Fitness and exercise tips from Olympic athletes
The Olympics is a spectacular gathering of the world's top athletes and, this year, all eyes are on Vancouver to see who will take top honours at such winter games as skiing, skating, bobsled and curling.
It's safe to assume that every athlete who qualifies for the Olympics is in tip-top form as they prepare to compete on the world stage; and Canada's ladies are no different.
Want to know their secrets to achieving their personal -- and healthy -- best? From fitness and nutrition to rest and rejuvenation, here are some healthy words of wisdom from Canada's top female athletes:
Exercise tips
 | A long ski or hike with friends has to be the best way to enjoy a weekend morning. You get great company, enjoy the outdoors, and you get a workout without even noticing. Finish it off with a tasty lunch or brunch, and that's pretty much my #1 workout. -Perianne Jones, cross-country skiing
|
 | I think a really great workout is one that is a full-body workout. I like being challenged with new exercises I haven't tried before. I like circuit training when you can keep moving with less rest between sets. I also like to keep my workouts to a reasonable amount of time, I don't believe you get as much out of workouts that last too long. After a great workout, I feel like I have taken a positive step towards my long term goal. It's very satisfying, and provides me with energy for the rest of my day. |
 | For me, a really great workout needs to be challenging. I always feel my best after a workout that is intense and has challenged or pushed me in some way. Whether the challenge is small (getting to the gym) or big (a 50 km bike ride), or the workout is short or long, there is a sense of accomplishment that I get from pushing myself. I also get the most out of workouts when I have music to listen to. I find it gives me that extra bit of energy to push myself that much harder. |
