GB artistic swimmers deliver national workout via conference call

Hundreds of artistic swimmers from across the UK have taken part in a national workout delivered by Great Britain’s FINA World Series medal winners.

Each member of the British team that won silver in the French Open in March led a session on a Zoom conference call that was attended by more than 300 girls and boys from England, Scotland and Wales.

The national workout was the culmination of a week-long event for the senior and junior British squads which saw the athletes take part in a virtual camp.

Karen Thorpe, Swim England Artistic Swimming Manager, said: “I am so proud of our senior team athletes, not just for their professionalism during the national workout but throughout the whole lockdown period.

“They have had an uncompromised approach, showing determination to better themselves as a team and be in great shape when they return to the pool.

Inspiring and motivating

“We have been holding virtual team sessions every week since the lockdown started, following a daily schedule produced by team coach Katie Clark.

“The GB duet, Kate Shortman and Isabelle Thorpe, have also been taking part in daily virtual training including strength and conditioning sessions, flexibility, dance and extension exercises.

“They have all worked so hard and I have been impressed by their determination and desire to maintain their high standards.”

Meanwhile, the youth team have been swapping training techniques with their Italian counterparts.

The 22 youth athletes, which includes two boys, took their first steps on the international ladder during two virtual sessions with the Italian team.

Karen added: “It was very inspiring and motivating for our athletes and a great opportunity to work with another country.”

The event was made possible by the British duet coach Paola Basso and the youth coach Francesca Filatondi.