“Long Torso and a Shorter Lower Frame”: Michael Phelps’ Mother Opened Up on Worries of Him ‘Throwing Off’ His God Gifts Even With Minor Injuries

Michael Phelps’ entry into the pool was not a planned event. A hyperactive kid, Phelps loved to spend his time in the water because that gave him a way to channel his extra energy. Following his sister’s footsteps, the seven-year-old Phelps never imagined that he would become the swimming GOAT in the future. Starting his training under the guidance of coach Bob Bowman, the young boy from Baltimore is now one of the most decorated Olympians of all time.

Breaking one record after the other, Phelps’ rise to fame was quick. But for the young athlete, everything was not easy. Phelps’ physique gave him advantages, but his benefits had their own limitations.

Phelps’ minor injuries posed a severe threat 

Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches, Phelps has an exceptional physique that makes navigating through waters easier. Phelps has a wingspan of six feet and seven inches that exceeds his height. So, his mother, Mrs. Debbie Phelps, explains that he has a “long torso and a shorter lower frame.”

Further, he has a double joint that makes it easy for his feet and large hands to hold water. However, Debbie adds if “anything apparently minor happens- like banging his wrist.” Then it made “everyone worried” because “it could throw off that very fine-tuning.”

Read More: “I Hurt So Many People”: 23-Times Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps Once Reflected Upon ‘Stupid Mistakes’ He Made During His Career.

Being in every step with his son, Debbie used to worry a lot about Phelps. When the Olympic medalist had to undergo surgery on his hand, his mother was even more worried because the Beijing Olympics and the World Championship were just around the corner.

Michael Phelps’ mother had more reasons to worry 

Having had to see her daughter step back from swimming because of her “herniated disc and multiple fractures.” Debbie being worried about Phelps’ minor injuries was understandable. Much like Phelps, Whitney had her prospects bright in the pool.

But the unprecedented injury forced her to change her plans. When Whitney was diagnosed with a herniated disk, the news “was like a death” for Phelps in the family. A known name in the swimming community, Whitney had to step back hence.

Watch this story: GOAT Michael Phelps Dazzled His Fans by Sharing His Stunning Workout on Instagram.

Thus, what remained an unfulfilled dream for Whitney became a reality for Phelps. Leaving no stones unturned, the young brother made sure he lived the dreams his sister once dreamt of.