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Tag: Athletes

  • Erin Jackson on Eczema and Black Women’s Skin Health

    As the colder seasons approach, prioritizing skincare becomes even more crucial, especially for those with melanin-rich skin. For individuals managing eczema, this challenge is amplified. Olympic gold medalist Erin Jackson, who knows this struggle firsthand, is sharing her insights on dealing with eczema and the importance of proper skin care.

    A History-Making Athlete and a Personal Battle

    Erin Jackson made history at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics as the first Black woman to win an individual Winter Olympic gold medal. Beyond her achievements on the ice, the 33-year-old Florida native is now lending her voice to important health conversations. She’s become a brand ambassador for Lilly medicines, specifically highlighting EBGLYSS.

    While Jackson doesn’t personally use EBGLYSS, she’s passionate about sharing her experiences with managing her own eczema. She recently hosted a panel discussion at Chelsea Piers in New York City, where she discussed her partnership and the unique challenges Black women face with eczema. The event also featured Dr. Camille Howard-Verovic, an expert in dermatology, who provided valuable information on managing the condition.

    Understanding EBGLYSS and Seeking Care

    At the event, information about EBGLYSS was shared, describing it as an injectable medicine for moderate-to-severe eczema in individuals 12 years and older who weigh at least 88 pounds and whose condition isn’t controlled by topical treatments. Dr. Howard-Verovic, who also experiences eczema, offered expert advice and a compassionate approach, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional care and staying ahead of skin concerns.

    The discussion highlighted the need for better skincare solutions and awareness, particularly for the Black community. Jackson’s willingness to share her personal journey encourages others to be proactive about their skin health and seek the care they need, especially as the seasons change and skin conditions can be exacerbated.

    Do you struggle with eczema or other skin conditions, especially during winter? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

  • Kysre Gondrezick: From WNBA Star to Playmate

    The WNBA’s own Kysre Gondrezick is making headlines, not just for her skills on the court, but for a groundbreaking achievement off it. The 26-year-old former Indiana Fever guard has been named Playboy’s Miss June 2025, marking a significant moment in her journey from professional athlete to a multifaceted “it girl.”

    A Historic Playmate Title

    Gondrezick is now officially the first current professional basketball player to earn the prestigious Playmate title. In her stunning debut for Playboy, she trades her basketball jersey for a high-glam, minimalist aesthetic, exuding confidence and feminine power. The announcement photo features her topless on an orange pool float, a bold statement of self-assuredness.

    This move isn’t about leaving basketball behind; it’s about embracing expansion. Gondrezick told Playboy, “What people label as a transition, I embody as evolution. I’m not stepping outside who I am. I’m building a multidimensional brand.”

    Building a Multidimensional Brand

    Gondrezick has been quietly cultivating this multidimensional brand since her WNBA debut in 2021. Between runway appearances, brand collaborations, and captivating red carpet looks, she has seamlessly integrated fashion and beauty into her athletic identity. She’s a testament to how women in sports can command attention not only for their athletic prowess but also for their personal style.

    Whether she’s rocking a power suit courtside or serving soft-glam looks for a campaign shoot, Gondrezick consistently impresses. Her latest venture into Playboy’s pages solidifies her as a new face of feminine versatility, and fans are celebrating this milestone as a symbolic cultural shift, recognizing female athletes for their full complexity.

    Balancing Passions

    For Gondrezick, it’s all about finding that perfect balance. She recently signed with the AU Pro Basketball League, demonstrating her continued commitment to her first love – basketball. Simultaneously, she’s embracing and showcasing the beauty and versatility she brings to other professional arenas.

    • WNBA star turned Playboy Miss June 2025.
    • First current pro basketball player to earn the Playmate title.
    • Building a multidimensional brand beyond sports.
    • Known for killer jump shot and killer style.
    • Committed to both basketball and fashion/beauty ventures.

    From the hardwood to high fashion, Kysre Gondrezick’s evolution is proving to be unstoppable. Her journey highlights the expanding roles and influence of female athletes in today’s culture.

    What do you think of Kysre Gondrezick’s historic achievement with Playboy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Misty Copeland Retires from Ballet, Looks to Future

    A true icon is taking her final bow. After an incredible 25-year journey with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), Misty Copeland has announced her retirement as a principal dancer. This marks the end of a truly groundbreaking chapter in the world of classical dance, but it’s far from the end of her influence.

    A Historic Career Defined by Breaking Barriers

    Misty Copeland’s career has been nothing short of revolutionary. She shattered glass ceilings when she became the first Black woman to be named a principal dancer at ABT in 2015, a monumental achievement in the company’s then-75-year history. This promotion wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a beacon of hope and representation for aspiring dancers everywhere.

    Now, a decade after that historic moment, Copeland is ready to embrace a new phase. “It’s time for me to move to the next stage,” she shared with the Associated Press, signaling a thoughtful transition away from the demanding schedule of a principal dancer.

