ambulance. 

John is 70-years-of-age and has never swam this distance over a period of a year before, but wanted to set himself a lofty challenge in retirement. He lives in Cornwall and the Air Ambulance is close to his heart. Listen to John's approach, training regime and fundraising feats in this engaging chat.

If you would like to donate to John's JustGiving page, click here: https://ju...

This week, Chris Malpass of Trafford Metro joins to discuss what went into organising Trafford's first-ever masters meet - from creating a working group months in advance, to defining the schedule of events, and choosing the music to play on the day.

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Do you have to get on the blocks on a certain side? Do you have to eat a certain meal the day before? Or do you have to go to the toilet in the same cubicle each time (cough cough, Julie)? 

In this episode, Helen Sadler, Julie Hoyle and Helen Gorman discuss their race day superstitions and other crazy behaviours they know other swimmers have.

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This week on Freestyle Media, swimmers Helen Gorman, Dan Mills and Katie Moore, along with Trafford Metro coach Bob Bolton, take part in a discussion on training volume. Is there a perfect amount and, if so, what is it? 

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Amanda Heath competes in the 65-69 age category and is a serial medal winner and world champion. Records are a source of motivation for Amanda which keeps the fire burning bright for her. She considers swimming competitions a chance to compete but also spend time with her 'swimming family'. 

This is Through The Water With Amanda Heath.

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Here we go, then! Everything you need in the build up to the British Masters Championships, taking place in Swansea, Wales across three days. Host Joe Malone is joined by Jonathan Saunders, Jamie McHale and David Westcough to discuss the swimming, the travelling and the downtime across the weekend.

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This year Andy Jameson celebrates his 36th year in the commentary box, following a successful swimming career of his own that saw him win medals on the Olympic, Commonwealth, world and European stage. 

Andy is the voice you hear when tuning into the swimming on the BBC, over many years including all the major competitions. Reflecting on his time as a commentator, and the recent Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, Andy discusses some of his most memorable moments behind the mic.

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G...

After British Swimming announced its rebrand to Aquatics GB last week, Sports Reporter Nick Hope jumped on the podcast to discuss what this means for our sport and the advantages it could give the whole aquatics umbrella, including masters swimming. We also discuss Olympic Trials and, well, Easter eggs...

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Recently crowned a double World Masters Champion for the 400 and 800 freestyle in Doha, Dan Mills recalls his swimming journey that saw him become age group champion as a teenager and go on to compete at the Youth Olympics. After a year of full-time training as an 18 year old, Dan decided to head to university and study medicine, and has since competed on the masters stage, to quite an outstanding level. This is Through The Water With Dan Mills. 

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This week I speak once more to John Wood, who recently competed at a licensed meet and made the qualifying time for the 100m butterfly for Olympic Trials in April this year.

The Trials will be held at the London Aquatics Centre and John - who is 37 and last qualified for an Olympic Trials 20 years ago - hopes to enjoy the experience and take on a no-pressure mentality. 

John discusses how he's got faster over the years and how his training is simple but on point. 

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This week, Beth Hogg joins to talk about how we can make the pathway to masters swimming a more attractive proposition to age group, senior and university swimmers. Such a small percentage of swimmers 'make it', but the rest can still experience the best years of their swimming lives at masters level - breaking PBs, setting records and winning medals. 

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Ben Shaw has two passions: swimming and fashion. In 2022, he decided to merge the two and create his own brand, named Last Is Fast (LIF). 18 months on, he now sells a range of products including swimming caps, t-shirts, hoodies and more, through his website and at pop-up shops at swimming competitions. 

Ben talks about how he came to setting up his brand, how it's been going and where he plans to take it in the future. 

You can check out the website at www.lastisfast.co.uk

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This week we go through the water with British record holder in the 200m freestyle (short course) in the 35-39 age category, James Wardle. 

James grew up in a swimming family and began with the club his dad had a long affiliation with spanning upwards of 40 years. James says he wasn't always the best in training as a teenager, but knew he had ability, and went on to swim with the Loughborough University team when he studied a Politics degree there. 

Now late 30s, swimming has become about more than racing and PBs - it's a...

As our masters athletes prepare to head out to Doha, Qatar, I'm joined by Amanda Heath, Olly Espinasse and Esther Iseppi before they pack their bags and fly out for competition. 

We preview the Worlds, find out what they're swimming, what their hopes for the competition are, and if they have any plans to be tourists whilst out in Qatar.

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in 2004, Nigel Kube founded SwimTherapy, a technical analysis centre filming swimmers from all angles to help improve swimmers move through the water with more efficiency. 

Nigel was the original head coach, but that mantra has since been passed on to Jay Wilson, who has held the position for seven years. 

