“Moving Meditation” in the Water: Hong Kong Swimmer Cindy Cheung’s Poolside Psychology
“Moving Meditation” in the Water: Hong Kong Swimmer Cindy Cheung’s Poolside Psychology
Behind the water-slicing strokes and milliseconds calculated for victory, how do swimmers handle academic stress and big-race nerves?
As a top Hong Kong swimmer and psychology undergraduate, Speedo Brand Ambassador Cindy Cheung possesses a unique and profound understanding of both the water and mindset. Step into Cindy’s poolside world to see how she merges psychology with swimming to find balance and focus among the splashes.
Technique, Rhythm, and Go with the Flow: Pure “Moving Meditation” in the Water
Asked to describe her swimming style and post-swim feeling in three words, Cindy’s answer is concise and meaningful: “Technique, Rhythm, and Go with the Flow.”
Juggling university studies and high-intensity training, the pool serves as Cindy’s ultimate sanctuary. “Swimming is often called ‘moving meditation’. The weightlessness of being in the water gives me a strong sense of freedom, which helps me completely clear my mind.” As her body enters the water, surrounded only by the rhythm of her breath and the water flowing past, all distracted thoughts fade away.
Athletes are human too. On mentally draining days, even stepping into the pool can feel like a challenge. So how does a psychology student motivate herself to take the first step?
“I tell myself: ‘Since you’ve already showed up to practice, might as well try your best and make good use of the time.’” By removing unnecessary pressure, taking that first step becomes the best mental trigger to defeat exhaustion.
Pre-Race Calm: Turning Jitters into Focus
Stepping onto the blocks at international competitions brings intense pressure, but Cindy relies on a calming pre-race ritual. “The night before a race, I like to call my parents—just hearing their voices helps ease my nerves.”
When managing pre-race anxiety, Cindy grounds herself in simple truths: “I remind myself that no matter how big the scale of the competition is, I am still just doing laps in a pool. As long as I’m well prepared, there’s nothing to be stressed about.”
In those final 60 seconds behind the block—gripping the handles and preparing to dive—she skips complex tactics in favor of pure focus: “I like having a clear mind for my races, so my main thought at that point is just to get the swim over with as fast as I can!”
Gear as the Foundation for Total Focus
To clear your mind and focus entirely on performance during high-stakes races, dependable gear is essential.
“Having equipment that I feel comfortable and confident in allows me to focus solely on my performance, without any concern of being hindered by my gear,” Cindy shares.
At Speedo, performance gear isn’t just about speed—it provides psychological safety, giving swimmers the confidence to dive in without hesitation.
To Everyone Diving In: Embrace the Water, Everything Will Be Okay
Many beginners feel shy or nervous about stepping into the pool for the first time. Having been there herself, Cindy offers encouraging advice:
“Learn to enjoy the water! I was shy and nervous when I first started too!”
Cindy leaves us with her favourite life quote: “Everything will be okay!”
Whether you’re a professional athlete pushing for a breakthrough or swimming to relieve school or work stress, Speedo is right beside you as you take the plunge. Find your rhythm and embrace the calm and freedom in every splash!