Maximize your potential through swimming

He was diagnosed with autism and intellectual disability at the age of three, and started attending swimming school in the fourth grade of elementary school.
“For me, swimming is something that allows me to make the most of my abilities. There is a huge difference between what I’m good at and what I’m not good at, so swimming is essential in helping me develop my strengths,” she answers clearly.

Currently, he is focusing on training such as “In breaststroke, after each stroke, there is one kick and then the center of gravity shifts. By keeping this in mind, I practice moving further forward,” and “In strokes, I practice something called sculling, which involves being conscious of getting a feel for the water using only my arms.”

Furthermore, Yamaguchi also wants to focus on events other than breaststroke, which she excels at. The final Japan national team will be decided, but in Paris, in addition to breaststroke, there is a possibility that she will compete in the 100m butterfly, 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle relay, and 200m individual medley. Backstroke and freestyle in particular are new challenges for Yamaguchi, who did not compete in the Tokyo Games, and for butterfly, where she placed fourth in the Tokyo Games, she is working on her own “unique practice to be conscious of catching with her arms.” Swimming is “the wings that expand one’s potential,” so Yamaguchi’s challenges will never stop.

An unforgettable London experience

In 2019, he set a new world record at the World Championships in London and won the championship. Immediately after crossing the finish line, Yamaguchi clasped his hands together and expressed his gratitude to those around him, saying, “Thank you.” This impressed many spectators and became a hot topic. He said that the excitement of the spectators at the tournament was very impressive.

“The cheers were incredible. In Japan, it’s like the cheering at a big baseball or soccer game. I realised the cultural difference: in Britain, para-swimming is seen as entertainment.”

In Europe, it is common for the Olympics and Paralympics not to be treated separately.
“In the UK, Olympic and Para swimming are run together as one, and selection tournaments are held at the same time. This means there are many opportunities for Olympic and Para athletes to interact. I think this situation broadens the horizons of swimmers and has a positive effect on their worldview. I have actually trained with Olympic athletes and people who have competed in the Olympics, which was a great experience. If Japan could evolve in this way, I think para sports would become even more widespread.”