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We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Volleyball Icon Misty May-Treanor in Two-Piece Workout Gear "Finished in 1:36"

A good time at Hydrox Dallas.

Volleyball Icon Misty May-Treanor in Two-Piece Workout Gear "Finished in 1:36"
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Misty May-Treanor is competing at Hydrox Dallas – in her workout gear. In a new social media post the volleyball icon shows off her amazing figure in fitness gear as she competes. “Survived…finished in 1:36,” she wrote across the Instagram video. “Thank you @adrienne.kazemi for pushing me to do this…what an experience, very enlightening. I survived….was hoping to get 1:30 but it is ok I was not a casualty and finished. My titanium is still moving. See you in Anaheim @hyroxamerica,” she added in the caption. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care? Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.


Weight Lifting

“I have tended to go back to Olympic-style lifting. Cleans and squats for me are important. Machines aren’t tailored for everybody’s body. You are able to move in only one plane. Olympic lifts are explosive, closed-chain movements. We take off of the ground,” she told the New York Times. “I head from the beach to the weight room. I used to spend a couple of hours in the weight room, but really an hour is long enough. I lift twice a week, and on other days incorporate more core yoga and different exercises. It’s important to listen to your body. I will shut it down if I’m tired. Before there were times I would push through.”

Yoga and Pilates

silhouette photography of woman doing yogaPhoto by kike vega on Unsplash

Misty does a lot of different workouts. “I take Pilates. Yoga is important,” she told the New York Times. There is a laundry list of reasons to do yoga, explains Harvard Health. “Researchers found that people who practiced yoga for at least 30 minutes once a week for at least four years, gained less weight during middle adulthood,” they said. “People who were overweight actually lost weight. Overall, those who practiced yoga had lower body mass indexes (BMIs) compared with those who did not practice yoga. Researchers attributed this to mindfulness. Mindful eating can lead to a more positive relationship with food and eating.”

Working on Little Muscle Groups

“It’s just as important to work on the little muscle groups as well as the big muscle groups,” says Misty.”People, when they train, go to gyms. I call them nightclub bodies — ginormous up top, and legs are little sticks. You see a lot of people and they forget you can’t leave the little muscles behind. When the bigger muscle groups fatigue and you’re not strong in the smaller muscle groups, that’s when injuries occur.”

Protein

a bunch of eggs are in a cartonPhoto by engin akyurt on Unsplash

Misty focuses on eating a lot of protein. She is a big egg eater, and her trainer "doesn't think bacon is a bad thing,” she told ESPN. After a workout, she makes sure to fuel up on protein. She might eat a turkey patty or a protein bar. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Morning Workouts

May-Treanor likes to sweat in the morning. “It’s a great start to my day, it gets the blood flowing, and I feel my energy picks up after”—all great things for busting you out of a chilly morning stupor. Plus, since the sun sets super early this time of year, rising and grinding—even if it’s just taking your dog for a walk, says May-Treanor—means you get to better enjoy those cozy nighttime cold weather activities, like hot chocolate or a glass of wine and a movie in. “When it does start to get dark, that’s when you want to kind of settle down,” she told Women’s Health.

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Volleyball Icon Misty May-Treanor in Two-Piece Workout Gear "Finished in 1:36"
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Misty May-Treanor is competing at Hydrox Dallas – in her workout gear. In a new social media post the volleyball icon shows off her amazing figure in fitness gear as she competes. “Survived…finished in 1:36,” she wrote across the Instagram video. “Thank you @adrienne.kazemi for pushing me to do this…what an experience, very enlightening. I survived….was hoping to get 1:30 but it is ok I was not a casualty and finished. My titanium is still moving. See you in Anaheim @hyroxamerica,” she added in the caption. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care? Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.

Weight Lifting

“I have tended to go back to Olympic-style lifting. Cleans and squats for me are important. Machines aren’t tailored for everybody’s body. You are able to move in only one plane. Olympic lifts are explosive, closed-chain movements. We take off of the ground,” she told the New York Times. “I head from the beach to the weight room. I used to spend a couple of hours in the weight room, but really an hour is long enough. I lift twice a week, and on other days incorporate more core yoga and different exercises. It’s important to listen to your body. I will shut it down if I’m tired. Before there were times I would push through.”