SwimTherapy, based in Leicester, UK, works with all swimmers, from age groupers, to masters, triathletes, and those looking to start from scratch.

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This week, Kevin Pickard joins the podcast to discuss AP Race's recent Masters Grand Prix at Moorways, Derby, as well as the up and coming one at Sunderland Aquatics Centre in March. AP Race is taking a really interesting approach to competitions and is keen to see the standards raised across the board in the sport.

Check out the recent competition in November last year with this behind the scenes video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYkEl_VAeu4

There's still time to sign up for the competition next month. You can enter here: https...

Martin Bennell, of Basingstoke Bluefins, might be mid-40s, but boy is he getting quicker and quicker every year. With a number of lifetime bests last year, he is on the cusp of a British record in the 50m breaststroke and is the current European holder of the event in the 45-49 age category.

Martin talks about his journey in swimming - how he's never taken it too seriously but loves the buzz of racing, and a new approach to training is helping him continue to get PBs. This is Through The Water With Martin Bennell.
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This week, coach Abbie Whiting and masters swimmer Ken Flett, join the podcast to discuss how many competitions and races per year they believe is the best amount.

How many competitions per year should be our 'target meets'? How many races per day is too many? Should we do sacrificial events? How many practice competitions and races should we do leading up to a target meet?

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Sports Psychologist Helen Davis joins this week to talk about the different layers of goal setting and how setting them well can manifest into a healthy mindset when getting ready to race. On the flipside, poor goal setting - or no goal setting - can lead to insecurities and feeling unsure when getting ready to race.

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Get personalised training programmes from Oxolt Strength and Conditioning by visiting www.oxolt.com

It's a new year, which means we're all thinking of ways that we can improve in the water in 2024. But time is of the essence, and many of us are already working at capacity. So, what can we do to improve on the sessions we already commit to, be that in the pool, gym or elsewhere? And how can we level up the other elements of our lives - such as diet and recovery - to get those marginal gains? Coach and swimmer, John Wood, joins to discuss. 

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On our Christmas Special Podcast, we're joined by Rebecca Lennon, Eleanor Grimes and Jonathan Saunders. We talk about a mixture of things such as swimming-related Christmas activity, reflect on our favourite swimming events this year, and decide what our favourite Christmas songs, films and traditions are. It's a lot of fun!

Rebecca is raising money for The Aplastic Anaemia Trust by taking ice baths everyday in December. Do support her, if you can, using this link: https://www.theaat.org.uk/Fundraisers/katie-and-beckys-dip-a-day-december?fbclid=IwAR0eFcuSb0wpJcqbQN10-V0vPyY0zyaV-ls4ehbz2n4JeHz2t0RMRz8FtA4 
Duration: 00:49:06

In part one... 
Oxolt Strength and Conditioning is launching a new at-home bodyweight training programme in the new year, and founder Nathan Oxford discusses the fundamentals of the programme - what swimmers can expect and how it will be periodised to prime them for the major competitions.

In part two...
Swim England's Coach of the Year, Bob Bolton, joins to talk about his surprise at receiving the award, and discusses Trafford Metro's inaugural masters open meet in May next year.

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In part two, David Westcough, Jamie McHale (first half) and John Wood (second half) join in the conversation on technology - it's worth and its overhype. Are you a fan of technology?

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Get a tailored strength and conditioning programme from Oxolt Strength and Conditioning. Head to www.oxolt.com for more

This week, Clive Marquis of Cardinal Performance Swimming talks about his expanding business which aims to offer swimmers a full suite of services from swim and gym programmes,  nutrition and sports psychology. Clive believes masters swimmers, and those who leave university and are looking to further their swimming career, could benefit from this remote service, and promises good results.

Cardinal Performance Swimming website: https://www.cardinalperformanceswimming.com/
Cardinal Performance Swimming Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cardinal_ps/
Cardinal Performance Swimming Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cardinalperformanceswimming

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This week, Helen Gorman and Kevin Pickard join the podcast to imagine what the future of our sport could look like. New training methods, club structures, new races and enhanced PR for the professionals, were all discussed.

You can enjoy up to 50% off until the end of November on TheMagic5 products thanks to a Black Friday sale. Use the link www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

Get a personalised swim-specific strength and conditioning programme from Oxolt Strength and Conditioning at www.oxolt.com

This week, James Barwick, Eleanor Grimes and Kath Tunnicliffe join the podcast to discuss all things technology in swimming. They talk through the technology they and their clubs currently use, and what technology, in a world with no limits, they would love to add to their regime.

