How Do You Compare to an Olympic Athlete?

…and Ways to Improve Your Performance

Running

100-meter sprint:
Average Adult: 15+ seconds
Usain Bolt: 9.58 seconds

Running Tip

Build muscle strength. The stronger your legs are, the more power they can generate. A strong upper body and core support proper form and reduce fatigue.

Swimming

Average Adult: 2 mph or roughly 2 laps/minute (Standard size pool lap is 25 yards)
Michael Phelps: 6 mph or roughly 7 laps/minute

Swimming Tip

Breathing technique contributes to speed. When doing a freestyle stroke, keep your face level with the water and gently rotate your head from side to side to breathe. Try not to lift your head up out of the water as it could cause your lower body to drop.

Rowing

Lung capacity:
Average Adult: 6 liters
Pete Reed: 11.68 liters

Rowing Tip

Drive with your legs. Legs should be doing 60% of the work while 30% comes from the core and 10% from the arms.

30 minutes of rowing enhances your lungs’ ability to provide oxygen to your body.

Cycling

Revolutions per minute (RPM:)
Average Adult: 60-85 RPM
Lea Friedrich: 110 RPM

Cycling Tip

Static stretching relaxes muscles, reducing force and power. Try dynamic stretching before a ride, paying extra attention to the hamstrings, quads and glutes.

Studies show that exercising with someone can improve fitness, fun and consistency – especially if they challenge you.