How is Michael Phelps so fast?

Answer 1

His technique is really good, his kick is amazing (which probably has something to do with his size 14 feet) and he can extend his ankle and foot further than a Ballet dancer can, so he is unique.

Answer 2

He doesn't!

200 m (lc)Freestyle1:44.10Omaha, Nebraska, US02008-07-01 July 1, 2008200 m (lc)Backstroke1:54.65Indianapolis, Indiana, US02007-08-01 August 1, 2007

When comparing his long course US records in the 200 meter for both strokes he swam the freestyle over 10 seconds faster than the back. I've never looked at his split times from the 400 IM, but I would be surprised if his back split was quicker than his free split (even though one swims backstroke as the second portion of the IM and freestyle as the fourth).

Answer 3

He practices swimming for a few hours daily and controls his diet.