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

Get a personalised strength and conditioning programme with Oxolt Strength and Conditioning at www.oxolt.com

In this episode, City of Sheffield's Jonathan Saunders - who is part of the Masters Working Group - talks about feedback he's had from swimmers so far after nationals, and looks ahead of future developments in the sport now he is the Swim England representative for the home countries working group. Jonathan also reflects on his recovery from injury that meant he could compete in Sheffield.

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

Get a personalised strength and conditioning programme with Oxolt Strength and Conditioning...

After recently being awarded life membership to Trafford Metro, Helen Sadler took some time to reflect on her life in swimming, beginning as a primary school student when she joined Sale Swimming Club, which would later be renamed Trafford Metro. 

Listen to Helen's wonderful stories from her life in swimming, and how she's always finding ways to peak her enthusiasm for the sport.

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using this link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

Check out Oxolt Strength and Conditioning at www.oxolt.com

For all your pre-Nationals excitement, join me (Joe Malone), Beth Hogg, Kath Tunnicliffe and Kalon Veale as we discuss the weekend ahead and all the things we expect and hope to see across the three days at Ponds Forge, Sheffield.

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedia/limited

Visit www.oxolt.com to get a personalised strength and conditioning programme for greater gains in and out of the water. 

It's now just 10 days before the Swim England Masters National Championships begin, so it's time to start planning what'll be in your lunchbox over the weekend. In this episode, nutrition coach Dr Judith Brand discusses what types of food to each at which parts of the day, and what to avoid.

A swimmer herself in Lanzarote, Judith has competed at the English nationals on many occasions in the past and understands the complexities of planning your nutrition over a three-day period while stuck in a hotel room with no ability to cook and prepare your own meals...

AP Race Innovation Director Kevin Pickard joins the podcast this week to discuss the upcoming AP Race Masters Grand Prix, which takes place over the final weekend of November at Moorways, Derby. Kevin also shares the wider plans AP Race has for the masters community.

To event the AP Race Grand Prix, click here: https://events.aprace.club/events/ap-race-masters-2023/?fbclid=IwAR0WZGjGNvFdK6PNpQP8EPtj3IeJh5earcwFtfmiGGP9XXT8KhAxhXGp3ZY

To join the AP Race Masters mailing list, click here: https://events.aprace.club/masters/mailing-list/?fbclid=IwAR0CS8tM9wgvcMiaKOwnW0cznf9y5VKIM8_GAZSJ7...

Cockermouth Swimming Club Head Coach, Sean Balmer, joins the podcast this week as we discuss what makes a great swimmer, from a technical, mental and ambassadorial point of view. Sean is a longstanding volunteer in the swimming community and has overseen the development of hundreds of swimmers, including Great Britain's Luke Greenbank. 

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

Get a personalised strength and conditioning programme from Oxolt Strength and Conditioning at www.oxolt.com

Former GB artistic swimmer Sammy Wilson works as a movement and mobility coach and understands the daily aches and pains we experience as we age. Lifestyles such as desk-bound jobs don't help, but Sammy helps athletes incorporate small, daily habits into their lives to rid themselves of chronic pains. In this episode, Sammy explores some of the simple changes you can make to improve your mobility. 

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In today's episode, we discuss the power of swimming for the mind, but how it can also tip the other way and add stress to our lives. Jo Beardsworth, James Barwick, Beth Hogg and James Simpson all share their own experiences of how swimming has benefited and hindered their mental health.

Get 15% off a pair of custom-fit goggles from TheMagic5 by using the following link: www.themagic5.com/freestylemedialimited

On Saturday 23 September, Derby Excel Masters Swimming Club is hosting its first ever Masters Development Day at Alfreton Leisure Centre in Derbyshire. The day will consist of two swim sessions, talks by a qualified physiotherapist and psychologist, as well as a guest appearance from a current Great Britain swimmer. Jamie Brown, the head coach for the masters squad at Derby Excel, joins the podcast to talk more about it.

There's still space to take part. Visit this link to find out more: https://uk.gomotionapp.com//team/derbyexcel/page/news/4283/masters-development-day---saturday-23rd-september-2023 

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This week swimmer and triathlon coach, John Wood, joins in the conversation around different methods of training and hi preferences. We also discuss when to use equipment - when to add resistance and when to use overspeed. 

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A year on from his second retirement from swimming, two-time Olympian Ross Murdoch has launched his own coaching programme, aimed at helping others to develop an athletes mindset. Murdoch Coaching will will help form healthy daily habits and put structures in place that make it easy to think, feel and perform like an athlete. In this conversation, Ross talks about his own mindset and how it helped him reach the top, and how he now wants to help others achieve their goals.

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There seems to be more masters competitions available to us than ever, but how many races and events per year is the right amount? Should we take a break over the summer and will it really affect our performance? And are we training in the best possible way to get results on race day? All this, with Beth Hogg.

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