From Pool to Podium: Our Deep Dive Into Swimming Star Emma McKeon

For some athletes, swimming is a sport; for Emma McKeon, it's a true passion. We explore Emma's secrets to success and her top tips for aspiring swimmers.

Forget the superstitions before race day. Emma keeps it simple with a bright racing suit for a splash of fun and extra confidence. Her key strengths? Determination and consistency, “Patience and perseverance are what get me through tough training days”.

A Young Start and a Career Turning Point

Emma's journey began early, with her parents teaching her to swim from 6 months old. Growing up in Wollongong, she joined West Illawarra Aquatic. Inspired by legends like Susie O’Neill and Ash Barty, she quickly realised competitive swimming was her true calling.

A standout moment? The 100 fly at the 2017 World Championships, where a second-place finish cemented her confidence to compete with the best, “"That race was a turning point. It made me believe I could perform at the highest level”.

Emma’s Top Training Tips for Aspiring Athletes

1. Master the Basics: Focus on technique and perform drills slowly.
2. Build Your Kicks: Gradually increase underwater kicks for extra power.
3. Stay Focused: Set a goal for each session.
4. Perfect Your Start and Turns: Repetition is key.
5. Have Fun: Find a moment of joy in every practice.

While Emma has honed great techniques for getting into a positive race day headspace, motivation isn’t always a given. Whether it's a goal, a training partner, or simply the satisfaction of completing a session, it’s all about finding something that will push you through on the hard days, "You can't rely on motivation alone. Sometimes, you just have to find a reason to keep going."

How Emma Trains and What She Eats

Emma’s training regimen includes spin sessions for leg strength, Pilates for core stability, circuit training for endurance, and gym workouts for overall power. Fins are her go-to training aid in the pool, making intense sessions more fun.

When it comes to diet, it’s just about balance. Training meals include salmon, rice, and a mango/avocado salad. Before races, pasta is the energy-boosting choice. Consistency is key, even when travelling, “Eating well keeps me fuelled and ready to perform."

Outside the pool, Emma loves hitting cafes, beaches, reading, Netflix, and hanging out with family, friends, and her dog. Travel is a must during breaks. Committed to making a difference, Emma also supports UNICEF, “Supporting UNICEF allows me to give back and help children in need worldwide. It’s a cause that’s very close to my heart.”

From early lessons to world championships, Emma's journey is one of dedication, hard work, and extreme passion. Her tips and experiences are a treasure trove for aspiring swimmers who are looking to compete at the highest level, showing the power of consistency over time and always striving to be at the top of your game no matter what.