As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, Israeli marathoners Maor Tiyouri and Girmaw Amare are preparing for the ultimate test of endurance. Both athletes bring unique perspectives and experiences to their Olympic preparation, showcasing their personal approaches needed to compete at the highest level in the marathon world.

Maor Tiyouri

Maor Tiyouri is set to make her third Olympic appearance in Paris 2024. Her personal goal for upcoming Olympics is to finish in the top 40, surpassing her current ranking of 85th. Tiyouri has been working hard in her preparation to reach her Olympic goal.

Her preparation includes twice-daily sessions, strength workouts, and significant rest, all conducted in the high altitudes of Sestriere in Italy. This altitude training is crucial for building endurance. In addition to her training, nutrition is a crucial part of Tiyouri’s regimen: “There are few nutritional strategies we are incorporating for this marathon block, mainly making sure I fuel properly before and after sessions”, Tiyouri argues. “A balance of carbohydrates and proteins, alongside meticulous hydration management is essential for optimal performance.”

Mental preparation is another aspect of Tiyouri’s strategy. The support of her therapist, family, and friends helps her stay focused and motivated. Despite facing increased training loads and new workouts, Tiyouri overcomes these obstacles through open communication: “I think my experience as well as sharing my feelings and thoughts with my coach and therapist have helped me mentally (and physically) overcome these challenges.”

The organized training camp in Italy allows her to concentrate solely on her preparation without additional distractions. Moreover, running a portion of the Olympic course in Paris provided valuable insights, especially regarding hydration strategies and race tactics.

“My advice to young athletes aspiring to compete in the Olympics is to always believe in yourself. You can do hard things if you set our mind to it.” – Maor Tiyouri

 

Girmaw Amare

Girmaw Amare will represent Israel for the second time at the Olympics. Balancing family life with his athletic career, Amare’s journey is marked by discipline and dedication. His personal best of 2:05:52 underscores his potential and commitment to excellence.

Amare’s daily routine starts early with two running sessions and gym workouts. Nutrition is carefully balanced, incorporating proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber, with an emphasis on hydration through water and isotonic fluids. Furthermore, post-workout recovery includes protein bars to aid muscle repair.

Besides healthy nutrition, mental health is crucial for Amare. His preparation includes meditation, guided imagery, and sessions with a mental coach. Training in conditions similar to those expected in Paris helps him acclimate to potential weather challenges. This routine helps him maintain focus and visualize his goals.

The biggest challenge for Amare has been the separation from his family during training and adapting to running in hot weather. “I started to accept these challenges by understanding that I have to make sacrifices in order to achieve my dream”, says Amare. Furthermore, the support of his wife, who manages their household and works as a nurse, provides him with the motivation needed to perform at his best. Patience, discipline, and resilience are lessons Amare has learned throughout his career.

His goal for the Olympic marathon is ambitious: to finish in the top ten. By concentrating on his best effort rather than the outcome, he manages both personal and external expectations. “ The advice that I would give to young athletes aspiring to compete in the Olympic Games is to dream big and just never give up.” – Girmaw Amare

On behalf of Volare Sports, we wish Maor Tiyouri and Girmaw Amare all the best during the Olympic Games.