This is how Olympians stay fit during the Christmas season

Irresistible favorite dishes

Although it may seem like a sacrifice to remain steadfast in the delicacies of the holiday season, the training is for the French mountain biker Loana Lecomte also a pleasure in itself.

“It is true that it is not easy to exercise every day,” she said. “The first three or four sessions are hard, but once you get into a rhythm you really enjoy it…”

“In fact, one of the hormones that is released when you exercise is dopamine and I think it puts you in a second state that is so pleasurable… I’m addicted to exercise and I think the more you do it, the more addicted will.” Man.”

Other athletes even have two training sessions in one day, but also make it a point to find time for family and enjoy peace and quiet – especially after a year in which they have worked so hard to be among the best in the world Best to belong to.

For the German decathlon silver medalist living in the USA, Leo NeugebauerThis means treating yourself to some traditional dishes from home like schnitzel and currywurst. Last year, he successfully convinced a chef at the University of Texas to add some of his favorite dishes to the menu, as he showed on social media.

“I’m really happy that everyone has tried these dishes and got a taste of them here. “I’m from the region of Germany that’s famous for sauerkraut, so that’s something that’s served at most meals.”

The Italian taekwondo star Simone Alessio is also a fan of his local cuisine, and while he admits that the key to a successful holiday season is finding the right balance, the delicacies of southern Italy are something he will enjoy in moderation.

“The only secret to keeping myself in shape is not to overdo it,” he said after giving a list of his favorite Italian dishes, including soppressata (a cured Italian meat), nduja (a spreadable pork dish from Calabria) and Salami. “I like sweets and cold cuts, so I really need to eat right. And that’s all fine, because I’m definitely going to enjoy all the good things, but in the right way.”