Is Olympic-Level Training Unhealthy?

Will asks about the Olympic environment and Aly reflects on the extreme pressure and lack of recovery in elite sport.

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Episode notes

This week on the WHOOP Podcast, WHOOP Founder and CEO, Will Ahmed, sits down with 3x Olympic Gold Medalist, Aly Raisman to discuss the ins and outs of Aly’s gymnastics career. Aly opens up about her experience training, the intense pressures of elite competition, and how it took a toll on her body. Through her experience with burnout and anxiety, Aly shares the lessons she’s learned about recovery, self-care and taking care of her body and mind. Will and Aly go through Aly’s top WHOOP journal behaviors that help her feel recovered, such as gardening, learning, and time spent with loved ones.

This episode offers inspiring insight on resilience, balance, and the importance of listening to your body to support your overall health.

Show Notes:

(00:54) Aly Raisman on Growing Up in Boston

(02:10) Aly’s Introduction to Gymnastics

(03:14) Choosing Gymnastics At A Young Age: Training and Technique

(05:23) Drive As The Fuel For Greatness

(07:29) Building A Support System & Navigating Perfectionism

(11:20) Self-Motivation & Pushing Yourself To Be The Best

(14:28) Healthy vs Unhealthy Aspects of Being an Olympic Athlete

(20:31) Recovery in Olympic-Level Sport

(27:12) Nutrition and Body Image in Elite Gymnastics

(34:47) How Aly is Redefining Recovery