At the 2026 Winter Olympics, precision, power, and preparation define every second on the ice.
For Olympic gold medalist Erin Jackson, success isn’t just about explosive starts and clean laps, it’s also about intentional self-care.
Inside her training day bag is a carefully curated lineup of essentials that support both peak performance and personal well-being.
Jackson, who made history as the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in speed skating, understands that excellence is built long before competition day. Training sessions are intense, demanding both physical endurance and mental clarity. To stay grounded, she prioritizes routines that help her reset between practices.
Hydration tops her list. A large insulated water bottle and electrolyte packets are non-negotiables, helping her replenish after grueling workouts. Recovery tools, like resistance bands for activation drills and a compact massage roller, keep her muscles primed and reduce soreness. For Jackson, recovery isn’t optional; it’s strategic.
But beyond performance gear, her bag also reflects her commitment to self-care. A nourishing lip balm, rich hand cream, and a travel-size moisturizer combat the drying effects of cold arenas and winter air. Skincare may seem small compared to Olympic stakes, but maintaining comfort in her skin allows her to stay focused without distraction.
Mental preparation carries equal weight. Noise-canceling headphones and a carefully curated playlist help her shift into competition mode. Music becomes both a motivator and a calming ritual, signaling to her body and mind that it’s time to lock in. A small journal often travels with her too, a space to jot down reflections, affirmations, or lessons from the day’s training.
Nutrition also plays a starring role. Balanced snacks, protein bars, mixed nuts, and fruit, keep her energy steady between sessions. Instead of waiting until exhaustion hits, Jackson fuels consistently, reinforcing the idea that discipline extends to daily habits.
Balancing Olympic ambition with self-care requires intention. For Jackson, it’s about recognizing that peak performance thrives on maintenance, not burnout. The items in her bag aren’t luxuries; they’re tools that help her show up fully, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
As she competes on the world stage in 2026, Erin Jackson’s approach offers a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just built in the spotlight. It’s cultivated in the quiet moments, hydrating, stretching, moisturizing, reflecting, long before the starting gun fires.