Yoga and Pilates

silhouette photography of woman doing yogaPhoto by kike vega on Unsplash

Misty does a lot of different workouts. “I take Pilates. Yoga is important,” she told the New York Times. There is a laundry list of reasons to do yoga, explains Harvard Health. “Researchers found that people who practiced yoga for at least 30 minutes once a week for at least four years, gained less weight during middle adulthood,” they said. “People who were overweight actually lost weight. Overall, those who practiced yoga had lower body mass indexes (BMIs) compared with those who did not practice yoga. Researchers attributed this to mindfulness. Mindful eating can lead to a more positive relationship with food and eating.”

Working on Little Muscle Groups

“It’s just as important to work on the little muscle groups as well as the big muscle groups,” says Misty.”People, when they train, go to gyms. I call them nightclub bodies — ginormous up top, and legs are little sticks. You see a lot of people and they forget you can’t leave the little muscles behind. When the bigger muscle groups fatigue and you’re not strong in the smaller muscle groups, that’s when injuries occur.”

Protein

a bunch of eggs are in a cartonPhoto by engin akyurt on Unsplash

Misty focuses on eating a lot of protein. She is a big egg eater, and her trainer "doesn't think bacon is a bad thing,” she told ESPN. After a workout, she makes sure to fuel up on protein. She might eat a turkey patty or a protein bar. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Morning Workouts

May-Treanor likes to sweat in the morning. “It’s a great start to my day, it gets the blood flowing, and I feel my energy picks up after”—all great things for busting you out of a chilly morning stupor. Plus, since the sun sets super early this time of year, rising and grinding—even if it’s just taking your dog for a walk, says May-Treanor—means you get to better enjoy those cozy nighttime cold weather activities, like hot chocolate or a glass of wine and a movie in. “When it does start to get dark, that’s when you want to kind of settle down,” she told Women’s Health.

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FACT CHECKED BY Alberto Plaza
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Kerri Walsh is being honored – in her workout gear. In a new social media post the volleyball star shows off her washboard abs in a sports bra. “Excited to announce that I will be honored at the Great Sports Legends Dinner this September! 🎉 It’s a privilege to be recognized alongside so many incredible athletes. Looking forward to an evening of celebration and supporting The Buoniconti Fund’s mission. 🏆 #SportsLegendsDinner #MakingADifference,” she captioned the Instagram post. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care? Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.


1. Volleyball

Kerri’s main form of fitness is volleyball. She does “three hours of beach volleyball practice a day,” she told Muscle & Fitness. According to one study, recreational volleyball played with fewer players on a smaller court can be an effective training modality to stimulate decrease in LDL cholesterol and resting HR.

2. Cross-Training

“I grew up playing a variety of sports, and I learned so much about my body by doing that. Today, I keep up a well-rounded cross-training system that challenges me from top to bottom. I try to make sure my body never gets comfortable, so it can keep evolving in the way I want it to,” she told Muscle & Fitness.

3. Protein

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Kerri makes sure to eat enough protein. “I want to be the best I can be, and there’s no way I can do that unless I’m fueling my body properly with the right nutrition. I’m a huge advocate of starting the day off right at breakfast. I’m a creature of habit, and as a crazy-busy mom I tend to make a lot of shakes for breakfast that I quickly drink while getting my family ready in the morning. I use unsweetened vanilla almond milk like Almond Breeze, vanilla whey protein, kale or spinach, chia seeds, oats, and honey and blend it up to drink while I’m on the run. Between morning and afternoon workouts I’ll have another shake, or a protein bar, or a turkey sandwich on Paleo bread with mustard and avocado. It’s important to get protein in soon after my workouts. I also drink a lot of water since that helps with recovery, mood, and hunger,” she told Muscle & Fitness.

