Canadian swimming sensation Summer McIntosh is making a major change in her career as she sets her sights on the 2028 Olympics. The 18-year-old from Toronto has announced that this will be her final season training at the Sarasota Sharks under coach Brent Arckey, the mentor who helped her achieve incredible success at the Paris Olympics. McIntosh is now considering legendary coach Bob Bowman, best known for training Michael Phelps to an unprecedented 23 Olympic gold medals. As she continues to grow in her career, she believes Bowman’s expertise in handling multi-event swimmers could be the key to unlocking her full potential. A New Chapter for McIntosh In an exclusive interview with CBC Sports, McIntosh reflected on her time in Sarasota, expressing deep gratitude for everything she has achieved under Arckey’s guidance. “Just to reflect on the past almost three years I’ve been in Sarasota, I’ve grown so much as a person and a swimmer. Coach Brent really pushed me to be the best swimmer I could be. I will forever cherish my years here. It’s been a great run.” Despite the upcoming transition, McIntosh will continue training with Arckey as she prepares for the World Championships in Singapore this July. Arckey is expected to remain part of the Canadian coaching team during the event. Bob Bowman: The Next Step? Bowman, who recently became the head coach at the University of Texas, has built one of the world’s top training programs, coaching elite swimmers such as Leon Marchand, Regan Smith, and Simone Manuel. Given his vast experience, McIntosh sees him as the ideal coach to guide her through a demanding multi-event Olympic program. “Bob coaching the greatest of all time—Michael Phelps—being able to do all those events is definitely an attraction. As I move forward in my career, I still want to continue to develop other events.” McIntosh is set to visit the University of Texas in March to explore her options, though she has made it clear that she is not interested in competing in the NCAA. Instead, she is looking for a professional training group that offers more flexibility and individual focus. “The NCAA is a great option, but for me personally, I think a pro team makes more sense because it has a lot more flexibility and it’s a lot more individual.” Support from Coach Arckey While the decision to move on is bittersweet, Coach Arckey fully supports McIntosh’s transition. He acknowledges that Bowman and the University of Texas offer an exceptional training environment, making it the ideal next step in her journey. “If you can find me a better place, then I’m all ears. It’s a great opportunity. I’ve been supportive of this the entire time. I want to make sure she’s going somewhere where she’s going to get better and spread her wings.” Arckey also expressed pride in McIntosh’s accomplishments under his coaching. Since joining the Sarasota Sharks, she has set world records, won multiple world championship titles, and became the first Canadian to win three gold medals in a single Olympics. In 2024, she was named Canada’s Athlete of the Year and World Aquatics’ Female Swimmer of the Year. “Since the moment I stepped on deck just as a visitor, I knew coach Brent believed in me. When I first moved here, I never thought I’d be leaving with all the medals and the records and all the stuff that we’ve accomplished.” What’s Next for McIntosh? With her sights set on five gold medals at the 2028 Olympics, Summer McIntosh is making a bold move in her career. As she weighs her options and prepares for the World Championships, all eyes will be on where she ultimately chooses to train. One thing is certain—McIntosh is just getting started, and the world of swimming should brace for even more record-breaking performances from this young Canadian superstar.
3 Simple Yoga Poses for a Healthier Mind and Body
Malaika Arora is known for her dedication to fitness, and yoga is a major part of her routine. She often shares inspiring workout videos, motivating her followers to adopt a mindful and healthy lifestyle. Recently, she demonstrated three simple yoga poses that anyone can practice at home. These asanas don’t require much effort but offer incredible health benefits. 1. Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) The Tree Pose is excellent for improving balance, stability, and focus. It strengthens the legs and core while enhancing flexibility in the hips and groin. Holding this pose also encourages proper spinal alignment, helping with posture. The grounding nature of the Tree Pose has a calming effect on the mind, making it great for reducing stress and anxiety. How to Do It: • Stand straight and shift your weight onto one leg. • Place the sole of your other foot on your inner thigh or calf (avoid the knee). • Join your palms in a prayer position at your chest or raise them above your head. • Hold for a few breaths, then switch sides. 2. Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana) The Warrior Pose is a powerful stance that builds strength in the legs, arms, and core. It improves stamina, opens the chest, and boosts confidence and energy. This pose also helps release tension from the upper body, promoting a sense of relaxation while enhancing endurance. How to Do It: • Start in a standing position and step one foot back. • Bend your front knee at a 90-degree angle, keeping your back leg straight. • Raise your arms overhead or extend them out to the sides. • Hold the pose, keeping your gaze forward, then switch sides. 3. Lotus Pose (Padmasana) Padmasana, or the Lotus Pose, is commonly used for meditation. It enhances flexibility in the hips, knees, and ankles while promoting good posture. Sitting in this position helps improve blood circulation in the lower body and calms the mind, making it ideal for deep breathing and relaxation. How to Do It: • Sit on the floor with your legs extended. • Bend one knee and place your foot on the opposite thigh. • Repeat with the other leg, crossing both legs over each other. • Keep your spine straight, rest your hands on your knees, and focus on deep breathing. Final Thoughts These three yoga poses—Tree Pose, Warrior Pose, and Padmasana—are simple yet highly effective for improving strength, flexibility, and mental well-being. Practicing them regularly can enhance your balance, posture, and relaxation. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in yoga, incorporating these poses into your routine can make a big difference in your overall health.