TOA: Hello, Crystal! I have been watching all of your travels throughout Colorado on Instagram, and it looks like you’re having such a blast these days. You also share pictures of your “grocery finds” and meals from special restaurants.
I’m completing a 5k this fall. I know you have Collegiate Nationals next week (good luck!!), so I was wondering how you fuel yourself in the days leading up to your big competition.
Crystal: Hi Lauren! I’ve really enjoyed exploring more of Colorado before my year abroad!
Congratulations on your decision to complete a 5k! In the days leading up to an event, I usually stick to my usual diet. The changes usually happen on the day I travel to the competition and actually compete. Staying in a hotel room without a kitchen makes it hard to follow my usual diet so I have to adapt.
TOA: How do you do that? Do you bring your own food, or do you have to eat out?
Crystal: It’s usually a mix of both. I always ask for a fridge in my hotel room and stock up on staples like fruit, carrots, and Greek yogurt. I do usually have to eat out for at least one meal though.
TOA: What do you typically eat for breakfast and/or lunch on the day of a competition?
Crystal: My stomach is always upset on days I compete so I try to stick to oatmeal and whole grain bread with nut butter and fruit. I also make sure to have some green tea.
TOA: I have a similar problem! Back in high school when I had vocal contest, I wouldn’t be able to eat a thing all day until after my solo (at which point I went straight to the cafeteria and ordered one of everything, haha).
Do you practice the day before your competition, or rest?
Crystal: I have to force myself to eat something or else I won’t have energy! I have a 20 minute warm up where I just go through everything a few times. It depends on what time I compete what I do the rest of the day.
TOA: If you could pick any oatmeal recipe to eat on the day of your competition, what would it be?
Crystal: I would have berry banana baked oatmeal topped with peanut butter!
TOA: Of course you would! Well, best of luck to you with your competition next week!!
Crystal: Thank you!
