Jake Dalton may be familiar with St. Louis after competing here in the 2012 USA Gymnastics Championships, but don't expect to find him gobbling down toasted ravioli this weekend. The 24-year-old Olympian makes health a priority.
See also: St. Louis Hosts Olympic Trials for Gymnastics
Tuesday, June 21 is a typical day for Dalton: He wakes up at 7:00 a.m. and goes to his first workout—an hour of strength and conditioning—at 7:30 a.m. Then it’s breakfast time. “I’m a pretty big breakfast guy,” Dalton tells SLM. His usual breakfast consists of egg whites with mushrooms, fruit, toast, and maybe turkey bacon. He then has some downtime and another meal (oatmeal and eggs) before his main workout in the afternoon, which runs from 1:45 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. The three-to-four hour workout requires Dalton to refuel his body with more wholesome food. He has a first dinner of chicken, sweet potatoes, and salad, and then a second dinner of chicken and salad.
This regimented schedule differs from Dalton’s training schedule prior to the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, when Team USA finished in fifth place.
“Nutrition and health have been a big interest of mine in the last few years,” Dalton says. “I’ve gained a lot more knowledge about food and my nutrition and what I feel good doing.”
Dalton tracks his meals with MyFitnessPal and his sleep with Under Armour’s Record app and wristband. In order to be well-rested, Dalton is in bed most nights by 10 p.m.
The Olympian isn’t fazed by his grueling workout schedule because he has the support of his family and always makes time for fun. “I started a clothing line to continue to motivate people and keep them inspired to live a healthy life. I love hanging out with my wife and our two dogs—family’s a big thing—and I love being outdoors, camping, fires, hiking, anything that can get me outside when it’s nice and enjoyable out.”
Dalton will compete in the Men’s U.S. Gymnastics Olympic Trials today and Saturday at the Chaifetz Arena. Dalton’s advice to future Olympic hopefuls? “As long as you’re always learning and having fun, I think not only will you be successful, but that you’ll enjoy it.”
After this weekend’s competition, Dalton plans to celebrate by eating his favorite food: donuts.
See also: The Rundown: 9 Health and Fitness Events This Week in St. Louis
