Ask an expert, “How fast can you do it?” and you might get the response, “It depends on the conditions.”

Because the conditions matter.

When I’m well-rested.
When the water is between 25° to 28° Celsius.
When it’s quiet.
When there’s no traffic.
When I have a team of at least six.
When I’m feeling loose.

Our performance in any situation depends on many factors. Mostly, “our best” means “the best we could do given the circumstances.”

And sometimes, those conditions — paired with our skill and preparation — are a recipe for pure magic.