Olympian reveals how turmeric shots are preparing her for Paris 2024

World Championship runner reveals her fitness and wellness prep for the Olympics

With the Paris Olympics just weeks away, essential mental and physical preparations are in full swing, but what does it take to compete?

Speaking with Chill Tubs, World Championship middle-distance runner Jemma Reekie has revealed her wellness and fitness routines running up to her second Olympics representing team GB.

After just finishing 2^nd in the 800m race of the World Indoor Championships, as well as 5^th in the 1500 m European Championships and 2^nd in the British Athletic Championships, Jemma discusses her extensive exercise routines, including how she exercises six times per week, plus her diet plan, her wellness techniques and more.

Chill Tubs: What are your current wellbeing routines, particularly as you prepare for Paris?

Jemma: Over the past year I have come to realise how much wellbeing routine helps and started to listen and feel my body to see what works for me. I am a professional runner, so I exercise 6 days of the week. I like to begin my day with a hot water, lemon & honey before I eat my breakfast & coffee. I then stretch out for 15-20 minutes in preparation for my training for the day. I use my ice bath on rest day (Friday) mornings to begin the day well and help to flush out any inflammation before my training week begins again. On a training day I use an ice bath before bed as I find it helps my body recover and I sleep well after. I then read my book before I sleep. I had terrible habits of scrolling on my phone, but I have turned it round to looking after myself instead of time wasted.

Chill Tubs: Can you name three meals or types of food that are your go-to for a boost?

Jemma:

1. Dates covered with dark chocolate for a natural sugar boost and there are so many health benefits of dates

2. Turmeric shots for when I feel run down, these help me shake anything off quick

3. Porridge, peanut butter and honey to start the day, or a smoothie/smoothie bowl with homemade granola

Chill Tubs: What are your current fitness routines, is it more intense with the Olympics coming up?

Jemma: I run everyday bar a Friday. I like to stretch and do breathing exercises in between too, I also gym three times a week.

Chill Tubs: How do you prioritise self-care with such a busy lifestyle?

Jemma: I have learnt how investing in myself and wellbeing is just as or more important as my busy life. I am now able to do things to a higher level by prioritizing myself. Instead of spending time on screens or rushing about I’ve learnt to stop myself and say no when I know I need my own time to better myself.

Chill Tubs: Are there any exercises you swear by throughout your career?

Jemma: Walking is such a simple thing we all need to do more of. Get fresh air and clear mind, a refresh sometimes we all need.

Chill Tubs: What is causing you stress right now and how do you counteract it with relaxation?

Jemma: I am during my track/competition season so a lot of stress comes from physically and mentally, as well as travel, so I am trying to recover well by sleeping, eating, icing and having fun where I can in-between.

Chill Tubs: What are two wellbeing tips/fads you’d tell people to avoid?

Jemma:

1. Diets that are unstainable, try and find a lifestyle balance where you eat healthy and exercise.

2. Using supplements because they are trending without knowing what ingredients are in them, keep it simple and learn how to get things through food, as it’s cheaper and natural.