Track and Field Star Lolo Jones Shares Swimsuit Photos Looking Fit

At 41, Lolo Jones thought competing would be behind her, but the pro athlete is giving it one more shot. The three-time Olympian is back in training hoping to earn a spot in the upcoming Summer Olympics, in Paris.“I thought I’d be retired by now, but my coach is like, ‘let’s give it. [this] last push,' she recently told Oklahoma local station KFOR at a Salvation Army charity event. "All I know is my body’s still able to run,” she said. “I’m still able to physically do this and mentally love it. Not burned out. So why not?” Jones, a champion hurdler and bobsledder who is among the few athletes to compete in both the Winter and Summer Olympics, still enjoys training and told CITIUS MAG she's on the "Tom Brady retirement plan." Jones might be older than other athletes she's up against but is unfazed. "41. They said you are washed up," she wrote on Instagram. "They said the best years are behind you. This is the most confident I’ve ever been in any season of my life. Thank you for all the bday wishes and supporting me all these years on my journey." Read on to see how she stays fit and the swimsuit photos to prove they work.

1. She Does a Variety of Intense Exercises

To target every muscle in her body, Jones mixes up her workouts and gave fans a look in various videos at how she stays in shape, showing off several moves that are listed below.

What the Expert Says: "Lolo Jones' workouts incorporate a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups, providing a well-rounded full-body workout," ACE-certified trainer and nutritionist Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD says. Here's a breakdown of the muscles she's likely working.

• V-Ups (Abs): This exercise primarily targets the rectus abdominis (the "six-pack" muscles) and engages the hip flexors.
• Push-Ups: Push-ups are great for the chest (pectoral muscles), shoulders (deltoids), and triceps.
• Air Squats: Air squats work the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, helping to strengthen the lower body.
• Jumping Lunges: Jumping lunges challenge the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes while also incorporating cardiovascular benefits.
• Burpees: Burpees are a full-body exercise that combines strength and cardio. They work the chest, shoulders, triceps, core, and legs.
• Hollow Rocks: Hollow rocks target the entire core, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and lower back muscles.
• Jump Lunges: Similar to regular lunges, jump lunges engage the lower body muscles while adding a plyometric element for extra intensity.
• Sit-Ups: Sit-ups primarily work the rectus abdominis and hip flexors."

2. She Doesn't Make Excuses

Jones has experienced heartbreaking defeat in her career, but she doesn't let it define her. She uses failure as motivation and pushes herself to move forward and train, even when she doesn't want to. She works out six days a week and will squeeze in a session anywhere including the beach. Here's just one of her many workouts.

Five Rounds

• ⁣5 V-ups
• 10 push-ups
• 15 air squats

⁣Four Rounds

• ⁣8 handstand push-ups, ⁣
• 20 jumping lunges ⁣

Three Rounds

• ⁣15 box jumps⁣
• 15 hollow rocks ⁣

Two Rounds

• 20 Jumping squats⁣
• 30 sit-ups⁣

⁣One Round

• 50 burpees ⁣

What the Expert Says: "Lolo Jones' beach workout appears to be a well-rounded routine targeting various muscle groups," Sabat says. But for anyone who doesn't work out professionally, she suggests approaching [these moves] with caution, especially if they're new to certain exercises. It's important to prioritize proper form, consider individual fitness levels, and make adjustments as needed to prevent injury and ensure a safe and effective workout."

3. Her Workouts are Effective

All workouts are not created equal. Not all exercise will give you the results you're looking for, but Jones has learned what works for her and has go-to workouts like circuit training that you don't need a gym for.

What the Expert Says: According to Sabat, "Lolo's workout seems effective as it includes a mix of exercises that target various muscle groups and incorporate both bodyweight strength training and cardio. It provides a good balance between upper body, lower body, and core exercises, promoting overall strength and fitness."

4. She Does Handstand Push-Ups

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Jones has impressive upper-body strength and does handstand push-ups, which take time to develop due to the balancing and coordination needed to properly perform the move. Of course, Jones makes it look easy, but it's definitely not for everyone.

What the Expert Says: "The handstand push-up is an advanced exercise that heavily engages the shoulders, particularly the deltoids," Sabat says. "They also work the triceps and upper chest." However, Sabat warns, "Handstand push-ups require proper form and adequate strength. Beginners or those unfamiliar with these movements might be at risk of injury if they attempt them without proper guidance."

