Adam Peaty, Britain's greatest swimmer, has called for a major overhaul of coaching in the United Kingdom to end the early-morning training of young children.
He believes that no child needs to wake up at 4am for swimming and that it should be banned.
What's wrong with current coaching methods?
The current system prioritizes short-term results, with coaches validated by success, leading to a focus on winning races rather than long-term athlete development.
This approach can be detrimental to young athletes, with 70% of swimmers dropping out by the age of 15.
How can coaching methods be improved?
Peaty advocates for a more open-thinking culture, where coaches prioritize athlete enjoyment and well-being over short-term success.
He suggests that young athletes should have fun-based training sessions a few times a week, rather than intense early morning sessions.
What's at stake for Adam Peaty?
Peaty's coach, Mel Marshall, has departed the British coaching system to join Swimming Australia, which may impact Peaty's decision to continue swimming.
He will turn 30 next month and is considering his options for the Los Angeles Olympics.
Peaty had to settle for silver at the Paris Olympics, just 0.02sec behind the winner, after catching Covid prevented him from competing at his best.
What's next for UK swimming?
Peaty hopes to have conversations with Aquatics GB about how to retain young athletes and implement a more healthy approach to coaching.
He runs his own AP Race Clinics for children, which focus on excitement and enjoyment rather than intense competition.
The UK swimming system is largely funded by UK Sport every four years, which can create pressure for short-term results.
Peaty believes that investing in long-term athlete development is crucial for the sport's success.
He expects to continue swimming for at least another Olympic cycle, but wants to see changes in the coaching system.
Peaty's comments come as he prepares for the Los Angeles Olympics, where he hopes to win a hat-trick of golds in the same event.