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Behind Every Champion: How Westside Strength & Conditioning Helps Swimmers Reach Their Full Potential

  • Writer: Calvin Ridlen
    Calvin Ridlen
  • 7 days ago
  • 2 min read

Over the past 10 years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and hardworking swimmers in the region. These amazing athletes have earned an incredible 119 state-and-national-level gold medals, spanning every event—from the 50 free to the individual medley. While their accomplishments speak for themselves, we’re proud to have played a part in helping them build the strength, resilience, and confidence needed to compete at the highest levels.

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Creating an Environment Where Excellence Can Happen

Success in the pool begins long before race day. It’s built in the early mornings, the late evenings, and the thousands of small moments when athletes choose to push one step further. At Westside Strength & Conditioning, our goal is simple: provide swimmers with the strength, mobility, stability, and mental confidence required to perform at their peak.

We focus on functional strength training, injury prevention, and sport-specific power development—key components that complement their work in the pool.


Developing Athletes for the Next Level

Many of our swimmers have gone on to compete at collegiate programs across the country, including:

Iowa (2)

South Dakota (2)

Grand Canyon University (2)

Iowa State (1)

Arizona State (1)

Indiana (1)

Northern Iowa (1)

Illinois (1)

South Carolina (1)

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1)

Maine (1)

These athletes trained with the same principles we apply to every swimmer: build a strong foundation, develop healthy long-term habits, and prepare the body for the demands of elite competition.

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“At Iowa, we do all the same things as I use to do at Westside… so, I was ready.” — Mallory Kell

An Olympic Trials Milestone

In 2024, one of our favorite swimmers we’ve ever coached in the weight room reached a milestone that only a rare few achieve: qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Trials. It’s a testament to their dedication and a reminder of what becomes possible when talent meets the right training and support system.

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More Than Training—A Community of Support

While we design individualized strength and conditioning programs for every athlete, the magic also happens within the community. Swimmers push each other, encourage each other, and celebrate each other’s victories. That sense of belonging and shared commitment is powerful.


Ready to Reach the Next Level?

Whether your goal is improving your stroke, preparing for college recruitment, earning a state title, or chasing something as big as Olympic Trials, we’re here to help.

Let’s see how fast you can swim!

 
 
 

Contact

(515) 664-0401

3896 NW Urbandale Dr.

Urbandale, Ia 50322

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