4. Weightlifting

“I also do fast-twitch workouts twice a week with Olympic lifting and plyometrics. Staying strong and flexible is how I stay healthy. I’m a big fan of weightlifting to make me strong and prevent injury. It’s also great for metabolism, confidence, posture, and bone density,” she told Muscle & Fitness.

5. Pilates

Kerri also does Pilates. “I do Pilates three times a week—on the reformer, the mat, and the beach,” she told Muscle & Fitness. “Pilates has helped me so much in my career as well. I worked hard to get my strength back in my core and strengthen my upper back, especially after breastfeeding.”

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20 Amazing Bodies of Female Athletes

Here’s how they stay in shape.

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FACT CHECKED BY Alberto Plaza
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Get into the training, mindset, and lifestyle choices of twenty remarkable athletes. From Simone Biles to Carli Lloyd, who believes in balance and occasional indulgence, each athlete brings their unique approach to their respective sports. Misty May-Treanor's rigorous exercises, Kerri Walsh-Jennings' focus on recovery, and Serena Williams' varied workouts all demonstrate the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of their fields. As they share their secrets to success, it becomes clear that physical fitness, mental strength, and self-care are essential components of their journeys.


1. Simone Biles

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Simone Biles isn’t just a great athlete, she’s also an advocate for survivors. She opened up about testifying against Larry Nassar on Today. “For so many years to go through everything that I’ve gone through, put on a front, I’m proud of myself, and I’m happy that I can be a leader for the survivors and bring courage to everybody speaking up, so I’m happy to be a voice for them.”

2. Misty May-Treanor

U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame Class of 2019 Induction CeremonyJamie Schwaberow/Getty Images

Gold medalist beach volleyball player, Misty May-Treanor shared some of her favorite exercises in an interview with Women Fitness. “I love olympic lifting (cleans, jerks, snatches), squatting and explosive jump drills. I also implement track and hill workouts with a running instructor. Pilates helps me maintain a strong and healthy core since that is important in our sport. Since I am not the tallest player out there at times, my jump has to be strong from the very match to the very last match. Recovery is equally as important to the lifting as well and that comprises of massage, ice baths, and stretching.”

3. Kerri Walsh-Jennings

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Olympic gold medalist, Kerri Walsh-Jennings, opened up about her approach to training in an interview with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. “When at home, we will have double and triple days all the time. When I get into competition, I want to be fresh and play good volleyball. It is like a mental game. For me, I am going to try something new, add another workout and see how I feel. You need to be humble enough to keep it and push through, or if to much, adjust. It is so important to listen to your body and sometimes the hardest work you have to do is chill out and recover and fine tune.”

4. April Ross

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Bronze-medal winning beach volleyball player, April Ross, opened up about her diet to Today. She says that there’s one thing she makes sure to cut out of her diet. "Sugar is so bad for your body. If you drink soda, the sugar causes inflammation. And it's bad for your joints, so, as an athlete, your joints are going to be more inflamed and you're going to be more prone to injury.”

5. Gabby Douglas

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Gabby Douglas tells HollywoodLife that she does a variety of things to keep herself in shape. “I’m used to doing the same thing every single day, whereas now I get to switch it up. Like, today we’ll do HIIT. Today we’ll do trampoline. Today we’ll do a dance workout. Today we’ll just dive in and it’s been fun even to be creative with myself, coming up with workouts that I find enjoyable because I believe you should be having fun when you workout. I love hard work and I love to sweat but at the same time though, you should love what you do.”

6. Serena Williams

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Serena Williams is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time. One of her secrets for staying fit is doing a variety of workouts. “For me, it's so important to mix it up,” she told Fitness Magazine. “I ran, and then I biked. Then I did elliptical. That didn't work out so well, because it was boring, so I tried yoga. I started dancing because I couldn't train when I was sick. We started making up moves, and it was fun. Now I run for 10 minutes, and then I dance.”

7. Venus Williams

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Tennis legend Venus Williams opened up about her decision to go on a plant-based diet with The Beet. “When I was diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome back in 2011, I had to make some major lifestyle changes in order to put my health first. After trying everything the doctor suggested, I continued to experience muscle and joint pain, and constant fatigue. But when I started exploring a plant-based diet to help reduce my inflammation and support my immune system, I loved the way it made me feel, so I kept going.”

