P Stoker

Right now, my main focus is to show up for my goals. It can be a challenge to stay present and do what is necessary when motivation isn’t high. I remind myself to keep the pace, move forward. This past week my goal has been to increase the connectivity of my swim mechanics. I know this will only happen if I stay consistent. Paying attention to my routines, breaking everything down to the basics and building up to create habits easily accessible when I compete. Some days feel repetitive and...

Training year-round in swimming, while also competing in three other sports, means my body never really gets an off-season. I’ve learned that eating enough every day is essential if I want to keep a steady, healthy weight increase instead of burning out. This means large nutritious meals packed with protein and carbs backed with healthy snacks throughout the day and in between trainings. When I fuel properly, my workouts are more productive, my recovery is quicker, and I’m able to handle my...

My first meet as a sophomore this year ended up being a lot better than I expected, especially in the event I was worried about the most: 200 IM. This race includes 50 meters each of butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle. My first event of the meet was the 100 butterfly. I psyched myself out by telling myself it wasn’t my event. I realized this mindset would not help me going into the 200 IM. Last year, my fly was not smooth. This would tire me out at the beginning therefore...