5. She Does High Reps

High reps are good for building muscle, endurance, and strength. To achieve the level of fitness Jones needs to be at to compete, she does each move several times, according to her Instagram video that lists the following:

• Three sets of 20 lunges
• Three sets of 15 air squats
• Three sets of 10 leg raises
• Three sets of 10 diamond push-ups
• Three sets of 15 calf raises
• Three sets of 15 push-ups
• Three sets of 20 sit-ups

What the Expert Says: While this workout is great for Jones, others should proceed with caution, Sabat warns. "The workout includes high repetition counts, which can be demanding on the muscles and joints. Individuals should ensure they have appropriate conditioning before attempting this workout."

6. She Bakes High Protein, Low Carb Muffins

In addition to working out, Jones is careful about what she eats, although he does indulge in pizza and candy, but includes high-protein snacks like bars or blueberry muffins in her diet.

• 1/2 cup Kodiak cakes baking mix⁣
• 2 scoops Level-1 Blueberry Muffin protein (linked in bio)⁣
• 1/2 cup blueberries⁣
• 2 extra ripe bananas (mashed)⁣
• 1 egg, 2 egg whites⁣
• 1/2 cup stevia⁣
• 1 tsp baking powder⁣
• 2 tbsp light sour cream⁣
• 3/4 tsp of cinnamon⁣
• ⁣Crumble on top:⁣
• 1 scoop Level-1 Vanilla Ice Cream ⁣
• 1/4 cup flour⁣
• 2 Tbsp soft Butter⁣

⁣What the Expert Says: "The muffin recipe seems to offer a balance between protein, carbohydrates, and healthy ingredients," Sabat says. " The inclusion of protein powder and eggs makes these muffins a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake; however a clean protein powder should be substituted." Sabat breaks down the ingredients and further explains why this is a healthy snack.

• "Kodiak Cakes Baking Mix: This mix is known for being a whole grain, high-protein pancake and waffle mix. It adds texture and a source of whole grains to the muffins. It is not however gluten free or dairy free so there are better ways to make these muffins. It is a processed food with an extensive ingredient list.
• Level-1 Blueberry Muffin Protein: This protein powder adds flavor and protein content to the muffins, contributing to muscle recovery and satiety. The protein powder however has a lot of harmful ingredients such as sucrose, acesulfame potassium as well as dyes and other harmful chemicals. She could do much better by using a clean protein powder.
• Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and add natural sweetness and flavor to the muffins.
• Bananas: Mashed bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, and are a source of vitamins and minerals.
• Egg and Egg Whites: Eggs are a good source of protein and healthy fats. Using both whole eggs and egg whites balances the protein and fat content.
• Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener with a low glycemic index, which can help reduce added sugars in the recipe.
• Baking Powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
• Light Sour Cream: Light sour cream adds moisture and a creamy texture to the muffins.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and flavor to the muffins, and it also has potential health benefits.

She adds, "Overall, Lola Jones' muffin recipe appears to have better macros compared to traditional muffins, given its protein content and use of natural sweeteners. However, the use of the protein powder with so many artificial sweeteners and other dangerous ingredients along with the processed Kodiak cake baking mix takes away from these muffins being a healthy option. Nutrition is not just about the macros but also about the quality of the food being prepared."

Track and Field Star Clara Fernández, master of the pole vault, shared some amazing swimsuit images over the past few days. “Mi isla favorita con @calallongahotel tenéis un código de descuento con mi código CLARACLL23 🫶🏻,” she captioned one video montage. She also shared a gorgeous photo of herself on a scenic rock from Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain. The athlete, who is also a skilled triathlon participant who cycles swims, and runs long distances, knows exactly how to stay fit. Here's what she does to maintain her figure and how she shows it off.

1. She Pole Vaults

“Even if you’re unlikely to start flinging your body to amazing heights anytime soon, there’s plenty to learn from watching Olympic pole-vaulters,” says Adventist Health, which interviewed Dr. Gail Jones, a cardiologist at Northwest Regional Heart & Vascular and former pole vaulter. “Dr. Jones suggests watching the incredible core and upper body strength of vaulters, as well as their unique running style and power,” says the website. “This is very different from distance runners or sprinters, but no less athletic,” she told Adventist Health.