8. Julie Johnston ErtzUS Women’s Soccer Team star, Julie Johnston Ertz opened up about her exercise routine with Prevention. “I think core is really important,” she says. “Cause it’s the center of your body. C​​ore machines are great but I do everything on the floor. If I’m doing a plank, I like to do step outs with my feet. I like to elevate even a little more."Alex MorganIn addition to taking care of her body, Alex Morgan also takes care of her mind. She shared how she manages any anxiousness with The Beet. “I tell myself: ‘Take a breath and enjoy the journey I'm going on now.’ It's overwhelming to think about going somewhere in the future, so I am living in the now and remembering to breathe.Candace ParkerWNBA champion Candace Parker talked about how she approaches basketball with SBNation.com. “I think simplicity has always been difficult for me. I think physically because you know, I’ve been versatile and have played multiple positions. I think simplicity was always, you know, me dribbling and me doing this and whatever. And now I’ve just learned that simplicity is key, doing things with the least amount of motion is going to benefit me greatly. So I think that is the biggest thing to me is just yes, I can dribble and do that, but it’s more beneficial for me to be able to do it with less motion.”Nastia LiukinOlympic gymnast, Nastia Liukin, shared some of her wellness tips with Today. "I think the most important thing to know is, you'll never regret a workout when it's over. And it's just hard to tell yourself that before you've done it. But just try to remember how you feel after your workout, and know that when you feel good, you look good, and you have more confidence, and so I think that that's really important."Shawn JohnsonWhile expecting her first child, Shawn Johnson and her husband Andrew East did a lot of workouts together. She told Us Weekly, “We always thought [when we were] dating that we were going to be that couple that works out together, but we really can’t work out together because he says I’m too intense. And then I got pregnant, and then we’re matched now, my intensity. So we work out now that I’m pregnant, which is funny.” Adds the gold medalist, “Hey, gymnasts are intense.”Jordyn WieberGymnast Jordyn Wieber told StyleCaster that she struggled with insecurities growing up.“The older I got, the more I realized my body can do amazing things that not a lot of other kids at my school could do,” Wieber says. “So I tried my best to embrace that, and once I made the Olympics team, I was like, ‘Woah! OK. Now I know where you are all the time.’ I started to appreciate my muscles a lot more rather than thinking my body was not as good as the other girls in my school because I looked different than them.”Carli LloydCarli Lloyd opened up about her diet to NJ.com. She says that while she eats healthy, she also believes in indulging once in a while. “Well, I rarely eat carbs, like pasta, pizza or bread, or fried, greasy foods. They just don't make me feel good. But I do enjoy stopping at my favorite pizza place in Philly!...Only every now and then, and only in moderation.”Lindsey VonnLindsey Vonn tells Women’s Health that when she was competing in skiing, she wanted to break the mold. "I was always just myself,” she says. “You can be strong and feminine and opinionated and wear makeup and do all those things at the same time. You don't have to be the stereotypical athlete. You can be different. There's no limit to what opportunities are out there [for you], you just have to go get them."Lindsey JacobellisLindsey Jacobellis opened up about what exercises she likes to do on the road in an interview with Women Fitness. “On the road workouts can be challenging when gyms are hard to find, but not impossible. 1. Walking lunges with dumbbells 2. Single leg RDL (Russian dead lifts) 3. Hanging leg raises 4.Traditional or wide leg back squats 5. Bent over single arm rows (These exercises can be done when there are limited weights to work with in a hotel gym.)”Mirai NagasuFigure skater Mirai Nagasu opened up about her mindset for competitions in an interview with TeamUSA.com. “I just want to believe in myself, and, I know it’s the cheesiest thing to say, but believe in that 5-year-old girl who started this dream,” she said. “I know I’m mentally strong. I went to the Olympics when I was 16 and ended up in fourth place, beating all these people who were beating me consistently. I know it’s within me. I just have to pull it out at the right moment.”Carissa MooreCarissa Moore shared some of her favorite workouts in an interview with Balance The Grind. “I work out with my trainer three times each week, and we do a lot of circuit training. I don’t actually use too many weights; it’s mostly body weight. I train to make sure I can get in the water and do what I love every day. I love burpees, skaters and mountain climbers. I do intervals, like 45 seconds on, 15 seconds off. My regimen is always changing, because I get bored if it’s the same workout. Each week I go to Pilates once and I usually go for a run twice.”Tia BlancoTia Blanco shared some of her favorite wellness products with POPSugar. She says that she owns a juicer, and puts it to good use. “I love to go to the farmers' market and load up on a bunch of local produce in season that is great for juicing," she says. "I always find myself juicing celery, lemon, apples, and parsley. Sometimes I will do shots of turmeric and ginger to spice things up."Louise HazelLouise Hazel opened up about her diet in an interview with WhoWhatWear. "I grab a banana and a bottle of water and a bowl of gluten-free muesli with almond milk. I recently found out that I am lactose intolerant using a DNAFit test, and I would recommend this to anyone who is taking their health and fitness seriously. It will give you a blueprint from which to make informed decisions about your diet and fitness regimen."

