SwimFit is more than just a training program - it’s a place where adult swimmers come together to build fitness, improve technique and stay motivated in the water.

Whether you're chasing personal bests or simply enjoy the rhythm of regular training, SwimFit offers structure, support and connection.

We recently caught up with Socrates, a dedicated SwimFit member who’s represented Australia at three consecutive Masters World Championships. His discipline, resilience and love for the sport continue to inspire swimmers across our community.

Can you share your experience competing at the Masters World Championships?

Socrates: "This was my third consecutive Worlds - Fukuoka (2023), Doha (2024), and Singapore (2025). Each time, the adrenaline and excitement were through the roof. From the hotel to the call room, and finally walking into the arena where elite swimmers had competed just a week before, it felt like the culmination of months of hard work.

The satisfaction of racing, giving my all, and meeting swimmers from around the world made the experience unforgettable. The Masters community feels like a global family - supportive, passionate, and connected."

What were your goals going into the competition, and how did you feel about your performance?

S: "My goals were to improve my times, set personal bests, and qualify for new events. I swam five races, including the 100m Breaststroke and 50m Butterfly, which I couldn’t qualify for the year before. I was thrilled to achieve two new personal bests and equal two more. It was a strong step forward from Nationals earlier in the year, and I’m very happy with that."

Follow your passion, be disciplined, and remember it’s never too late to set new goals and have new experiences.

How did you prepare for the event?

S: "I trained consistently for 16 months - gym in the mornings (dryland work tailored to swimming) and SwimFit squad sessions in the evenings, Monday to Thursday, with Karen and Mark.

I also worked on mobility and flexibility outside the pool. To sharpen my race skills, I competed at local meets about once a month, which really helped me manage nerves on the big stage."

What did it mean to you to represent your club and country?

S: "It was a proud moment. I’ve spent countless evenings training with the Gunyama SwimFit squad, so representing the community that supported me meant a lot. Competing for Australia, the country I’ve called home for 15 years, was equally special and gave me even more motivation."

How has being part of our squad community impacted your motivation?

S: "Having great coaches and a squad with real camaraderie makes a huge difference. Even the person swimming in your lane can push you to go harder. Beyond training, we share chats before and after sessions, celebrate birthdays, and enjoy social events together. It’s more than swimming - it’s a team."

What advice would you give to other squad members considering competitive goals?

S: "Follow your passion, be disciplined, and remember it’s never too late to set new goals and have new experiences."

How do you hope your journey encourages others?

S: "I took a 15-year break from swimming before coming back three years ago. Since then, I’ve raced at Worlds and achieved personal goals I never thought possible. I hope my story shows that age is just a number - if you’ve done it once, you can do it again."

What inspired you to compete at the Masters level, and what keeps you passionate?

S: "My passion for swimming and the whole training process - gym and pool - keeps me motivated. I love the structure, the competition, and being part of the Masters community at all levels, from local meets to international championships."

What’s next for you?

S: "I want to keep improving, especially in the 50m and 100m freestyle, and get closer to my best times from 20 years ago.

Looking ahead, I plan to compete at:

• 2025: Australian Masters Games in Canberra + several NSW meets

• 2026: World Masters Series in Abu Dhabi, Nationals in Brisbane, Pan Pacific Masters on the Gold Coast, and monthly state comps

• 2027: World Aquatics Masters Championships in Budapest"

Feeling inspired by Socrates' story?

Take your swimming to the next level! Visit our Swim Squads page to learn more about competitive swimming, improve your technique, and master the art of racing.