Why We Swim discussion

1-Tsui describes Guthlauger- the Nordic fisherman who survived a shipwreck, as having a “superpower” given that his natural body composition essentially made him into a “human seal”- Michael Phelps is also recognized to have “superhuman” abilities that contribute to his talent in the pool – how are these two men different from African Olympic runner Caster Semenya, who also has “superhuman” abilities but is not celebrated for it? What are the similarities?

2- Should someone’s natural abilities be judged, celebrated, questioned, or governed? Why or why not?

3- Do you have a superpower or exceptional natural ability?

4- What is your relationship with swimming or the water in general?

5- When Tsui met Guthlauger, She had a major fan girl moment, have you ever been starstruck or met one of your idols/heroes? Who was it?

6- Do you think that socioeconomic and race factors affect one's relationship with water/swimming?

7- Learning how to Swim seems to be a luxury Even in places where water is prevalent, can you think of other activities which are also surprisingly, a luxury?

8- Is there something you 'retired' from and come back to over and over like Torres did swimming?

9- Freedom – Tsui briefly mentions a sort of freedom you get in the pool regardless of who if you are or what you may be facing outside of it, is this something you can relate to?Maybe you didn’t experience this with swimming per se, but perhaps another activity? What activity?

10- When speaking about Ledeky and Phelps & their mental game strategy for training, it also sounded like a “New Age” Practice for manifestation, which can Often be ridiculed or laughed off When referencing other goals (money, Career, partners, etc.), do you think they are different? Have you ever practiced manifestation?

11- Ledeky Succeeded by failing a lot, Yet failing a lot seems like the opposite of success – in what ways do you think we prevent ourselves from failing enough to be successful?

12- Tsui Talks about joining a Masters swimming team, Masters meaning over the age of 18 in her case. In many sports “older” athletes are often referred to as Masters– How do you think a person's psyche on and off their sport can be affected by being labeled Masters or “old”? How has it affected you if you have experienced this situation?