Beach Volley Campionato Italiano Assoluto Gold - Day 2
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FACT CHECKED BY Alberto Plaza
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Marta Menegatti is an accomplished professional beach volleyball player, celebrated for her athletic achievements that include sixteen World Tour medals (two gold, seven silver, and seven bronze) and accolades from the European Championships. With appearances at the Olympics and a dedication to her sport, Marta exemplifies commitment and excellence. In September, she shared a nostalgic photo from the 2024 Games on Instagram, captioning it, “Olympic memories.” Here’s a closer look at how Marta stays active, healthy, and at the top of her game.


1. She Plays Volleyball

Playing volleyball means that Menegatti is benefiting from the sport’s many health benefits. USA Volleyball states, “Participating in any sport has benefits, but volleyball offers the opportunity for lessons that few other sports can. The volleyball community is a place where everyone is welcome and you can find a lifetime of play and competition. Volleyball brings families together to play and learn and offers the opportunity to create lifelong friendships and bonds. From character-building skills such as leadership, teamwork, respect and communication to the physical benefits of staying healthy and active, here are some of the things you can expect to gain by playing volleyball.”

2. She Runs

Menegatti likes to run to keep herself in shape. She is seen doing so in this Instagram post of herself training. Valley Oaks Health states that running has a lot of benefits. “After going for a run, your body experiences a drop in the stress hormone cortisol. This reduction diminishes feelings of stress, allowing you to go about the rest of your day with less tension and anxiety. In addition to mitigating stress, running also invokes feelings of calmness. Following a run, your body releases chemicals called endocannabinoids. These chemicals flow through your bloodstream and into your brain, relaxing your mind and body.”

3. She Lifts Weights

Menegatti likes to lift weights to keep herself in shape. She shared this video on Instagram of herself using a barbell at the gym. ACE Fitness states that using weights has a lot of benefits. “Strength training with heavy weights improves muscle definition. Muscle definition occurs as the result of muscles remaining in a state of semi-contraction and heavy strength training recruits the larger type II muscle fibers responsible for a muscle’s appearance.”

4. She Hikes

Menegatti likes to hike to keep herself in shape. She shares a lot of hiking photos on Instagram. Menegatti shared this photo of herself hiking by the ocean, and this photo of herself on a trail. Piedmont states that hiking has a lot of benefits. “Hiking is a weight-bearing exercise that builds muscle mass and helps prevent osteoporosis. Hiking can help you manage your weight. It is a joint-friendly form of exercise that can keep arthritis sufferers more limber and mobile.”

5. She Does Yoga

Menegatti shared this video on Instagram of herself doing yoga. Harvard Health states that yoga has a lot of benefits. “Yoga develops inner awareness. It focuses your attention on your body's abilities at the present moment. It helps develop breath and strength of mind and body. It's not about physical appearance. Yoga studios typically don't have mirrors. This is so people can focus their awareness inward rather than how a pose — or the people around them — looks. Surveys have found that those who practiced yoga were more aware of their bodies than people who didn't practice yoga. They were also more satisfied with and less critical of their bodies. For these reasons, yoga has become an integral part in the treatment of eating disorders and programs that promote positive body image and self-esteem.”

