Olympic Fueling: Beyond Race Day

Olympic athletes adopt rigorous daily fueling strategies that extend far beyond competition days, focusing on long-term recovery and resilience. Skier Jessie Diggins emphasizes that nourishment is a constant practice, integral to training and overall well-being, a philosophy echoed by Team USA dietitians.

Sports dietitians like Carrie Aprik and Maggie McCrudden develop personalized nutrition plans for athletes, considering individual preferences, allergies, and sport-specific energy needs. Consistency and flexibility in fueling are identified as key elements for athletes to thrive and remain resilient against challenges.

Bobsled driver Frank Del Duca structures his nutrition around training phases, prioritizing power and endurance as competition nears. He notes that proper fueling is essential for maintaining mental clarity and avoiding lethargy during critical moments.

Hydration emerges as a crucial strategy, particularly in the cold conditions of the Winter Games, where thirst can be suppressed. Athletes like Diggins proactively sip fluids throughout the day, even without feeling thirsty, to ensure optimal performance and recovery.

Maintaining fueling routines during global travel to the Games presents challenges like unfamiliar foods and schedule disruptions. The USOPC employs strategies such as packing familiar, trusted foods to mitigate risks of illness and stress, ensuring athletes have reliable nutrition options.