The Winter Olympics have captivated audiences with everything from vibrant rings-shaped pasta served at the athletes’ village to an unofficial pierogi mascot brought by Team Poland. Amidst the various festivities, announcements, and unique delicacies, there’s a particular buzz around the new limited-edition Hershey’s chocolate medals that have been making headlines recently. Yet, one of the standout athletes, who has captured hearts with his performances, doesn’t need an extravagant treat to prepare for competition.
In fact, U.S. figure skater Ilia Malinin, now an Olympic gold medalist, has a surprisingly straightforward pre-competition ritual that has everyone intrigued. For years, Malinin has turned to a classic Hershey’s bar as a source of motivation before stepping onto the ice.
Ilia Malinin’s Pre-Competition Ritual: Hershey’s Chocolate Bar
Ilia Malinin stands out in the world of figure skating. This Olympic gold medalist has mesmerized audiences with his remarkable routines. Known as the “Quad God” in skating circles, he performs athletic feats that seem effortless.
So how does he achieve such remarkable performances? Certainly, it involves relentless practice and dedication. Yet, there’s one more ingredient in his routine: a Hershey’s chocolate bar. During an interview with NBC, Malinin shared that indulging in a Hershey’s bar has become a vital part of his preparation before he competes.
This revelation comes as a surprise to many. Well-known athletes have their own unique pre-competition foods. For example, Super Bowl champion Travis Kelce enjoys French toast before games. Olympic icon Simone Biles has a penchant for s’mores-stuffed cookies, while fellow gymnast and gold medalist Jordan Chiles loves her Lucky Charms. For Malinin, though, that simple bar of chocolate provides more than just a quick source of energy; it plays a significant role in calming his nerves.
Malinin explains, “When I was younger, I always liked sweets and Hershey’s chocolate was my favorite. Now, it’s become a thing that takes a little bit of the nerves off my competition. It changes how I feel, so it helps me compete better.” This emotional connection to his sweet treat showcases the comforting power of familiarity.
Those of us who enjoy chocolate can certainly relate to the way it boosts mood and enhances our experiences. It’s genuine to see Malinin, amidst all the fanciful gourmet chocolates available, choose a classic, straightforward Hershey’s bar. This nostalgic choice resonates with many, reminding us of simpler pleasures.
While new flavors and seasonal shapes come and go, there’s something eternally appealing about the original. In a world filled with indulgent options, Malinin’s preference for the classic Hershey’s chocolate bar serves as a delightful reminder of the joy found in the simplest things.
