Double Olympic gold medalist Rebecca Adlington chats to Sportsister about her love for swimming, her typical training day and what she likes to do when she’s not in the pool.
When did you start competing?
I started racing when I was about 10 or 11, the serious stuff didn’t start until I was about 13.
Did anyone have an impact on your career?
Yes, they certainly have done! My coach Bill Furniss has supported me through both successes and failures and has without a doubt made me the swimmer I am - he’s like family. Obviously my parents have been out of this world, they have made so many sacrifices that I’ve lost count. My team mates have had a great impact on my career, they’ve always picked me up when I’m down - plus they make everything fun which is very important. Becoming a Speedo athlete has also been amazing - it’s great to be a part of the world’s best swim brand.
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Why swimming?
Easy - I just love the sport. It’s challenging, fun, technical, exciting, amazing to watch and always competitive. What more could you ask for?
What’s your proudest moment within your career to date?
It’s got to be the Olympic Games in Beijing where I wore the Speedo LZR Racer. I worked so hard for so many years and it just all came together at the right time. Having all the hard work I put in paying off was so satisfying, all those early mornings were worth it in the end. Finishing the race and looking back at the screen and seeing the number one next to your name is an indescribable feeling. For it to happen twice was a truly amazing experience
What is your training regime?
My typical day will see me in the pool at 6am for a two hour training session, I then go home for something to eat and then I do another two hours in the late afternoon. I also do two hours in the gym three days a week. I have Sundays off. It is hard getting up so early especially after a hard day but you know it’s what you have to do to be the best.
Breakdown as follows;
5.20am alarm, training 6am-8am, then back home for breakfast, a bit of sleep, and some daily activities such as food shopping, media, physio. Three days a week I go to the gym from 4-5pm and then afternoon training in the pool from 5-7pm. After that its back home for something to eat and bed at 9pm.
Whats your favourite training tool?
My favourite training aid is the Speedo kick board. It’s good to break up your training and really helps to strengthen my legs.
How do you stay motivated?
I really love doing what I do so that is a bonus! Added to that, the thought of winning major competitions and more medals drives me forward.
What do you do after a win?
It varies to be honest. After I won in Beijing I didn’t have any time to do anything. Normally I like to treat myself! I have a bit of a sweet tooth, so I might have a bit of chocolate.
Who do you train with?
I train with my Nottingham team, Nova Centurion. The squad is about 20 swimmers, aged between 13-23.
What do you do to relax?
I like to relax and switch off in front of something on TV. Maybe Friends or a film. I also like going to the cinema and shopping.
Favourite Foods
That’s an easy one - My mum’s Sunday roast. Her Yorkshire puddings are the best!
Favourite Music
I love my Speedo Aquabeat - a waterproof MP3 player, I listen to most things to be honest, although I’m not a huge fan of classical music or heavy metal.
Favourite Movie
So many to choose from. It really depends on what mood I’m in. I do like Dirty Dancing, a classic! I also thought Mamma Mia was brilliant.
On a general day when you don’t train, what do you do…?
Sleep!! I love being able to have a lie in as they don’t happen too often. Speedo’s casual clothing is great and I love lounging around, or hitting the shops.
Do you have a pet? If so what?
Yes, I have two dogs - Poppy and Saffy.
What did you want to be when you were little?
Grown up!
Pop Idol or Strictly Come Dancing?
Strictly Come Dancing.
What is your favourite colour?
Purple.
Who is your idol?
I don’t have one to be honest.
Where’s the best place you’ve visited?
The US. I love it, there is so much variety - so much to do. Great weather helps too. And I adore the theme parks!
Favourite city for a romantic break?
It’s got to be Venice - we stopped off there when I was on a cruise and really loved it. It is an amazingly beautiful city, interesting and different.
What is your idea of a perfect day?
It starts with a lie in, and the sun is definitely shining. But overall, I think it would be not having to look at the clock, not worrying about how much time I have. I’d love not to have to rush around. I’d go for a leisurely walk, have a meal in my garden - a BBQ or picnic! So basically I’d chill out, read a book or catch up with friends.
Louise Hudson, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
