Michael Groß explains why it is that children have a different relationship to swimming today and what can help.
The news of fatal bathing accidents in the past few weeks has again led to discussions about inadequate swimming skills. "It used to be normal for children who come to school to be able to swim and cycle safely," says Michael Groß (56) in an interview with spot on news. And the multiple Olympic and world champion in swimming adds: "We were all proud of our seahorse in swimming suits and swimming trunks. Swimming is no longer the case. There are many reasons. There are fewer ways to learn to swim, there are fewer Instructors and parents don't always make sure that their own children learn to swim. "
One idea would be "that all parents get a voucher for a swimming course for their children that is paid for by the state," says Groß. "And the voluntary, voluntary work in the DLRG that learns to swim should be recognized more."
Michael Groß does that today
The former sports star, who together with his wife Ilona has just published the book "The best is ahead" (Riva), turned 56 in June. "The number means that I can still do a lot in my life, together with others. I have been in my job for at least ten years. A lot can happen and I can absorb a lot." Groß works as a coach and book author, is the owner of a consulting company and teaches at the University of Frankfurt am Main on the topic of "Digital Leadership".
With his book he now wants to tell readers that "the future offers more than we need, despite the acute corona crisis. The older we are, we should choose what is really best for us that lies ahead "We should not let ourselves be driven crazy, for example, what is possible through digitization, such as constant accessibility. We should not optimize life completely, but keep space for the unexpected and surprises on the way".
And how can the Corona crisis be used for a fresh start? "We should focus on what can be reached directly to get going again," says Groß. "This can be something completely new in the job that we tackle. Or vice versa, if we have too much on our ears, also the deliberate avoidance to create new perspectives. It starts with more time for yourself and the people, that are dear to you. This gives us more appreciation for the things that are important to us. And we are less driven by everything that is urgent. "
"Start slowly"
Many people have mostly been at home in the past few months and have moved less. The former athlete advises people who are under 20 and want to start moving again: "Start slowly, try and feel what is good for you. Twice 15 minutes a week can be enough to get started. Feel at the start rather too little than too much. In any case, exercise your circulation and coordination gently. Swimming, for example, is well suited for this. "
"Today, three to four hours of sport, gym and mountain biking are enough for me every day," says Groß. "And that moderately and regularly. I take the time for that, because I can also relax in my head very well."
"I've learned to look ahead again"
Unlike footballers, swimmers cannot make millions from their sport. Was that ever a problem for Michael Groß? "No, everyone should do what they enjoy. The rest is the result. This applies especially to a hobby, which swimming has always been for me." When asked whether he had a mental sag after his successful career, Groß replied: "Not just one. Disappointments, for example, should be 'let down'."
"In the job, for example, when a customer is lost. That is annoying. Or when your health plays a trick on you. It is difficult for a former competitive athlete. In the process, I learned to look forward to what lies ahead. Maybe also what new things can be discovered that I would not have seen otherwise if everything had gone 'normally'. " His previous conclusion for his life after sport is: "Anyone who plans too much will be surprised by chance. Although I always have a perspective for the next few years, I am also open to what is happening. About new challenges on the way, and there are a few at the moment, I can develop myself further and get new perspectives. "
That is the secret of his marriage
In "The best is before us" there are also tips on the topic of relationships. What is Michael Groß's most important principle in his marriage? "Affection and freedom are fundamental to us, literally," he explains. "Leaning towards the other person and their needs strengthens each relationship, especially in difficult times. This includes giving the other person freedom for their own interests, for example, riding my horse with my wife. This creates a partnership that gives each other energy give, to be able to surprise each other and to enjoy the time together. "