The athletes gearing up for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games are preparing to give their all on the snow and ice. However, before the competition begins, they are taking the time to share insights about their sports while cruising in style. Enter the Men's Health Muscle Car.
Sean FitzSimons, a talented snowboarder, recently took a ride with fitness director Ebenezer Samuel to discuss his Olympic training regimen and preparations for the slopestyle event.
At just 25 years old, FitzSimons has been passionate about snow sports since childhood, having been introduced to skiing before he turned two. Over time, he transitioned to snowboarding and has also embraced other board sports, including skateboarding.
FitzSimons represented his country at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, competing in slopestyle and big air events, where he finished 12th and 17th, respectively. With an eye on further achievements, he is set to compete again in both events at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
During the interview, FitzSimons provided an overview of slopestyle: "It features a large course with jumps and rails, typically starting with rails at the top." He emphasized that maintaining a smooth ride from start to finish is the biggest challenge.
Watch or read the transcript to discover how FitzSimons trains for slopestyle, his competition rituals, and the energizing playlist he uses to get pumped.
MEN'S HEALTH: What's the toughest physical challenge you face?
SEAN FITZSIMONS: The hardest part is when we have several practice days leading up to a contest. Riding for five consecutive days takes a toll on your body, especially with the jumps, so having a day off feels great.
MH: Which muscles do you focus on for slopestyle?
SF: Mainly my legs and psoas. I tend to get tight in my hips, so I work on keeping them flexible.
MH: Is there a must-do exercise for your psoas?
SF: Bird dogs have been really effective for stabilizing my spine. I make sure to warm up properly, especially as I get older; it's crucial for my core activation.
MH: Is there an exercise you dislike?
SF: I'm not a fan of doing a lot of squat jumps.
MH: How do you stay warm in cold conditions?
SF: I usually start with an extra layer, which I can remove later. Warming up is essential to get the blood flowing so the cold doesn't shock my body.
MH: Do you have a go-to hype song?
SF: I love listening to Metallica before big air events; it really gets me fired up.
MH: Do you train your upper body?
SF: Yes, primarily in the off-season, focusing on shoulders. It's not about strength, but rather about ensuring everything is connected, especially since falls can lead to shoulder impacts.
MH: What's your worst fall?
SF: I broke my pelvis once, which was a significant injury and a long recovery process.
MH: Strength or cardio?
SF: Strength.
MH: Fiber or protein?
SF: Protein.
MH: How's your protein intake been in the Olympic Village?
SF: It's been great. They serve up steaks and chicken, which is fantastic.
MH: Do you have any superstitions before competitions?
SF: I wear the same shirt underneath my gear. I didn't think much of it until I performed well in a contest while wearing it, and now it's become a superstition.
MH: Dream sponsorship?
SF: Home Depot.
MH: Is it acceptable to eat in the car?
SF: Absolutely, but it depends on who you're with.
MH: Gloves or mitts?
SF: Gloves allow for more movement.
MH: Who is your Olympic idol?
SF: Scotty Lago. He was the first Olympic snowboarder I watched, and I've admired him ever since.
MH: If you could compete against any athlete, who would it be?
SF: That's a tough one, but I'd choose Marshawn Lynch. Let's go Seahawks!