Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: The Daily Routine of a Champion

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, at just 25, has cemented her place in track and field history as a four-time Olympic gold medalist and a six-time world record holder in the 400-meter hurdles. Her recent success at the Paris 2024 Olympics further solidifies her status as a dominant figure in the sport. However, McLaughlin-Levrone’s achievements are not solely the result of her natural talent; they are also deeply rooted in her disciplined daily routine, which she meticulously follows to maintain her elite performance level.

Morning Rituals

McLaughlin-Levrone starts her day around 7:30 a.m., often waking just before her alarm. “My body always knows,” she notes, indicating a keen awareness of her own rhythms. The first thing she does is drink a glass of cold lemon water. This practice, recommended by her nutritionist, helps reset her system and detox her body, providing a refreshing start to her day. “It helps me feel energized before I begin my training,” she explains.

Mental preparation is equally crucial for her. After hydrating, she spends 10 to 15 minutes reading the Bible. This spiritual grounding serves as a way to center herself before the demands of her day take over. “It’s a way for me to focus and set my intentions,” she shares, illustrating how a strong mental state complements her physical training.

#### Skincare Essentials

McLaughlin-Levrone believes in the importance of skincare, keeping her routine simple yet effective. “I’m a pimple patch person,” she laughs, often starting her day by peeling off overnight patches. Her collaboration with Neutrogena has educated her about proper skincare, with the Hydro Boost Cleanser being her go-to product. “It’s super moisturizing, which is essential for my combination skin,” she adds.

Reflecting on her early interest in beauty, she recalls experimenting with products borrowed from her sister. This evolution in her skincare knowledge showcases her growth not just as an athlete but as an individual who values self-care.

Following her skincare routine, she focuses on breakfast. Her typical meal includes two scrambled eggs with avocado and a banana, sometimes adding bacon or oatmeal. “Oatmeal is great for long-lasting energy during my workouts,” she notes, emphasizing the necessity of sustained fuel. Her favorite superfood? Blueberries, which she finds beneficial for cognitive focus, an essential aspect of hurdling.

#### Training Regimen

After breakfast, McLaughlin-Levrone heads to track practice, where her commitment to discipline shines through. She never leaves home without her essentials: sunscreen and makeup wipes. Given the outdoor nature of her training, sports sunscreen is vital. “I’ve learned a lot about skincare and sun protection over the years,” she acknowledges. The makeup remover wipes are practical for cleaning up after sweaty sessions. “I’m always sweating and getting dirty, so I try to freshen up whenever I can,” she laughs.

Her training regimen is rigorous, consisting of high-intensity workouts, sprint drills, and specific hurdles training. McLaughlin-Levrone focuses not only on her physical strength but also on her technique and mental toughness. The balance of training ensures she remains competitive and continues to break her own records.

Balancing Commitments

Beyond her training, McLaughlin-Levrone’s life is busy with various commitments. She hosts a run club with Girls on the Run International, participates in media appearances, and even showcased her versatility by competing in the 200-meter race in Brussels post-Olympics. “It’s important for me to give back and inspire the next generation of athletes,” she states, highlighting her dedication to the sport and community.

Despite her hectic schedule, she prioritizes rest and recovery, which are critical for an athlete of her caliber. Sleep hygiene, active recovery sessions, and mental health practices are integral parts of her routine, allowing her to maintain peak performance while managing the pressures of being in the spotlight.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s daily routine is a testament to the discipline, consistency, and commitment required to achieve greatness in athletics. By focusing on physical training, mental grounding, and self-care, she has established a foundation that not only supports her current success but also paves the way for her future endeavors. As she continues to break barriers on the track, her structured approach serves as an inspiring model for aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that a holistic routine is key to sustained excellence.