Five Things We Can Learn From Olympians

Harry Sneider trains Olympic high jumper Dwight Stones in Pasadena. – Courtesy photo

By Sarah Sneider

What do Michael Phelps, the fantastic “Final Five” gymnasts, Katie Ledecky, Usain Bolt, Kerri Walsh-Jennings, Allyson Felix, and other great Olympians have in common?

NBC had around-the-clock coverage of the Rio Olympics and there was so much to see with our modern technology. With all the many different venues and events, one could not see as much being there in person, even though nothing compares with actually being there.

What can we learn from watching these amazing athletes? How can it make a difference in our life? Late Coach Harry Sneider trained 20 athletes in nine different sports for the 1984 Olympics and was nominated Olympic Track and Field Coach. Training and coaching these Olympians in Pasadena at Ambassador College, it was evident they all have five similar character traits. What do they all have in common?

1. They have a dream. Some of the athletes from Rio expressed in interviews that they had dreamed of being in the Olympics and winning gold even at a very young age.
2. They have desire, focus, and preparation.
3. They have perseverance. They are willing to overcome and fight through any setbacks.
4. They have discipline. They train consistently, eat healthy, and follow rigid schedules.
5. They have drive and determination. They don’t quit! “Winners never quit and quitters never win.”

Many Olympians mentioned that the support of their coaches, their family, and friends made all the difference. Ambassador College in Pasadena closed in 1990 and many of the buildings of the former Ambassador College campus have been torn down and replaced with condos. In spite of the many changes to the former campus, ironically the gymnasium, Olympic-size swimming pool, racquetball courts, fitness center buildings, and track (now a football field) where the Olympians once trained still remain and are currently used by Maranatha High School.

The original dining center where the Olympians enjoyed wonderful meals and the beautiful Ambassador Auditorium also still remain.

Whether we want to lose weight, have more energy, get stronger, stay healthy, or more, we can succeed by learning from these amazing Olympians. As Katie Kedecky, the great Olympic swimmer said in an interview from Rio, “Dream big, work hard, and big things can happen!” Go for it! You can do it!

Sarah Sneider, winner of nine gold medals in the recent California Senior Games, continues Harry Sneider’s legacy along with her son Rob, a two-time All-American volleyball player who played professionally in Switzerland. They are professional fitness trainers and can help you get in the best shape of your life. Call (626) 355-8964 or email harrysneider@earthlink.net to set up an appointment. You’ll be glad you did!

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