VOLLEYBALL: SEP 03 AVP Chicago Open
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FACT CHECKED BY Alberto Plaza
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Beach volleyball champion Sara Hughes has been playing since she was eight years old, and was even mentored by Misty May-Treanor. Now Hughes, 29, is heading for Paris in June, and is doing everything she can to prepare for the big event. The athlete shared a video of herself wearing Nike shorts and a sports bra, lowering herself into an ice bath and then breathing through the initial cold shock. “It’s gotta feel so good on that shoulder 💪🏻,” a fan commented. Here’s how Hughes stays fit, focused, and ready for Olympic gold.


1. Strength Training

Hughes frequently posts videos of herself doing strength training workouts with a personal trainer. She also uses resistance bands to build muscle, endurance, and burn fat. “My favorite place this pre-season! Couldn’t do it without @mykelshannonjenkins & @officialbrycejenkins 💪🏼,” she captioned an Instagram post.

2. Box Jumps

Hughes is a big fan of box jumps, a plyometric exercise. “This exercise trains triple extension and flexion of the key joints – hips, knees, and ankles – and related muscles – quads, hamstrings, quads and calves – used in running,” UK Athletics Level 3 performance coach Graeme Woodward tells Runner’s World. “And also requires a significant neuromuscular contribution which benefits speed qualities.’

3. Misty May-Treanor Mentor

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Hughes grew up watching Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor train at the beach. “For a long time, I was terrified to talk to her,” Hughes told The Athletic. “Having her so close, it was crazy.” May-Treanor noticed the young athlete and became her mentor. “I grew up putting my name on a paper on a pole and playing to stay on the court, and Sara hit the tail end of that,” May-Treanor said. “Bill [Lovelace] had those little kids doing drills and playing alongside adults and in four-on-four tournaments. She’s one of the last of that breed. We all know each other. As an older athlete, you want to take the sport under your wing. I was in her shoes once.”

4. Paris 2024 Dreams

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Hughes has high hopes for Paris 2024. "It would probably be the best feeling in the world," she told Olympics.com. "It's my number one goal, and to get to do it with Kelly [Cheng] is even more special. So we just got to keep moving forward and keep doing well in tournaments and hope we'll stay on track to get there."

5. Ice Baths

Hughes regularly incorporated ice baths into her recovery routine. Studies show ice baths can help with pain and inflammation after training. “Some patients who have swelling and inflammation find great relief from soaking in an ice bath,” sports medicine physician Dominic King, DO, tells Cleveland Clinic. “Start low and go slow. Don’t go too cold and don’t go for more than five minutes, just to make sure you can tolerate it. There is some research that shows that after two to three minutes, additional benefits taper off."

Ana Zelu is pictured at an open-air market.
Ana Zelu/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Ana Zelu is a professional model and social media influencer. She is known for her content in nature. Zelu recently shared a post on Instagram of herself on a surfboard in the ocean. She captioned it, “Yesterday was such a fun shoot, I just had to share these with you 🤍 🛥️But picture number #4?? That photobomb totally got me 😂 Which picture is your favorite ?🌊”

She Swims

As you can see from her post, Zelu likes to swim. The Mayo Clinic states that swimming has a lot of benefits. “Swimming is often touted as a great workout for all ages, offering benefits not only for the body, but also for the mind. As a form of exercise, swimming keeps your heart rate up and builds muscle strength. It also can be a great form of stress relief.”

