Namita Nayyar:
You put the sporting track on fire at the 2024 European Short Track Speed Skating Championships that was held from 12th to 14th January 2024 in Gdańsk, Poland by winning Gold in the Women’s 1000 meters short track speed skating, Bronze medal in 500 m and another Bronze medal in 2000 m mixed relay. Elaborate more about these landmark achievements.
Hanne Desmet:
My first European title was in 2023; one year later I was able to successfully defend my title. In 2023 after winning the 1000m my brother also became European Champion; this was one of the most memorable moments in my career. There was so much excitement. To be able to share moments like these with my brother and my team is incredible.
In 2024, the first distance I fell with one lap to go while being in winning position. I had to flip the switch to come back confident and win the 1000m. In short track you definitely need a lot of mental toughness to be able to immediately go all out for the next race.
Namita Nayyar:
How winning the silver medal in Women’s 1000 meters short track speed skating at the 2021 World Short Track Speed Skating Championships play a catalyst to your meteoric rise as a speed skater.
Hanne Desmet:
This was my first Championships medal, it made me start to believe I could actually be competitive with the best in the world.
Namita Nayyar:
What exercises comprise your fitness regime or workout routine you may wish to share?
Hanne Desmet:
I train twice a day 6 days per week. Short track practices are long and require a lot of preparation. I skate every day and do biking, running, and weights outside of that. I love working hard and I love the feeling of improving.
Namita Nayyar:
How do you train your abs?
Hanne Desmet:
Consistency is the key. I do some kind of ab exercise every day. I’ll interrupt my school work and do a few exercises.
Namita Nayyar:
Do you take a special diet or have a strict menu that you follow?
Hanne Desmet:
I don’t believe in extreme dieting. I believe you can enjoy the things you like but with moderation. I enjoy eating healthy because I know it makes me feel better and perform better. But I also think it’s healthy to allow treating yourself every now and then.
Namita Nayyar:
Five foods you absolutely love and five you keep to a minimum.
Hanne Desmet:
I love candy, I need my sweets. My favorite food is a good pizza. I really like simple bread and some good cheese. Dark chocolate is also one of my favorites. I enjoy making all kinds of vegetables soups.
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