MOTIVATIONAL MONDAYS // JESSICA ZELINKA

Jessica Zelinka

Canadian Heptathlete, 100m Hurdler 2X Olympian, Mother, Married to a Canadian Olympic Water Polo Player

Website: www.jessicazelinka.com  

If you were stranded on an island and could only bring 3 things, what would they be: Bottle of gin, tonic, and a lamp with a magic genie

What's your favorite JOLYN style and why: The Ghost Top is perfect for me because it is just as comfortable as a sports bra, but the back straps are perfectly situated so I can get rid of my horrible sports bra tan lines!

What's the most inspiring race you've ever seen: Australian Cathy Freeman's 400m race at the 2000 Sydney Olympics was really impressive. She had a tremendous amount of pressure on her with the Olympics being hosted in her home country and being selected to light the Olympic flame to open the Games. She also was the first aboriginal to represent Australia which provided additional pressure to make history by winning a medal. It was her composure and quiet confidence that stood out for me. Although she was petite compared to some of her competitors, she made up for it with a powerful fluent stride. She also wore a full lycra body-suit with a hood to run her final race in which made her look untouchable.

How do you like to cross train? or What is your favorite cross training activity: A lot of athletes use track as their cross training sport, but track athletes don't really have a go-to cross training activity. Early in the season, I get into the pool once a week to do my running in the water (but I wouldn't say it's my favorite activity!). Our workouts usually consist of a 30-60 sec runs in the deep-end (while trying to stay afloat), followed by jumping out of the pool and doing 10 sit ups + 10 push ups, then back in the pool for another 30-60 secs, repeat this circuit 8-9 times (continuous).

What is your signature dish in the kitchen: Breakfast oatmeal with pumpkin puree

What is the hardest thing you've ever experienced: Child labor

What is your favorite workout or gym exercise: My favorite gym exercise is a clean from the floor. It's a full-body movement that requires explosiveness and power. I need to be fully engaged and focused on technique when performing this exercise, especially when I'm lifting heavy. I find training in the weight room to be a bit tedious at times, so I general enjoy exercises that require high efforts and full concentration.

What is your most embarrassing moment you're willing to admit: The first time I was away from my daughter was 9 months after she was born. On top of being chronically tired, I was jet-legged from my travels overseas and couldn't wait to hit the bed before the start of my training camp the next day. I was able to sleep uninterrupted, in a dark hotel room, in a bed to myself... I was in heaven! In the morning though, instead of needing to get up and change diapers, I unfortunately woke up 14 hours later in a soaking wet bed of my own :(