Reflections on Nutrition from Olympic Champions as Winter Games Approach

With the 2026 Winter Olympics set to begin in Milan and Cortina, two of America’s most celebrated winter athletes, Apolo Ohno and Julia Mancuso, are sharing insights about the dedication that led to their podium finishes and the straightforward diets that sustained them.

Ohno and Mancuso, who collectively boast 12 Olympic medals, have left behind the competitive limelight, yet the nutritional principles that supported their stellar careers continue to play a significant role in their lives today.

Mancuso, an Olympic alpine skier active from 2002 to 2014, recalls a time before meal preparation services were common. To maintain her energy levels, she made sacrifices, even touring around Europe in a motorhome—once hitching a ride on a bus owned by Dolly Parton—to steer clear of unhealthy hotel meals. “If that wasn’t available, I’d often pack my personal toaster oven for healthier options,” she added.

“When I didn’t manage my eating well, it definitely reflected in my performance by season’s end,” she shared, speaking to FOX News Digital. Now a mother of three, who divides her time between Fiji and Hawaii, Mancuso emphasizes that these habits are even more crucial now. “It really affects how you feel at your core when you skip meals or don’t balance your macros,” she noted.

Ohno, who skated in three Olympics from 2002 to 2010, has a similar story. He learned the importance of nutrition progressively throughout his speed skating career. “In the beginning, I could get away with a less disciplined approach. But as I matured and my career evolved, nutrition became a cornerstone of my performance. By my last Olympics, it was essential,” he explained.

In the realm of precision sports like speed skating, Ohno emphasizes that proper nourishment is about more than just energy; it’s about body composition, recovery, and mental sharpness. “Once your body and brain are properly fueled, entering a flow state surprisingly becomes easier,” he said. “Everything from decision-making to mood and energy levels begins to become more complex when your nutrition isn’t on point.”

Though they may no longer chase Olympic gold, both athletes’ days remain filled with commitments to their families and careers. Ohno has transitioned to a successful career as a best-selling author and corporate advisor, while Mancuso balances motherhood with speaking gigs and work in the outdoor sector.

Nevertheless, they both maintain the hands-on dietary approach they honed during their active sporting days. Recently, they are teaming up with a meal service called Factor to introduce a limited-time “Gold Collection” that draws inspiration from their training diets, launching on February 12th. Mancuso’s menu features meals rich in endurance-focused ingredients like lean proteins and complex carbohydrates. Ohno’s offerings, on the other hand, emphasize strength and recovery, showcasing high-protein foods accompanied by whole grains and healthy fats. “I focus on protein now; it’s the simplest way for me to stay on track,” he stated.

Importantly, both athletes highlight a common misconception about elite athletes: that their nutritional regimes must be meticulously perfect. “It doesn’t need to be flawless,” said Mancuso, underscoring the significance of consistency. Ohno echoed her sentiments, especially for those inspired by Olympic athletes looking to adjust their own habits. “The best way to reach your goals is to keep it straightforward. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Prioritize nutrition, and everything else will align,” he advised.