Taper is one of the most important phases of the season. Training volume drops, intensity stays high, and how you feel in the water can change from day to day (totally normal, by the way!). What matters is how you approach it.

Here are a few tips to consider as we approach the championship season, so you can unleash your limitless potential come race day.

Trust the Process

Resist the urge to judge how you feel day to day. Some days you’ll feel sharp, and others flat or restless. That doesn’t mean it isn’t working. Stay committed to the plan, keep your routines consistent, and remember that rest is an essential part of the work, so give your body time.

Practice Your Race Pace

Race-pace work becomes even more important as volume comes down. Focus on tempo, turns, breakouts, and hitting the speed you want to see on race day. Short, high-quality efforts help keep your nervous system sharp and reinforce confidence heading into race day.

Amp Up the Drill Work

Less yardage means more time to focus on your stroke. Use focused drill work to clean up your stroke, reinforce body position, and fine-tune your breathing and timing. Incorporating training gear, like paddles or fins, can help activate key muscle groups and perfect your stroke.

Prioritize Recovery

Recovery is what allows taper to work. Without it, reduced training volume won’t translate to better performance. Stay consistent with mobility and stretching, fuel your body properly, hydrate, and prioritize your sleep. Compression gear, like BODIMAX Compression Sleeves, can also support circulation and minimize lactic acid build-up 

If you find yourself doubting the taper process, remind yourself that you’ve already put in the hard work. You're just giving your body the time it needs to recognize the effort. Use these final weeks to sharpen details, recover, and build confidence in your preparation. Trust the process, and be ready to race when championships arrive. 

Good luck! You’ve got this.