Adam Peaty Attributes Commonwealth Games Struggles to Excess Muscle Mass

Adam Peaty, a three-time Olympic champion swimmer, has stated that he carried an excess of muscle mass during the recent Commonwealth Games, which he believes contributed to his disappointing performance. The athlete secured one silver and two bronze medals in Glasgow, falling short of the high expectations set for him.

Following the competition, Peaty and his team analyzed his performances, concluding that his physical condition was not optimal for his first major event since the 2024 Olympics. "What I have learned from Europeans and Commonwealths this summer, without going too deep, I had too much muscle," Peaty said in comments reported by The Sun. He plans to reduce his muscle mass, noting that extra weight can be a disadvantage in swimming. "Every stroke you potentially carry another four kilograms, which isn't ideal over 42 or 43 (strokes) over 100 metres," he explained, referencing the power-to-weight ratio.

Peaty had previously expressed emotional distress during the Commonwealth Games, admitting he had "been through s***." After winning bronze in the breaststroke, he explained that his tears stemmed from knowing he was capable of better performances and questioning the purpose of his rigorous training regime. "What's the point of having to say no to family events because you can't go to training?" he asked, emphasizing his pursuit of "human excellence."

In 2023, Peaty took a break from swimming to focus on his mental health. He married Holly Ramsay, daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, in December of the previous year. The period leading up to the wedding was marked by a family feud, though his sister, Bethany, was part of the bridal party.

Holly Peaty was present at the Games to support her husband. The couple is expecting their first child, with the due date in December. Peaty also attributed his performance issues to his training load, stating that his team "pushed a little bit too far on the load in the pool, especially in the gym, which has really affected the drag profile but also the shapes I can hold under the water."

Peaty is aiming to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which he indicated would be his final Olympic appearance if he qualifies.