Lindsey Van is a gold medalist at the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 2009, eight times Continental Cup winner, 13-time U.S. national ski jumping champion (normal and large hills) and more than 50 top-three finishes internationally. She is in conversation with Namita Nayyar President Women Fitness
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You must have started ski jumping at a young age as you reached the pinnacle of success in 2009 by winning the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Liberec. What factors you consider were responsible that made you achieve that?
Ms. Lindsey Van:
I started ski jumping at the age of 7. I think the important factors leading to the World Championships in 2009 were year round training for 14 years, mental toughness, and experience. That competition it was snowing and very windy, so the conditions were not ideal. In those type of competitions mental focus is extremely important.
You have to be able to focus on the jump itself, and not let the outside influences distract you such as weather, and the pressure of the competition. I had been practicing meditation and imagery.
Lindsey Van on Women Fitness:
Thanks for letting me tell you about my sport and myself
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
In 2008, your knee cartilage was crushed on the landing of a practice jump, you underwent knee surgery and five months of intense rehabilitation. You returned to competition after six months but injured your knee again. You have experienced four knee surgeries and a ruptured spleen. How you were able to overcome such a physical injury/setback and what advice you can give to fellow sports person in a similar situation?
Ms. Lindsey Van:
Injuries are part of being an elite athlete, and its something we all have to deal with. 2 months ago I had my 7th surgery to repair my ACL, meniscus, and some cartilage. For me it is very important to be mentally strong. Its very frustrating at times, and takes a lot of patience. I stay active as much as I can, and try to exercise the parts of my body that are still healthy. You have to focus on the end goal, and take it day by day.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
What exercises comprise your fitness regime or workout routine you shall like to share?
Ms. Lindsey Van:
I do most of my training in the summer and fall, because we travel during the winter to compete. I got to the gym 3 times a week to do either strength or power, and core. I am on the hill ski jumping 3-4 times a week. I do about 4 cardio session a week, usually mountain biking or hiking. I do yoga every day to loosen up and recover.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
Do you take some special diet or have a strict menu that you follow to remain healthy and physically fit?
Ms. Lindsey Van:
As an athlete I have to eat healthy to maximize my training, and stay healthy. Eating healthy makes me feel much better, and while traveling keeps me from getting sick. As I have gotten older I have noticed that nutrition is more important so the better I eat the better I feel.
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