    Beyond the Stage: A Vision for the Future

    Copeland’s retirement isn’t just an exit; it’s a purposeful pivot towards new endeavors. Through her nonprofit, The Misty Copeland Foundation, she remains deeply committed to fostering diversity in dance. The foundation works to provide access, training, and resources to children from underrepresented communities, ensuring the next generation has opportunities she once dreamed of.

    She’s also a celebrated author and speaker, and the creative force behind Life in Motion Productions. Her bestselling memoir, “Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina,” solidified her status not just as a dancer, but as a powerful storyteller and cultural icon. Her influence extends far beyond the ballet world.

    A Farewell Performance and Lasting Legacy

    Copeland’s final performance as a principal dancer is scheduled for October 22 at The David H. Koch Theater. This special tribute will feature her return to the iconic Romeo and Juliet Balcony Pas de Deux, a piece that has resonated deeply with audiences. The event’s honorary chairs, Oprah Winfrey and Caroline Kennedy, underscore the profound impact Copeland has had.

    While her departure leaves a significant void—no Black woman currently holds the title of principal dancer at ABT—her legacy is undeniable. Misty Copeland didn’t just dance; she disrupted the industry, paving the way for countless young Black girls to see themselves reflected on the world’s most prestigious stages. Though her pointe shoes may be retired, her movement and inspiration are far from over.

    What are your favorite Misty Copeland performances or moments? How do you think her legacy will continue to impact the dance world? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • The Secret Endurance Hack Elite Athletes Use

    As autumn marathons loom and training ramps up, endurance athletes face a challenge that goes beyond just physical grit. The real difference between a triumphant finish and hitting that dreaded wall often boils down to one often-overlooked secret: strategic fueling during exercise. While pre-workout meals give you a starting boost, they’re simply not enough for activities lasting longer than 75 minutes. Sports nutritionists agree that mid-workout nutrition is the game-changer.

    The Science of Staying Fueled

    During long bouts of exercise, your body’s carbohydrate stores, known as glycogen, get depleted rapidly. This depletion is what leads to that sudden, crushing fatigue and mental fog athletes call ‘bonking’ or ‘hitting the wall.’ Science consistently shows that consuming carbohydrates during endurance activities helps you last longer, maintain your power, and keep your mind sharp. But here’s the catch: you need to get the hydration right too, or you risk digestive issues that can ruin your race.

    Proven Fueling Options for Peak Performance

    Athletes have a variety of portable fuel options, and the best choice often depends on personal preference and the demands of the activity. Many still rely on natural whole foods that are both familiar and effective.

    • **Bananas:** Offer easily digestible glucose and potassium for energy and electrolyte balance.
    • **Dates:** Provide a quick hit of glucose and fructose for immediate muscle fuel.
    • **Dried Fruits (Raisins, Figs):** Concentrated natural sugars in a portable, lightweight form.
    • **Applesauce Pouches:** Convenient packaging with fiber removed for easier digestion.
    • **Salted Boiled Potatoes:** A surprising favorite among ultramarathoners, combining carbs with essential sodium.

    Convenience Meets Precision: Commercial Products

    For those seeking convenience and precise dosing, purpose-built energy products are popular. Energy bars offer substantial fuel but require chewing, which can be tough during intense efforts. Energy gels are designed for rapid absorption, but finding a flavor you like is key. Gummy energy chews offer a middle ground, like familiar candy, but their texture might be a factor for some during high-intensity moments.

    Personalizing Your Fueling Strategy

    What works for one athlete might not work for another. Your ideal fueling strategy is highly personal. Consider factors like cost, the type of activity, your digestive sensitivity, and, of course, taste preferences. Pay close attention to your body’s signals – feeling lightheaded or experiencing premature fatigue could mean you need more carbohydrates.

    Don’t forget that environmental conditions play a role too! Heat and humidity increase your need for both fuel and fluids, so adjust your intake accordingly. Elite athletes often experiment extensively during training to dial in their perfect plan.

    Timing and Dosage: The Golden Rules

    When should you start fueling? Aim for between 75 and 90 minutes into your exercise session. The general guideline for intake is 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. For ultra-endurance athletes tackling events over four hours, this might increase to as much as 90 grams per hour to maintain peak performance. The ultimate goal is to find sustainable options that meet your body’s demands and align with your preferences.

    Whether you opt for traditional whole foods or cutting-edge sports nutrition products, consistency and understanding your personal tolerance are crucial. As athletes continue to push boundaries, mastering your fueling strategy remains fundamental to achieving your ambitious goals. Proper preparation and understanding your body’s needs are often the simplest, yet most effective, secrets to endurance success.

    What are your go-to endurance fueling strategies? Share your favorite tips and tricks in the comments below!