He said: "I've decided.
 
"I've spoken a lot with Denis [Auguin, his coach].

"We've reached an agreement on a strategy that will take us up to London."

Bernard, who also won silver and bronze medals in the 4x100m freestyle and 50m freestyle in Beijing, will be 29 by the time of London but is determined to give it everything. 

He said: "The preparations start now.

"He [Auguin] was able to offer me a new project.

"It's something different and not necessarily easier."

Bernard will begin competing tomorrow in the French Championships with a view to earning a place in the squad for the European Championships in Budapest on August 9-15.