About this episode
Haley Anderson will be making her third Olympic appearance at Tokyo 2020 after qualifying for the first time, at the age of 20. Competing in open water, Haley offers a unique approach to competition that seems to have given her the edge and mental stamina needed for her events. Listen in as Haley shares her experience growing up in a family of professional swimmers. She shares what makes open water swimming a particularly rewarding challenge as she talks about potential obstacles (hot water temps & bacteria) headed her way in Tokyo. Find out how she made a name for herself, navigated life as a USC swimmer and her thoughts on the ISL’s chosen events. Key Takeaways: How Haley Anderson is preparing for her third Olympic cycle. Insights into open water swimming. Haley’s thoughts on the ISL and her future in swimming. Episode Timeline: [00:00] Intro [00:29] Haley Anderson on approaching her 3rd Olympic cycle [02:04] Qualifying for the 2012 Olympics at 20 years old [03:25] Her experience in the London Olympics [04:57] Growing up in a swimming family [08:55] Haley’s mentality going into events [10:48] Training for 2 hour swims [12:47] Practicing in pool and open water [14:11] Gym, lifting and mobility [17:31] Haley's approach to nutrition [19:43] Overtraining and fatigue [20:55] How breaks and recovery have changed for her over time [22:20] Haley's strategy for open water events [25:30] Rules, etiquette and drafting in open water [28:24] Navigating variables and gaining confidence in open water [32:15] Sponsorships (ARENA) [33:22] Choosing to go to USC [34:36] First American to be chosen for the 2020 Olympics [38:01] Hot water, e-coli and other course drawbacks [40:17] Thoughts on the ISL and swimming after Tokyo [42:34] Outro Connect: Find | Brett Hawke At fitterandfaster.com On Instagram @hawkebr Find | Haley Anderson At teamusa.org On Instagram: @swimhaley On Twitter: @swimhaley On Facebook: @haleyandersonUSA Subscribe & Listen: Apple Podcasts Google Spotify Special Thanks: Fitter & Faster . Swimnerd Pace Clocks .