Mazan Elkamash, a sprint freestyle swimmer representing Egypt on the international stage, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Fitter and Faster Swim Camps. Mazan says that several experiences had a profound effect on his career and his desire to work with young athletes. “Winning an African gold medal in 2015 was a turning point, demonstrating the power of hard work and dedication. Becoming an NCAA All-American reinforced my commitment to high-level competition, and making finals in multiple World Cups and qualifying for World Championships fueled my drive to constantly push myself. Achieving the Olympic B cut multiple times taught me the resilience needed to navigate both the highs and lows of competitive swimming. These experiences continue to influence how I coach and inspire swimmers to reach their own goals.”
Mazan creates a positive environment in Fitter and Faster swim camps so that camp participants feel confident and motivated. His camps focus on skill development and goal setting. He breaks down each stroke into manageable steps, offering clear, real-time feedback to help swimmers improve their body positioning, breathing, and form. Mazan encourages camp participants to set personalized goals and track progress to build resilience and stay motivated. “I strive to create a balance between discipline and fun, ensuring swimmers are challenged while also feeling encouraged. My ability to adapt to each swimmer’s level, whether they’re beginners or more advanced athletes, allows me to meet them where they are and guide them toward continuous improvement. Whether swimmers are just starting or looking to refine their skills, I tailor my coaching to help them grow in both ability and confidence.”
To advance in swimming Mazan relied on a few key tactics, saying “I set clear goals, breaking them into smaller, manageable steps. Mental training techniques, such as visualization and positive self-talk, helped me stay focused and confident under pressure. Prioritizing recovery, including stretching, strengthening, and sleep, kept me injury-free and energized.” Mazan says that swimming taught him many valuable lessons, including the importance of consistency and patience. “Progress isn’t always immediate, but small, steady improvements lead to big results. Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently.“