She Doesn't Compare Herself to Others

Zelu shares a lot of her thoughts on Instagram. In this post, she talked about no longer comparing herself to others. “Dear Diary 💭📝, Today’s contemplation led me to a profound understanding of the detrimental impact comparison has on our lives. It’s like a silent intruder, subtly creeping into our thoughts and poisoning our perception of ourselves and others. It’s a universal struggle, one that weighs heavily on the hearts of many. I’ve come to realize that comparison is the ultimate thief of joy. It robs us of our ability to appreciate our own journey and achievements, as we constantly measure ourselves against an idealized version of others. I’ve resolved to break free from its grasp. We should choose to celebrate our own unique path, recognizing that each step forward is a triumph in itself. Rather than fixating on external benchmarks set by others, I’m focusing on personal growth and development. Whether it’s through learning new skills, cultivating gratitude, or simply practicing self-compassion, every effort counts.”

She Hikes

Zelu is seen on a hike in the previous Instagram post. Harvard Health states that hiking is very beneficial. “Like brisk walking, hiking is a good way to improve your cardiovascular fitness, particularly if your route includes some hills, which will force your heart to work harder. Taking a hike on the slightly uneven surface of a trail also provides a natural way to engage the core muscles in your torso and to hone your balance skills.”

She’s Resilient

Resilience is another important thing to Zelu. She talked about this in the caption of this Instagram post. “Dear Diary 💭📝, I witnessed something truly remarkable that touched my heart deeply. It’s amazing how people can go through the toughest storms in life and yet remain gentle, patient, and kind. I saw someone who faced challenges that would break most people, yet they chose to respond with grace and humility. Their ability to stay calm and compassionate in the face of adversity is nothing short of admirable. It made me realize the beauty of resilience – the strength to keep going even when life throws its hardest punches. These individuals not only endure the storms but also emerge from them with a spirit that shines brighter than before. Their example reminds me of the power of kindness and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the darkest of times. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there is beauty to be found 💕🫶”

She’s Accepted Herself

Zelu talked about the importance of acceptance in this Instagram post’s caption. “Dear Diary 💭📝, Today has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but amidst it all, I feel like I’ve taken a step closer to the right direction. Letting go of the past is like shedding a heavy coat I’ve been carrying for far too long. It’s not easy to release the memories, the pain, the regrets, but today, I made a choice to loosen the grip they had on me. It’s like taking a deep breath after being underwater for too long—refreshing and liberating. Forgiving myself has been a journey filled with tears and moments of self-doubt. But today, I finally understood that I deserve the same forgiveness and understanding I give to others. It’s like giving myself a warm hug, wrapping myself in kindness and acceptance.”

Beauty

Ludovica Pagani Swears By These 5 Habits

Here’s how she stays in shape.

Ludovica Pagani at the "Maldoror" red carpet during the 81st Venice International Film Festival
Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Italian influencer and TV host Ludovica Pagani isn’t just known for her stunning looks—she’s also admired for her dedication to fitness and healthy living. Whether she’s sharing workout routines or showing off nutritious meals on Instagram, Pagani’s followers can’t get enough of her beach-ready physique. But how does she maintain such an enviable figure? It turns out, Pagani has a few go-to habits that keep her in top shape year-round. From her favorite workouts to her clean eating choices, here are the five habits Ludovica Pagani swears by for her beach body.

She Does Pilates

Ludovica Pagani poses in a bikini

Ludovica Pagani/Instagram

Pagani likes to do Pilates to keep herself in shape. She is seen doing exercises on a reformer in this Instagram video. According to The Cleveland Clinic, Pilates has a lot of benefits. “There’s quite a bit of stretching in Pilates — which translates to improved flexibility. In addition to expanding the range of activities you can do, flexibility may protect you from injury, help your muscles relax and help you retain both mobility and range of motion as you get older.”

She Likes Sweet Potatoes

Ludovica Pagani arrives to a premiere

Vincenzo Lombardo/Getty Images

Pagani makes sure to eat healthy. In the previous Instagram video, she is seen cutting up sweet potatoes. Reid Health states that they are very healthy. “Eating potassium-rich sweet potatoes helps promote a healthy heart. Higher potassium intake allows you to excrete more sodium lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk for heart disease according to the American Heart Association.”

