Allyson Felix: Life After Track & Staying Strong

For years, Allyson Felix was a household name synonymous with peak athletic performance. As the most decorated American track and field athlete in history, she set a standard for excellence. Now, at 40, Felix is embracing a new chapter, one where her focus has shifted from Olympic medals to the equally demanding, yet rewarding, roles of motherhood and entrepreneurship. She’s redefining strength, emphasizing consistency and intentional self-care.

A More Intentional Approach to Wellness

Transitioning from a life dictated by intense training schedules to one balancing family and business requires a different mindset. Felix explains that her approach to health and wellness has become far more intentional. “When I was younger, I didn’t have to think about it too much. It was kind of automatic,” she shares. “Things were more forgiving, but now I see more closely how things are related.”

This intentionality extends to her daily routine, which now prioritizes family. “We love taking family walks at the end of the day. On the weekends, we love taking the bikes out and getting on the bike path,” she says. Even her personal fitness is scheduled as a non-negotiable, fitting into her calendar wherever possible.

Fueling the Body: Nutrition and Protein

Felix’s partnership with Ensure and Abbott highlights her focus on proper nutrition, particularly protein intake. She emphasizes the importance of fueling her body, especially after workouts. “Protein is what is going to do that. It’s important for all people and it’s important for a healthy lifestyle,” she explains.

• Morning: Oatmeal, fruit, yogurt, and granola.
• Post-workout: Ensure Max Protein 42g Shake for convenient, research-backed protein.
• Lunch: Often a salad.
• Dinner: A balanced meal with fish, vegetables, and a starch.

She appreciates Ensure’s ease of use, fitting seamlessly into her busy life as a mom and business owner. “It’s so easy to take on the go. As a busy mom and business owner, it just fits my lifestyle really well,” Felix notes.

Nurturing Mental Health and Finding Balance

Beyond the physical, Felix places significant importance on mental well-being. “I think about it so much more now,” she admits. Her routine includes journaling, breathwork, and quiet moments before the day’s demands begin. “Checking in with myself, knowing am I feeling overwhelmed? Do I need some time for myself?” she asks.

For women struggling to get back on track with their wellness goals, Felix advises: “First, give yourself grace.” She encourages gradual progress, setting attainable goals, and starting small. “Even if it feels small, it’s something and it gives you something to build off of,” she says.

Strength Redefined: Beyond the Track

Felix’s definition of feeling her “best” has evolved. It’s less about peak athletic performance and more about feeling strong, healthy, and making good choices. “It’s not always the ideal situation or it’s not always perfect, but to me, it’s like setting myself up for success,” she states.

Her training regimen now embraces variety, including track workouts, tennis, Pilates, and gym strength training. “Consistency is key,” she reiterates, “and so I’m making sure that I’m doing one of those things and making sure I’m moving my body every day.”