Balancing Act: How Olympians Juggle Jobs While Chasing Glory

The Reality of the Olympic Dream

Competing at the Olympics symbolizes the pinnacle of athletic achievement, yet for many, this incredible journey is tempered by financial realities. As we approach the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games, the stories of athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin highlight how even elite competitors often juggle demanding jobs while striving for gold.

Behind the Scenes: Work and Training

For athletes like American curler Korey Dropkin, the phrase “full-time athlete” takes on a different meaning. He recently shared with a local news outlet that he balances his Olympic dreams with a career as a realtor. “I have two full-time jobs,” Dropkin remarked, underscoring the rigorous sacrifice athletes make to compete at such elite levels.

“It's tough. It's definitely not easy .... you either find a way to fight for it, or it doesn't happen.”

A Balance Between Dreams and Necessities

From practicing as a dentist to pouring concrete, Olympians are finding ways to support their ambition. Consider Tara Peterson, a skilled skier and dentist, who openly expresses gratitude for her job that allows her to continue competing. This balancing act isn't unique to an individual discipline as athletes from various backgrounds face similar struggles, like Regina Martínez, Mexico's first Olympic cross-country skier, who balances her athletic career with her responsibilities as an emergency room doctor.

Compensation Disparities

While the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee provides financial bonuses for podium finishes—$37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze—the financial support often falls short compared to the immense costs associated with Olympic-level training. Chloe Kim, a snowboarder earning millions, represents the minority, while many continue to battle significant financial obligations.

Financial Security Initiatives

Recognizing these challenges, philanthropist Ross Stevens introduced a groundbreaking initiative pledging $200,000 in financial benefits for U.S. Olympians competing in each Olympic cycle. This promise reflects a growing awareness about the economic hurdles faced by the athletes representing our nation.

The Strains of Athletics

American snowboarder Nick Baumgartner recognized the dual demands of being an athlete and a worker, calling himself the “#BlueCollarOlympian” for his attempts to fund his career through physically taxing work. His experience motivates emerging athletes who might feel overwhelmed by the financial burdens of pursuing Olympic dreams.

Striving for Balance

Juggling responsibilities has driven athletes like Ryan Cochran-Siegle, a silver medalist in Super-G, to maintain multiple roles. Alongside his athletic commitments, he studies engineering while helping out at his family's maple syrup farm, showcasing not just the challenges but also the diversity of paths that Olympians navigate.

A New Perspective on Training

For those like Paige Jones, studying biomedical engineering at the University of North Dakota, education complements their journey in sports. She speaks candidly about how pursuing a degree contributes to her mental wellness as an athlete, allowing her to balance the pressure that comes with high-stakes sports.

Practical Realities of Competition

Olympians like Keely Cashman, who placed 15th in Super Giant Slalom, also emphasize the economic reality of training costs. While some costs are subsidized by their national bodies, many athletes face financial pressures that can intensify during live competitions. Efforts towards financial independence, like advertising merchandise, are creative solutions to fund their ambitions.

Conclusion: The Future of Olympic Athletes

As we celebrate the spirit of competition and excellence at the Winter Olympics, it's essential to recognize the unseen struggles Olympians endure. Through their stories, we gain insight into the duality of their lives, motivating us to advocate for policies that support these remarkable athletes both on and off the field. Their journey is more than about medals—it's a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to their craft.