How to Train Like an Olympian Without Being One

Fewer than 3,000 athletes from more than 90 countries are competing in this year's Winter Olympic Games—but you don't need elite status to improve your health.

Dr. George Eldayrie, a sports medicine physician at Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute, says watching world-class athletes can motivate everyday people to get moving. The key is knowing how to start.

"I think too many people jump into something that's a little too intense for what their capabilities and what their athletic background is, and that's where you run into your risk of injuries," Eldayrie said.

His advice: start slow, dedicate a set time each day to physical activity, and build from there. Consistency matters—Olympians don't train sporadically.

The general recommendation is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, plus two to three days of strength training with resistance. From there, Eldayrie emphasizes the basics: stay hydrated, maintain a healthy sleep schedule, and eat a balanced diet.