Gwen Jorgensen
Triathlete

After being recruited by USA Triathlon only two years ago, Gwen Jorgensen amazed millions when she took the silver at the 2011 ITU World Championship Series, claiming a spot on the U.S. Olympic team. Though an unfortunate flat tire dashed her dreams of an Olympic medal this year, we’re sure it’s not the last we’ll see of this inspiring, dynamic athlete. On foot, on a bike, and in the pool, Gwen’s cramming in two to three training sessions a day, so proper fueling is key to ensuring she has adequate energy reserves to stick with her program. She’s a huge proponent of a whole-foods diet, and her typical menu includes a big bowl of oatmeal plus poached eggs for breakfast; peanut butter and honey sandwiches for lunch; chicken or fish, quinoa with veggies and cheese, and a giant salad for dinner; plus a late-night snack of yogurt topped with a deliciously decadent mix of honey, almond butter, berries, and walnuts. After training sessions, she whips up her postexercise “recovery shake” by blending together almond milk, frozen berries, banana, peanut butter, flax, whey protein, and pineapple for a balanced brew of nutrient-rich carbs, high-quality protein, and healthy fats. Gwen even finds time to make her own homemade rice cakes, protein bars, and Crock-Pot yogurt!