Despite the restriction to pools and other training facilities, swimmer Taichi Vakasama is staying focused and continues with his land training.

His daily training programme is prepared by coach, Marlene Blake and sent through viber messages or email.

Not having access to a pool is a great challenge for the 20-year-old medical student.

“In order to become faster in swimming, we need to practice in a pool, and during this time when all the pools are closed it is really critical for us,” he added.

“Currently I’m really motivated and looking forward to it, and I’m just planning how to build up towards the competition in the pool.

“All I’m doing right now is planning on what to do when I’m back in the pool.

“I mostly do land training, I just run at CAAF compound because the pools are closed as we are trying our best to self-quarantine,” Vakasama said.

He said that his daily routine varies from day-to-day.

“I have only been doing body weights, running, push-ups, bit of squats and chin ups from the bars.

“Some days we focus on the upper body and lower body, the balance is quite important for swimming in order to keep your body stable in water,” he added.

Vakasama is one of the eight swimmers who are vying for the two Olympic spots for Team Fiji swimming at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games from July 23- August 8, next year.

Vakasama broke the 200m breast stroke Pacific Games record at the 2019 Pacific Games in Apia, Samoa.

Vakasama is a second year student at the University of Fiji, Saweni Campus.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj