I think technique is part of it, but a more important factor is natural ability-genetics. Previous elite swimmers rose to their elite status over a multitude of others who worked as hard and had excellent technique. There are some people who are able to do things that the rest of us can't. I think this is true in any sport. Hard work can help you achieve your potential, but I think everyone has a different potential. There are some people that I swim with/against that will never swim as fast as me - there are many people that I swim with/against that I will never be able to keep up with (at least not consistently).
Hey no200fly, I would probably consider you elite. To me it is anyone who trained throughout college at a serious program.
I do agree with you that genetics play a roll on who can and cannot medal at the Olympics, but I don't think it limits most people who would want to swim in college.
I think technique is part of it, but a more important factor is natural ability-genetics. Previous elite swimmers rose to their elite status over a multitude of others who worked as hard and had excellent technique. There are some people who are able to do things that the rest of us can't. I think this is true in any sport. Hard work can help you achieve your potential, but I think everyone has a different potential. There are some people that I swim with/against that will never swim as fast as me - there are many people that I swim with/against that I will never be able to keep up with (at least not consistently).
Hey no200fly, I would probably consider you elite. To me it is anyone who trained throughout college at a serious program.
I do agree with you that genetics play a roll on who can and cannot medal at the Olympics, but I don't think it limits most people who would want to swim in college.
