Milan, Italy – As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw to a close, speed skater Erin Jackson is demonstrating that preparation extends far beyond the ice rink. For Jackson, a gold medalist and increasingly influential voice in the world of sports, intentionality and finding joy are just as crucial as physical training. This philosophy is reflected in her recent partnership with Hershey’s, a campaign celebrating the connection between athletes and their families and underscores her belief that “happiness is the real gold.”
Jackson, who recently detailed the keys to her success at the Games, approaches her sport with a unique perspective. She doesn’t necessarily identify as an “athlete,” but rather as a “skater,” a distinction that speaks to her deep-rooted passion. Her journey began not on ice, but on inline skates, a hobby she picked up at age 10, long before Olympic dreams took hold. It wasn’t until age 24 that she transitioned to ice skating, inspired by observing teammates like Brittany Bowe and Joey Mantia at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, planting the seed for a fresh chapter in her athletic career.
Jackson’s training regimen is demanding, beginning with early morning warm-ups and treatment sessions before hitting the ice around 9 AM. Cooldowns and recovery are always prioritized. Afternoons are dedicated to strength training, cycling, or dry-land exercises designed to mimic skating movements, with a particular focus on strengthening legs and glutes to maximize power, balance, and endurance. But maintaining peak performance requires a holistic approach, extending to her wellness routine.
Recognizing the importance of self-care, Jackson keeps her beauty and wellness routine refreshingly simple. “A lot of lotion” is a staple in her training bag, she says, a necessity for combating the cold, dry environments she frequently encounters. She relies on Olay moisturizer and sunscreen, alongside a constant supply of lip balm – “Anyone I can find,” she jokes, noting her Florida roots make her particularly susceptible to dry climates. A Hershey’s Chocolate bar and a protein drink also make regular appearances in her bag, providing a boost of energy, and sustenance. Interestingly, Jackson also utilizes Vaseline to ease her feet into her custom-fit, notoriously unforgiving skating boots.
Competition days don’t drastically alter her routine, but Jackson pays extra attention to her ankles, which are prone to dryness and irritation from the friction within her boots. This constant awareness serves as a reminder that her body is an instrument requiring consistent care. Jackson’s proudest moment to date remains her Olympic gold medal win in 2022, a moment she describes as “a fairytale ending” filled with emotion as she looked out at her teammates on the podium. However, she understands that sustained success requires continuous effort and a grounded perspective.
Recovery is paramount for Jackson, and she emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of sleep. “People overlook sleep,” she states, “But your sleep habits and personal hygiene are real. There’s a reason.” Her recovery routine also incorporates foam rolling, mobility work, and collaboration with medical staff to proactively manage injuries and ensure longevity in her sport.
As Erin Jackson continues to pursue excellence, she embodies a balance between rigorous training and mindful self-care. Her approach serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that true success isn’t solely defined by medals, but by the joy and well-being found along the way. The athlete’s commitment to holistic wellness, combined with her dedication to her sport, positions her as a role model for aspiring athletes and beyond.
Looking ahead, Jackson’s focus remains on continued growth and pushing the boundaries of her performance. Her dedication to both athletic achievement and personal well-being sets a powerful example, and her journey will undoubtedly continue to inspire.
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