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Swim On, Maritza!
- What do you like to eat before a swim meet? During a meet? After a meet?
I actually like to eat everything. Usually during a meet I try to stay away from fried foods and carbonated drinks. After a meet, I used to love to eat a dessert (sort of a celebration of ending the meet) but it's not that big of a deal anymore. I can live without the dessert. I eat the way I would during practice schedule, except I don't eat out every night, I usually cook for myself. I think now I typically eat as I would any other day because I think it's important to keep your body on the same types of foods and not change it up because of a meet.
- What's your favorite food?
My favorite food is prime rib steak (hmm... love beef), or the "Ultimate Feast" from Red Lobster! - What things do you think are important for swimmers to "be sure they do" in a workout or a meet (assuming these are things you always do, too)!
I think it's very important to stay hydrated. During a workout your body's fluids need to be replenished as we burn then off so quickly. And of Course my motto- Never Give Up, always believe in yourself at meets. If you have one bad swim or one bad practice, don't get discouraged. "Every Dawg has it's day"! - Do you have any technique tips or "secrets" you can share?
Every swimmer needs confidence. You have to mentally prepare yourself to swim well and to suceed at a high level. Just to let you in a little secret of mine: Right before my races I like to bend over and touch my toes, close my eyes, and tell myself to "Do my Best." In the end that's all you can ask of yourself. At the end of my race, I want to be certain that I gave it my all. A little secret technique that can be very beneficial to young swimmers: stay flexible. I have very flexible ankles, so I can really kick fast. Flexibility can make a huge difference in your swimming techniques.
Swim On, Maritza!