Name: Jessica Adams
Age: 18
Swimming Club: DVE Aquatic Inc.
Stroke / Event: 200m + 400m IM
How long have you been swimming for and what motivates you to keep training every day?
I have been swimming for as long as I can remember and competitively since I was 7. I have always loved the sport, and this is enough to motivate me to get in the water. The chance to be better than what I was yesterday and to practice new skills is also something that helps me get out of bed in the morning.
What has been the highlight of your swimming career so far?
Placing 4th at the 2017 Australian Short Course Championships in the 400m IM and breaking the 18year old state record in the process.
How do you balance training and everyday life?
I think it’s really important to have balance as an athlete and to maintain varied interests outside of the sport. When I am away from the pool/ gym, I try to focus on other aspects of my life that are important to me, rather than always thinking about swimming. I make sure I plan specific times in my week for my study, family, friends and hobbies and stick to it.
What does a typical ‘day off’ training look like?
On a typical ‘day off’ I like to spend time with my family and catching up with friends. If it’s sunny, I am usually spending time with my boyfriend by the beach. If not, you’ll find us under the blankets watching movies. However, I do still like to stay active and will usually take my dog for a walk or do some yoga.
What does health mean to you? Why is it important?
Health is the embodiment of both physical and mental well-being. It’s about finding balance in your life and ensuring that you are taking the best possible care of your body and mind, given your individual circumstances. It is important to me because when you feel healthy you are naturally more confident and can fully engage in all that life offers.
What helps you deal with stress or anxiety before a race?
I like to remind myself that I have done the work in the days/months/years leading up to this race and all that is left to do is give it your best shot, and that’s always good enough.
Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions?
I have certain routines I like to follow, but not any specific superstitions.
QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS
Favourite type of dry-land training? Pilates/ Core Work
Favourite workout song? Glorious by Macklemore, feat. Skylar Grey
One thing you can’t live without? Bananas
Favourite pre-race meal? Weet-bix with fruit
Last thing you binged watched on Netflix? Stranger Things
Instagram or Snapchat? Instagram
Favourite Emoji? 😉
Pizza or Pasta? Pasta
Tea or Coffee? Tea
Avo Toast or Acai Bowl? You can’t beat a smashed avo!