At just 23 years old, Reed Malone has managed to put forth quite the resume. From emerging as one of the nation’s top recruits in 2013, to landing himself a three-year gig as captain of the USC Trojans, Reed possesses discipline and leadership skills far beyond his years. Standing at 6’3” with a frame built for speed, it’s hard to imagine him in any other role than that of an intense athlete; yet, Reed possesses a passion for teaching that supersedes all:

“There’s nothing more rewarding than imparting your knowledge and the lessons you’ve learned on people trying to get better in the sport. It’s fascinating to watch participants take what you give them and make it their own, then go on to be successful.”

With an uncanny ability to relate to his swimmers while also preserving the fun, Reed has partnered with Fitter and Faster in order to share his secrets to success. Emphasizing bodyline and underwater efficiency, Reed knows how to tailor his critiques to every kind of swimmer and stroke.

“Every athlete is different, and every stroke is different, but if you can nail down the basics of cutting through the water and maintaining a good bodyline, everything else falls into place.”

In what he calls the “fifth stroke,” Reed makes it a point to clean up every participants’ underwaters, highlighting the importance of paying attention to every technical aspect of the race. Not only that, but Reed continues to choose fun and creative ways to deliver his information, fostering an exciting learning environment in which participants are able to connect with the clinician.

“I tell my swimmers to think of themselves in a video game, and the goal is to be better than the ‘ghost car.’ In swimming it’s very easy to get discouraged because you’re constantly comparing yourself to other athletes, and you can’t control anyone else. I want my swimmers to enjoy the process and find joy in being better than the athletes they were yesterday.”

Despite all of his success and accolades, Reed has not forgotten what it was like to be an aspiring champion. In fact, he devotes much of his time to understanding his potential participants in order to mold his teaching-style accordingly. Packaging his detailed, technical instruction in articulate and interesting examples, Reed values the importance of the human connection and hopes his participants walk away with more than just sharpened technique.

“The best teachers are those who can put themselves in their students’ shoes. I remember what it was like trying to climb the ladder, and I want to use empathy and understanding in relating to everyone in my clinics. Most of all, I want them to have fun and learn something; I want them to compete against themselves and apply that to other areas of their lives.”

Do you want to understand the secrets to shaving time in an an environment where you forget you’re learning? Sign up for Reed’s clinic today!