Chloe Kim, the dominant force in snowboarding, isn’t just preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina – she’s redefining her relationship with the sport, and with herself. After a post-Beijing Games burnout that nearly drove her to retirement, Kim has rebuilt her life around mental and emotional well-being, recognizing that sustained success requires more than just physical prowess.
From Burnout to Balance
The 2022 Olympics left Kim depleted, feeling like snowboarding had become a toxic cycle of highs and lows. She likened the pressure to a volatile relationship: exhilarating when it worked, crushing when it didn’t. Instead of walking away, Kim made a deliberate choice to re-engage on her terms, prioritizing long-term fulfillment over short-term glory. This meant facing uncomfortable truths about her own well-being and committing to a healthier approach.
The solution wasn’t a dramatic overhaul, but a gradual shift towards self-compassion and boundary-setting. Kim sought therapy, addressing deep-seated trauma from years of intense competition and online harassment. She learned to separate her identity from her achievements, embracing a “wise adult self” mindset that prioritized her mental health above all else.
The Zen Room as Sanctuary
This internal work manifests in tangible ways. Kim transformed a spare room in her Los Angeles home into a “zen room” – a plant-filled oasis where she retreats to decompress. This space isn’t merely aesthetic; it symbolizes her commitment to self-care, a physical reminder that rest and rejuvenation are as crucial as training.
This isn’t about avoiding pressure; it’s about managing it. Kim acknowledges the unique intensity of her career – from the early pressure of prodigy expectations to the constant scrutiny of being an Olympic champion. The zen room and her therapy sessions aren’t escapes, but rather tools for navigating that pressure with resilience and self-awareness.
Reframing Competition for 2026
Kim’s preparation for the 2026 Games isn’t solely about perfecting new tricks. She’s focused on enjoying the process, regardless of the outcome. This shift in mindset reflects a broader trend in elite sports, where athletes are increasingly vocal about prioritizing mental health alongside physical performance.
Her training regimen remains rigorous – full-body strength sessions, cardio, pilates, and a protein-rich diet. But the difference now is that these activities are driven by self-care, not obligation. Kim has learned to listen to her body, respect her limits, and prioritize rest when needed.
Beyond the Podium
Kim’s impact extends beyond the half-pipe. As a co-founder of TOGETHXR, a media and commerce company highlighting women’s sports, she’s actively working to amplify female voices and create a more inclusive athletic landscape. This dedication to representation adds another layer to her legacy, ensuring that her success inspires not just aspiring athletes, but also marginalized communities.
Chloe Kim’s journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness and boundary-setting. She’s not just preparing for another Olympic Games; she’s forging a path where mental health is valued as highly as athletic achievement. Her story underscores that true success isn’t defined by medals, but by the ability to thrive – both on and off the snow.
