With all eyes focused on the Olympics, young athletes all over the country are gearing up to improve their own game.
U.S. News and World Report polled America’s 2014 Olympian women to get an inside look at what keeps them fit and focused:
Work out with a buddy – Sharing workout routines with a friend keeps you motivated and provides encouragement. “Best of all, it keeps you committed,” said figure skater Ashley Wagner.
Ignore the competition – Alpine skier Stacey Cook tries not to worry about competitors. “You stand the best chance of winning if you put your energy into improving your personal best.”
Skip the last run – When practicing, the final time down the mountain is the most dangerous, said snowboarder Arielle Gold. “If you’re tired, skip that last run or you open yourself up to injury.”
Stop a cold in its tracks – Half pipe snowboarder Kelly Clark swears by ginger tea. “At the first sign of a cold, chop some raw ginger, steep it in boiling water and add some honey and lemon.”
Defog the goggles – While you’re on the chairlift, put your fogged up goggles under your armpit inside your jacket. According to freestyle skier Heather McPhie, “it works every time.”
Soothe dry, cracked hands – Intense cold over many hours does a number on your hands, notes ice dancer Meryl Davis. She says, “Oil of Olay, which is made for faces, does a better job of healing my hands than any hand lotion I’ve tried.”
Stay hydrated – We don’t sweat as much when exercising in cold weather, said bobsledder Elana Meyers. “But dehydration causes stomach cramps, so drink 2-3 glasses of water at each meal, and more during every workout.”
Listen to your body – Work through soreness, but not pain, said ice hockey’s Julie Chu. “If it’s pain, pinpoint where it’s coming from, and treat it right away.”
