The need to have a routine: the Phelps tape

Michael Phelps, one of the greatest swimmers in history, was known for his intense preparation and routine before competitions. His pre-race routine, often referred to as “watching the tape,” was a ritual that contributed to his concentration and optimal mental state for competing at the highest level.

This practice involved several steps:

Isolation - Phelps sought a quiet corner free from distractions. He often withdrew to a secluded area, away from the hustle and bustle of the main event, to completely focus on his performance.

Headphones and music - He wore headphones and listened to his personal playlist. Music helped him relax and focus his mind on his upcoming races.

Visualization - He closed his eyes and mentally imagined himself swimming the perfect race. He visualized every aspect of his performance, imagining every stroke, turn, and movement in the water. This visualization practice helped him mentally prepare and adopt a winning mindset.

Focus on headphones - By concentrating on the music, rhythm, and lyrics of the songs, Phelps found a way to block out external distractions and entirely focus on his upcoming performances.

This ritual was part of Phelps’ mental approach to competition. It allowed him to enter an optimal mental state, minimizing stress and maximizing his concentration, enabling him to excel in his races.