Exclusive Q&A: Allyson Felix says everything 'running smoothly' in Rio
Six-time medalist Allyson Felix was able to overcome a nagging ankle injury, suffered while weight training in April, to earn a spot in the Olympics. Prior to competing in the 400 meters on Saturday, she had a conversation with AOL.com about Rio, fitness, her career, faith and more.
Q: How have you gotten involved with Bounty and how much fun has that been?
A: It's been a total blast! I'm excited to be a P&G athlete, as they have been a strong support system for my entire family leading up to these games. It's been so special being part of their Thank You, Mom campaign because my mom is one of the greatest drivers of strength in my life. She has always pushed me to reach my best potential, so being a part of it allows me to say thank you to her for everything she has ever done for me. I've teamed up with P&G's brand Bounty because while I'm quick on the track, I've got to be super speedy at home too!
Q: What were your first impressions of Rio? Where are you staying, and have you been affected by any of the negative press about the conditions?
A: I came in to Rio with a really open mind. Before every Olympics there's always a big story, but when I got here, everything was running smoothly. Rio is such a beautiful place so I've been enjoying just taking it all in.
Q: What's the coolest part about Rio?
A: Being on Copacabana beach. It's so amazing seeing beach volleyball out there, plus seeing so many people and how wonderfully the culture infuses with the Olympics.
Q: Coming from somebody who keeps her fitness and wellness at a high level every day, what advice would you give to the average person who wanted to prioritize those things more?
A: Make a date of it. Instead of meeting a girlfriend for lunch, meet for a class. Go to spin or a class at the gym. Fitness doesn't have to be a grueling workout. Keep an open mind and find what's fun for you. It has to be fun. That's key!
Q: What's the biggest life lesson you've learned from sports?
A: I think you learn some of your biggest lessons from losing. You have to learn how to turn that around, how to be motivated by a loss, and just keep going. That's been the best lesson for me.
Q: How does strong faith continue to fuel your life?
A: To me it's everything. I feel like I have this great gift, it's a gift from God. To me it's like, I have a bigger purpose to running and I always remember that.
Q: We saw the Bounty commercial and it's great. How much fun was that?
A: I've teamed up with Bounty because while I'm quick on the track, I've got to be super speedy at home too. As you can imagine, I do everything pretty quickly so I'm always a fan of things that can help me do things better and, of course, quicker.