2. She Had Paddled

“Kayaking’s fluid paddling motion also provides a low-impact form of aerobic exercise improving strength and flexibility without the wear-and-tear on your joints like many other exercises. While you’ll quickly notice the workout on your upper body, proper paddling technique will tone and strengthen your back and chest as well. Like any aerobic exercise, kayaking can improve lung strength, while lowering blood pressure and a regulating of cholesterol, and Men’s Journal has even heralded kayaking one of the best workouts for a healthy heart,” says Visit NH.

3. She Stretches

“Research has shown that stretching can help improve flexibility, and, as a result, the range of motion of your joints,” says the Mayo Clinic. “Better flexibility may:

• Improve your performance in physical activities
• Decrease your risk of injuries
• Help your joints move through their full range of motion
• Increase muscle blood flow
• Enable your muscles to work most effectively
• Improve your ability to do daily activities

You may learn to enjoy the ritual of stretching before or after hitting the trail, ballet floor or soccer field.”

4. She Gets Vitamin D

“Vitamin D plays a big role in bone health and low Vitamin D levels have been linked to rickets in children and bone diseases like osteoporosis. So how much sun do you need to get enough Vitamin D? It only takes 5-15 minutes of sunlight exposure on your arms, hands and face to get your daily value,” says SCL Health. “The darker your complexion, the more time in the sun. Forget choking down a chalky vitamin every morning, just get outside for a bit and let the sun do its thing.”

5. She Swims

“The enjoyment in activity is extremely important in terms of continuing to engage in those activities,” says Hirofumi Tanaka, a professor in the University of Texas’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, told US Masters Swimming. “Tanaka points to a study of minimally to moderately obese young women done by Grant Gwinup and published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine in 1987. Participants reported that they enjoyed swimming much more than running and cycling,” says US Masters Swimming. “Swimming is also the third-most popular exercise, according to the most recent data available from the U.S. Census Bureau, meaning you’ll have someone to work out with.”

Olympic gold medal winner Katie Ledecky is doing what makes her happiest—spending time in the water. The champion swimmer, 26, shared a picture of herself posing in the pool, her aquamarine swimsuit the exact same color as the crystal clear pool water, and wearing a silver Olympics necklace to perfect her look. “I’ve always loved a good summer swim 💛☺️🏊🏻‍♀️,” she captioned the post. How does the athlete stay so strong and fit? Here are 5 ways Ledecky maintains her impressive physique, in season and out.

1. Swimming and Sundays Off

Ledecky trains incredibly hard, with Sunday being her only full day off. “On a hard day, I'll have two swim practices and a weight session,” she says. “I swim twice a day, four times a week and once a day, twice a week and then I have Sundays off. I swim nine to ten times a week and then three weight sessions per week. The only day that I don't train is Sundays so even right now when I'm taking a little bit of time off, I'm trying to stick to a pretty regular routine. So oatmeal for breakfast, some sort of egg sandwich for lunch, or eggs with toast and then dinner is what varies the most but it is either carbs or some sort of protein: chicken, steak, salmon, something along those lines.”

2. Training Diet

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Ledecky starts the day early, and enjoys food that fuel her workouts. “On a really busy day I would wake up around 5:30 a.m. and have some light breakfast, like oatmeal with a banana, and head to practice and do my swim practice,” she says. “Then have chocolate milk and maybe a banana or a granola bar. I then do my weights session and then have some sort of lunch, usually some eggs, maybe an egg sandwich. I usually have a pre-afternoon practice snack, some Greek yogurt with granola is a typical snack for me with some berries. Then I have afternoon practice from maybe 3-5 p.m., and then I'll come back home and make dinner, and maybe an evening snack, a little bit later as well.

3. Strength Training

Ledecky does deadlifts, squats, pull ups, and chin ups at the gym. "It's pretty full-body because that's what swimming is," she says. "I think core strength is incredibly important in swimming — it's that connecting piece between your arms and legs. So we work on strength and we work on power because you have to have that power coming out of the starting blocks and on all of the turns, as well as a good jump."

