For many swimmers, getting ready for a big race involves more than putting on a bathing suit and jumping into the pool. On race day, a swimmer might eat a certain meal, listen to pump-up music, or bring her lucky goggles or towel.2 These habits help her get into the zone and focus on the race. Swim meets can be quite stressful, and having a special routine can help take away some of the pressure!

Some professional swimmers have normal routines like stretching and visualizing, but some routines are a little strange! Check out what these swimmers do before a race:

• Michael Phelps listens to upbeat hip-hop music when he’s getting ready to compete.

• Mary DeScenza, a member of the US National Swim Team, likes to get a pedicure before a big meet.

• Southern Illinois University swimmer Therese Mattsson waits until the last possible moment to put her goggles on before a race.

• British Olympic swimmer Cassie Patten can’t go to a meet unless her teddy bear and clown are tucked in bed at her house.

• Julia Wilkinson, a Canadian Olympic Team member, uses the same bathroom stall for an entire meet if she is swimming well.

These swimmers are intense both in and out of the pool!

Ok, so maybe having a lucky bathroom stall is a little bit (or TOTALLY) weird, but serious competitors will do whatever it takes to help them perform their best. Swimming skill and technique are important, but mental preparation can provide an extra edge in a close race.