Olympic champion Jonna Sundling expresses surprise at the training motivation techniques employed by Finnish skier Jasmi Joensuu, which include placing her picture in front of her during workouts.
Finnish skier Jasmi Joensuu, 29, utilizes an unconventional training method that involves displaying a picture of Swedish sprinter Jonna Sundling, 31, during her workouts. Joensuu holds Sundling in high regard, referring to her as one of the greatest sprinters of all time, noting her impressive track record which includes three consecutive sprint world championships and Olympic victory. She credits Sundling's image as a source of motivation for her training, highlighting Sundling's exceptional qualities as a sprinter, including endurance, speed, and intelligence.
Sundling, who was unaware of this motivation technique until informed, found it amusing and somewhat surprising. She expressed her initial doubt upon learning that Joensuu actually places her photo in front of her during training sessions. While such motivational practices are not uncommon in sports, particularly in combat sports, they are less typical in winter sports like skiing.
Joensuu's approach may highlight a growing trend among athletes to seek inspiration from peers in different disciplines, reinforcing the importance of mental motivation in competitive sports. As other athletes observe and possibly adopt similar strategies, it could pave the way for new methods of training and mental preparedness in the world of skiing and beyond.