4. She’s a Napper

Ledecky says regular naps are an important part of her day. “Many people don’t realize this about me because I’m a professional athlete, but I love naps,” she says. “I’d say that athletes are probably the biggest nappers of all time. If I have the time during the day, I’ll definitely squeeze in a nap to recharge for the next workout. When I wake up, it’s usually lunchtime, and I’ll opt for something light and simple: a salad, sandwich or wrap with chicken and avocado. I definitely need protein throughout my day.”

5. Self-Care Before Competition

Ledecky and her teammates always shave before a competition. “Before racing and before a big meet, it's really important to make sure you're doing all the little things right and getting as much rest as you can,” she says. “A big thing for [my team] is the night before a competition starts, we all shave and so that's when I use my Bic Solei razor. We have a shaving party and we played cards, and after we did that of course we all get to bed super early. It's a lot of fun being with Team USA and we just keep things light.”

Bulgarian sprinter Ivet Lalova-Collio took some time off from her intense training regimen to don a swimsuit and spend quality time with friends at the Gloria Verde Resort in Turkey. Lalova-Collio, 39, shared a beautiful picture of herself posing in a white and tan bikini on a dock, against a background of blue sea and skies. “GIRLS 🫶🏼”, her friend Maryna Bekh-Romanchuk—a champion long jumper—captioned the post. The Olympian athlete has an incredibly impressive strong physique, and she works hard to maintain her tone and muscle. But how exactly does she do it? Here are 5 ways Lalova-Collio stays one of the fastest women in the world.

1. Weights and Running

Lalova-Collio’s training routine is what you would expect from an Olympian—she runs and lifts heavy weights. “In the winter I do a lot of weights, at least 3 times and tempo runs after,” she says. “In the summer I do fewer weights, but lots of high intensity running. I have weeks that I don’t have a day without putting on my spikes. I think about big championships from the moment I step on the track. Knowing that you have to be at your best there is taking me slowly to the moment and the day of the race. At the day I love some music during the warm-up, I do some strides, some active stretching, getting faster and faster in about 1 hour before the competition.”

2. No Outrunning a Bad Diet

Lalova-Collio recognizes how important diet is—especially for an athlete—when it comes to staying fit and healthy. “If I organize myself around training and what I have to eat and around sport, it's easier so the days goes almost like normal,” she says. “It's all about training, resting and recovery. I spend more time cooking - I really want to eat good and I keep telling people 'don't worry so much about exercise,' be careful because if you stay home all day, you end up eating so be careful about that so I pay more attention to diet.”

3. Strict About Exercise

Lalova-Collio didn’t let pandemic lockdowns get in the way of her training regimen—instead, she became creative about working out outside of the traditional gym environment. “We have a state of emergency - we are not under a lockdown - but we have a lot of restrictions,” she says. “We can't go to parks, tracks are closed, gyms are closed but it's your choice if you want to go out but we all prefer to stay home as much as possible. It's tough times for people who train like us! We run in the streets but I keep saying that athletics is a 'poor' sport - we don't need that much to do what we do. We run, we jump, we do the basic things the human body can do although we try and improve them into something superhuman. Even if we have to run on the street or have to run on the stairs in our building, we are going to make it!”

4. Triumph After Tragedy

Lalova-Collio says a serious accident that almost derailed her career in 2005 was actually the making of her. “I love to say that what saved me when the accident happened was that I was really young,” she says. “I was 21 years old. By that time and in my head, there was no possibility that I’m not coming back and I’m not running again. So I had no idea what I’m facing and how long it’s going to take and how hard it’s going to be and I never thought about it. Of course, I had my dark moment and as I said, I cried a lot. It was really tough for me watching the World Championships in Helsinki later, that the same season that I wanted so bad to be there and compete. But I worked, even on that and it saved me, but mostly my motivation to come back saved me.”

5. Power of Positivity

Lalova-Collio says if she could go back in time and give advice to her younger self, it would be to surround herself with positive people who encourage her, and get rid of negative people who would hold her back. “You will later work with a mental coach and discover many empowering things inside of you,” she says. “You will read books on the subject and by training your brain you’ll reach that state of feeling just how you want to feel - which is so important in both training and competition. I’d also say make sure you surround yourself with supportive and positive people.”