Jakob Schubert

With yoga on the Olympic gold medal mission to Paris

Jakob Schubert is aiming high at the Olympics.

(Bild: KVÖ/Haller)

The new series on the upcoming Olympic Games: The Tyroleans in Paris! Part 1 deals with the exceptional Innsbruck climber Jakob Schubert, who left nothing to chance for the Games: he (also) chose Indian teachings, focused on stretching and prepared himself with mental exercises.

Jakob Schubert doesn't beat about the bush. The 33-year-old has set himself a big goal for the Olympic Games: "I want to win gold in Paris!" The Innsbruck native likes to talk openly about his goals - and has already proven often enough that he can put them into practice.

Before the 2018 home World Championships in Innsbruck, he was determined to win gold at home. The most successful sport climber of all time achieved this twice - he won in both lead climbing and combined climbing.

This is how Jakob Schubert wants to celebrate in Paris.

(Bild: ANDREAS_AUFSCHNAITER)

Bronze medal secured in Tokyo
At the Olympic premiere in Tokyo (which was a combination of lead climbing, bouldering and speed), he was able to secure the bronze medal with the best performance in lead climbing.

In Paris, Schubert will be competing as the reigning world champion in the new Olympic combination of bouldering and lead climbing. He is already looking forward to it. "The organization in Paris is much more relaxed this time than in Tokyo. Funnily enough, the qualification is even split up: first bouldering, then a rest day, then lead climbing, another rest day and only then the final," explained Jakob: "If I can't do it in terms of fitness, then I don't know."

I tried to put myself in the position of fighting for gold, to simulate pressure and nervousness.

Jakob Schubert

Qualified for the match early
After qualifying early for this year's Games, the climbing star deliberately avoided rock climbing and only climbed on artificial walls.

And has also broken new ground - thanks to his girlfriend. She recommended yoga to him. And once a week, Jakob followed the Indian teachings (with his trainer). "It doesn't harm my flexibility," grins the climber, "and it's ideal for switching off."

A confident look to Paris.

(Bild: GEPA pictures)

Special training at the Olympic Center
He has also dedicated himself to stretching and special strength training at the Innsbruck Olympic Center. Also with positive effects: "Perhaps coincidence, but I haven't been injured for a long time."

Schubert even simulated the worst-case scenario in training: "I tried to put myself in the position of fighting for gold, to simulate pressure and nervousness." He played through the situation in his head as if everything was at stake. Anything that helps, helps in the mission for gold.