She Does Squats

Ludovica Pagani doing squats

Ludovica Pagani/Instagram

Pagani shared this video on Instagram of herself in the gym. In it, she is seen doing regular squats and split squats with a weight. Piedmont says that squats are very beneficial. “Whether you’re hoping to tone your muscles, strengthen your core or just improve overall health, squats are one of the best exercises you can do.”

She Strength Trains

Ludovica Pagani waves to fans as she arrives in Venice for the Venice Film Festival

Jacopo Raule/FilmMagic

In the previous Instagram video, Pagani is seen doing a lot of strength training exercises. Strength training has a lot of benefits. The Mayo Clinic states, “Strength training may enhance your quality of life and improve your ability to do everyday activities. Strength training can also protect your joints from injury. Building muscle also can contribute to better balance and may reduce your risk of falls. This can help you maintain independence as you age.”

She Boxes

Ludovica Pagani is fit in boxing gear

Ludovica Pagani/Instagram

Pagani likes to box to keep herself in shape. She shared these photos on Instagram of herself with boxing gloves. Boxing is an aerobic exercise, which means it has a lot of benefits. Harvard Health states, “Aerobic exercise gets your heart pumping and helps lower the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can strengthen bones and muscles, burn more calories, and lift mood. Aerobics can also boost your endurance, which helps you climb a flight of stairs or walk farther.”

Fitness

Mica Viciconte Gets "a Little Sun"

Here’s how she stays in shape.

Mica Viciconte
Mica Viciconte/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Mica Viciconte is a TV personality. She is known for participating in Combate Argentina. A few weeks ago, Viciconte took a beach vacation in Mexico. She shared some highlights of her trip on Instagram. In them, Viciconte posed in different swimsuits. She captioned the post, “A bit of ☀️ over here 👈”

She's Consistent

Viciconte makes sure to stay consistent with her wellness routine. She talked about this in the caption of this workout video on Instagram. “Eating well and exercising regularly helps you maintain your weight and reduce your risk of disease. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can bring many benefits, including more energy, happiness, health, and even a longer life. It's something we all know but we always make excuses for. So hopefully you can start moving your body little by little and eat a little better and obviously enjoy something delicious on the weekends 😋.”

She Does Squats

Mica Viciconte does squats

Mica Viciconte/Instagram

In the previous Instagram video, Viciconte is seen doing squats. Allina Health reports that squats are very beneficial to do. “The squat is one of the all-around best exercises to do for your lower body. It strengthens and tones muscles in your thighs, butt and calves and improves posture, balance, flexibility and inner core strength. Squatting also improves bone mineral density to keep your bones strong. Include squats in your exercise routine two to three days a week to reap the benefits from this dynamite move.”

She Does Hip Thrusts

Mica Viciconte does hip thrusts

Mica Viciconte/Instagram

Viciconte is also seen doing hip thrusts in her Instagram video. Gymless states that the exercise has a lot of health benefits. “Hip thrusts, as a compound movement, aid in increasing lower body strength and power, enhancing athletic abilities such as running, jumping, and powerlifting. By strengthening the posterior chain muscles, you can enhance your posture and lower the risk of back pain and muscle strain. Strong glutes and hamstrings contribute to hip and knee stability, minimizing injury risks in sports and daily life.”

She Uses A Stationary Bike

Mica Viciconte uses a stationary bike

Mica Viciconte/Instagram

Viciconte is seen using a stationary bike in the previous Instagram video. Doing this can help strengthen your muscles. Penn State PRO Wellness explained, “Riding a stationary bike can help build strength in your legs and lower body, especially if you use a higher resistance. The pedaling action can help strengthen your calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps. Additionally, it can work the muscles in your core, back, and glutes. If you use a bicycle with handles, you’ll also be able to work your upper body muscles, including your biceps, triceps, and shoulders.”

She Runs

Viciconte shared this Instagram video of herself working out. In it, she is seen doing running exercises. Viciconte captioned it, “When we exercise, our body releases endorphin, a natural substance produced by the brain during and after physical activity. The release of endorphin, also known as the 'joy hormone', helps you relax, reduces stress, anxiety and improves your mood. I always say that it's never too late to start moving, so you know that tomorrow you have no excuse 💪🏻”