In the run up to the swim of my life, I’ve been looking for motivation and inspiration in many places.
I’ve been checking out the following documentaries focusing on Olympic athletes from the BMW London 2012 Performance Team; which explore what it takes to deliver the ultimate performance on the world stage be it swimming, gymnastics or more.
Beneath the Surface
It’s pretty awesome [especially in the slow-mos] to see how athletes will attain attributes which can be likened to a vehicle such as power, determination, speed and endurance…
What are the resemblances to BMW? It’s all about shape, and how it’s important to boost an efficient and dynamic performance – comparing the surface of the new BMW 3 Series to that of a swimmer.
Personally I love these quotes, comparisons and the tips on form and technique that can be taken from this:
“10 sessions a week, week in, week out for 10 years, just for an 8 minute race…it’s all the details that go into that race that make the difference; trying to be as efficient as possible having a good technique and not wasting up all my energy” – Rebecca Adlington
“Athletes are really trying to maximise the performance that they get out from minimum energy…this is the paradox, that the more elegant and the more graceful the design, actually means it’s more powerful!” – BMW
These insights into the talented sports men and women really are awe inspiring!
Form and Function
These films not only emphasize the intensity and excitement of an athlete’s life but examine the mental and physical challenges and pressures facing Olympians ahead of the London 2012 Games – [put it this way, they've really put all of the worries I've had into perspective and given me confidence too; seeing how the body can endure being pushed that extra mile both physically and mentally!]
