Photo credit: www.bustle.com
In Chill Chat, we explore the wellness routines of influential figures, covering their daily habits and strategies for relaxation. Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky shares insights into her morning routine, training commitments, and her collaboration with Athleta.
To achieve exceptional success in the pool, where she has amassed 14 Olympic medals, Katie Ledecky adheres to a demanding regime that begins at 5 a.m. each day. With a schedule encompassing around 25 hours of training weekly, Ledecky includes swimming on her rest days, underscoring her dedication.
The focus for Ledecky now shifts to the 800m freestyle in the upcoming 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Nevertheless, her commitment to her fans remains unwavering as she stops for photos and autographs wherever she goes. “It’s a privilege to brighten a young girl’s day with something as simple as a selfie or autograph,” Ledecky expresses. “I want them to experience the joy that can come from sports, no matter the discipline.”
Ledecky is also an active member of Athleta’s Power of She Collective, a group focused on empowering women and girls in the athletic world. Through March 10, the brand’s Power of She sweatshirts are available, with proceeds benefiting the Power of She Fund, which supports advocacy initiatives for women’s sports.
Not only does Ledecky aim to foster support for young athletes, but she is also preparing for the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. “I’m fully focused on this journey. It takes dedication over the next four years, but it’s especially exciting having the Games so close to home,” she notes.
In this piece, we delve into Ledecky’s typical day, her nutritional choices, and her techniques for maintaining calm under pressure.
What does an average day look like for you?
Ledecky starts her day pre-dawn, rising at 5 a.m. to prepare for a training session that begins at 6. Her morning consists of personal preparations and a light snack before heading to the pool for a rigorous two-hour swim followed by an hour of gym work. Her day includes a second practice in the evening alongside important recovery time, which allows her to recharge effectively. With a weekly training routine spanning 20 to 25 hours, she swims nearly ten times and hits the gym five days a week.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
Breakfast is a favorite for Ledecky, who typically enjoys two meals. The first is a light pre-training option, while a more substantial breakfast follows her morning workout. “My go-to is eggs, toast, and some veggies, balancing protein and carbohydrates. I also enjoy a black coffee or latte occasionally,” she shares.
What does an Olympic-level workout look like?
The variety of Ledecky’s training is key. Her routine shifts from swimming to strength training, which includes weightlifting sessions on designated days. “We focus on exercises like squats, deadlifts, and snatches during our ‘dry land’ workouts. On specific days, I’ll work with prowlers, stationary bikes, and engage in sprint drills. We also ensure to incorporate recovery sessions into the weekly plan,” she describes.
Do you use any skincare products?
Like many swimmers, Ledecky deals with skin challenges due to chlorine exposure. “I find Aquaphor to be a savior. It acts as an effective barrier and I use it after training,” she explains.
How do you stay calm before a competition, especially in high-pressure situations like the Olympics?
For Ledecky, perspective is everything. “I remind myself it’s just another meet. The pool dimensions and water conditions are the same as always. My hard work reassures me I’m ready to give my best performance,” she states.
Do you ever get a day off?
Every Sunday marks a lighter day for Ledecky. Although she doesn’t engage in a structured workout, she still enjoys a “Sunday swim.” This relaxed practice is less intense and allows her simply to enjoy the water without pressure.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Source
www.bustle.com