Hello folks,

Now that December is here it will be January before you know what has hit you, and then May will be right on the horizon.

So, before the Christmas eating weeks begin, let’s think ahead!

If the brilliant opportunity to swim at the London Aquatic Centre is part of your plan for 2016, it is well into the time for preparation, and this 2 week break over the Christmas/New Year holiday needs some thought as well.

There are other pools which may be open when ours is closed, Christine has put information on the website ( ). But beside swimming, don’t forget you can always walk, cycle (with great care) maybe get to a gym or somewhere to have some cross training if you don’t already have it as part of your lifestyle.

If you have decided on the strokes you will be racing (remember there will be other meets before the Europeans to enter to get times and race practice) check onYouTubefor strengthening, and stamina, and skill drills, and, MOST IMPORTANTLY for injury prevention exercises. Take great care of yourselves over this festive period, it isn’t always your fault when accidents occur, so watch out for careless others, (Granny speaking! How to keep going till you’re very old!)

Then in the New Year we will begin specific training for this great meet, we are so lucky to have the opportunity for an outstanding experience at home.

Please tell me what you think you would like to swim, and see if you can arrange your year to be free for the whole of May. So that you can prepare with the right amount of intensity the early work should be behind you, and the last few weeks are for the peak and taper, specific to your race, be it individual or relay - Great fun.

In the meantime have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Jane