The Journey to Swimming Success: Insights from Katie Ledecky
Editor’s Note: This story is part of Peak, The Athletic’s desk covering leadership, personal development, and performance through the lens of sports. Follow Peak here.
When Katie Ledecky first stepped into the realm of competitive swimming, it was with not just ambition but a uniquely personal approach to her goals. Rather than shying away from the pressures of winning, she embraced the quantifiable aspect of swimming—time. By coining the term “want times,” Ledecky transformed her perception of goals from merely winning races to a more intrinsic desire for self-improvement. Each meet, she would write down her “want time,” a pivotal practice that allowed her to focus on personal progress, independent of external comparisons.
The Power of “Want Times”
This practice began at a young age, reinforcing a crucial lesson: you can’t control the performance of other competitors. Focusing on her own performance, Ledecky learned early to measure her success against her own benchmarks rather than against the scoreboard. “I always really loved the fact that swimming is based on time,” she reflects. “You can really quantify your progress and see your progress.” By tracking these personal goals, she gained a sense of control and ownership over her journey.
Training Mindset: Love and Discipline
As Ledecky progressed in her swimming career, the pressure of maintaining her record-breaking streak naturally arose. She has won the 800-meter free world title a staggering seven times and dominated the event at four consecutive Olympic Games. Despite these accolades, she emphasizes the importance of her love for training. “It’s not just about trying to improve times in competitions. It’s about trying to improve times in practice as well,” she notes. This dedication to practice fosters a different kind of confidence that carries into competitions.
The Influence of Team Dynamics
Training is a shared experience, and Ledecky acknowledges the vital role of teamwork and camaraderie in athletic success. She recalls moments with her peers where mutual support became invaluable. “I love being around my team, being around my coaches, and knowing that they have goals that they’re working toward,” she explains. This shared ambition creates an environment where individuals can thrive collectively, making the pursuit of excellence a team goal.
Mentorship and Leadership
As a veteran of the sport, Ledecky has taken on the role of mentor for younger swimmers, understanding the profound impact guidance can have. Reflecting on her own formative years, she appreciates how established swimmers extended kindness and mentorship to her. “The littlest things had such an impact on me,” she recalls, emphasizing the importance of making newcomers feel welcomed and supported.
A noteworthy testament to her character comes from Claire Curzan, a swimmer who speaks highly of Ledecky’s down-to-earth nature and supportive leadership. “She is always down to answer questions… and is your #1 fan in the team section if she sees you getting ready for a race!” Curzan’s insights underline Ledecky’s commitment not only to her performance but to fostering a positive team culture.
Learning from the Next Generation
While Ledecky serves as a role model, she also embraces the lessons she learns from younger swimmers. Their fresh perspectives on the sport can often lead to personal growth for established athletes. “It’s kind of a pinch-me moment whenever I get asked that question,” she reveals, reflecting on inquiries about maintain consistent performance. These interactions keep her grounded and engaged, and they foster a culture of mutual respect and learning within the sport.
Balancing Passion and Performance
Amidst the rigors of competition, Ledecky stresses the significance of balance. She advocates for young athletes not to lose sight of other interests and passions that enrich their lives. “Go to school, get your education, enjoy playing the instrument that you played growing up. All those little things that you love to do, don’t just throw those to the side,” she advises. This holistic approach provides young athletes with a broader perspective, ensuring they remain well-rounded individuals.
Trusting the Process
Trusting one’s coaches is another essential principle Ledecky emphasizes. With a wealth of experience, she understands the importance of relying on expert guidance to navigate the complexities of competitive swimming. Coach Anthony Nesty’s mantra of consistent improvement resonates strongly with her philosophy, reinforcing the idea that daily progress—no matter how small—can lead to significant success over time.
In capturing the essence of Katie Ledecky’s journey, we uncover invaluable lessons that resonate beyond the world of swimming. Her approach to goal-setting, training, mentorship, and balance highlights not only the technical aspects of athleticism but also the profound human experiences that shape champions.