He tells the Academy why he loves his sport - and why everyone should make sure they get in the swim.

There aren't many sports that give you the all-round conditioning that swimming does.

Anyone who's done it knows that it's an exhausting sport and a good all-round work out. You use virtually every muscle in your body.

It's a life skill, too. It's pretty much the only sport that could save your life on a day-to-day basis.

Stephen revels in Olympic glory

But it's not just about physical fitness. I've learnt so much on the social side - from dealing with people, to attending functions, to travelling the world. The sport has been so good to me.

And the pressures you face are incredible.

To stand up in front of millions of people and perform is an unbelievably daunting thing, and something that people couldn't really do unless they'd spent years getting used to it.

I've been swimming since I was 12 so I've got plenty of experience.

My parents wanted to find me an activity, mainly to stop me from arguing with my brother all the time.

They chose swimming and choir practice, but luckily for me I was much better at swimming!

The choir wasn't for Steve

I loved swimming straight away, and I remember being hugely inspired by watching the 1988 Olympics on television.

Most people remember Adrian Moorhouse's performance in the butterfly, but I always thought that stroke was a bit girly!

It was the butterfly that really inspired me. It looked so majestic - powerful but elegant at the same time.

It was then that I decided I wanted to wear the GB tracksuit - and 14 years on I finally achieved my dream.

Parry's butterfly tips

Work on your core body strength. Things like sit-ups, side sit-ups are important - exercises to do with bodyweight. That's because... The most important thing abut butterfly is having a strong leg kick Find your own rhythm - don't try and copy anyone else's. When you feel you're moving well through the water that's what you should focus on Whatever sport you choose, make sure you're comfortable with it and enjoy everything about it Do it for no one else but yourself, and have fun and be courteous along the way