Mike Peyrebrune, coach and sports scientist at Loughborough University, joins us to share expert insight into altitude training and warm weather camps. Drawing on his experience working with Olympic swimmers, Mike explains how elite athletes use these environments to fine-tune performance - and what that really looks like in practice.

We explore the science behind altitude training, from the physiological adaptations to the realities of living and training in a low-oxygen environment. What benefits are swimmers actually chasing? How are altitude camps structured across a season? And where do the marginal gains really come from?

Crucially, we bring the conversation back to club and masters swimmers. Is altitude training realistic, or even worthwhile outside the elite system? We discuss the trade-offs, the limitations, and the alternatives, including heat training and warm weather camps.

We sit down with 2025 British Masters Decathlon champions Michelle Ware and Mike Hodgson to unpack one of swimming’s most intriguing competitions.

They break down what the Decathlon actually is, how it works, and how any masters swimmer can get involved - whether you’re chasing points or just looking for a new challenge. We also dive into how it can keep you motivated across the season and push you beyond your usual comfort zone.

Along the way, we tackle the mysterious age-adjustment formula (yes, we try to make sense of it…) and explore why Jane Asher continues to set the standard as one of the toughest competitors to beat.

The best part? You’re probably already in it. Every British masters swimmer is automatically included - so this might just be the nudge you need to broaden your events and give it a go.

We discuss the radical training behind the fastest man in the world. Sonny Trigg shares what he learned from spending time in Brisbane with Cameron McEvoy.

Fresh from witnessing the build-up to McEvoy’s world record-breaking 50m freestyle (20.88), Sonny gives a unique behind-the-scenes look at a programme that’s turning traditional swim training on its head.

We explore the relentless focus on marginal gains, the team and environment that support it, and the mindset shift that allowed McEvoy to completely reinvent how he trains - with remarkable results. We also look what other swimmers can take from this approach (and there’s more than you might think, whether you’re a sprinter or not).

This is a fascinating, thought-provoking look at what it took to become the fastest in the world - and what elements of that journey might apply to you.

Huge thanks to Sonny, aka TheSwimSuitGuy, for joining Helen Gorman on the podcast.