Life as an Olympian

With the Olympics underway in Beijing, it's easy to get inspired. Let some of Team USA's top athletes help you take up a new sport, master your favorite ones and raise your fitness to an all-time high.
The United States reinvented its Olympic men's basketball program in hopes of a gold medal. But international teams continue to progress, making the competition even stronger.
The way Brenda Villa sees it, the 2008 Beijing Olympics may be her last chance at a gold medal, after winning silver and bronze in her first two tries.
If you want to play like an Olympian, start by eating like one. The head athletic trainer for the U.S. Men's Olympic Volleyball team shares nutrition secrets for top performance.
U.S. Olympic team member Amy Tran has enjoyed a remarkable career as the nation's top field hockey goalkeeper. Her accomplishments reached another level when she helped the U.S. reach the Beijing Olympics.
Active Expert and former Olympian Jeff Galloway shares the training routine he experienced before heading to the Games.
Find out how many countries are expected to participate, what the mascots represent and why the opening ceremonies are on August 8.
Want to know how some of the world's best swimmers train? Find out how top butterfly swimmer Kim Vandenberg prepared for her quest for gold in Beijing.
Find out what Olympic veteran and table tennis star Jun Gao is most looking forward to at the Games.
Olympic power hitters don't usually stand 5-foot-4 and have a love for tapdance. But USA Softball star Vicky Galindo is not your ordinary fastpitch slugger.
Find out what table tennis star Crystal Huang does to unwind after a hard day of practice.
Scott Russell is in line to represent Canada at the 2008 Olympics. Here's a look at his climb toward being an elite athlete, and what he does to keep his javelin throws among the longest in the world.
Find out what U.S. Sailing Olympian Amanda Clark is most looking forward to at the Games.
The U.S. women's field hockey team qualified for the Beijing Olympics, its first trip to the Games since 1996. One of the key players is Keli Smith, a forward/midfielder who's enjoyed a decorated career since she was 13.
Find out what U.S. Sailing star Andrew Campbell has on his iPod playlist.
Pollution concerns have some worried athletes backing out of the Olympics. Make sure the air around you is optimal and find out how you can breathe easier during outdoor workouts.
It's been a long road for the Olympic athletes representing their countries in Beijing. Use their inspiration to start on your own path to become the best.
What do a 100K track race and a 12-hour track race have in common? They were two of the six cycling events staged at the 1896 Olympics. In this Olympic year, take a look at the creation and evolution of the Games.
Photo: Steve Powell/Getty Images
Find out what Olympian Heather Corrie eats during a typical training meal.
Until they're splashed across our TV screens, most Olympians aren't household names. Would you notice one standing beside you?
From proper nutrition to just getting time on the bike, Arielle Martin talks about key components of BMX training.
While simply going to the Olympics is an honor, the ultimate goal is to win gold. So which method of selecting athletes will send the best to Beijing?
AP Photo/Color China Photo
Find out what's on Olympian Julie Swail Ertel's iPod playlist.
Beijing's air quality has some athletes wondering if competing in the Olympics is worth the risk to their health. But can a single, limited-time exposure to air pollution lead to permanent damage?
AP Photo/Oded Balilty
Find out what triathlete Jarrod Shoemaker eats while he's training.
Jeff Galloway describes how he went from a young man without direction to making the Olympic team--and made his "impossible dream" a reality one step at a time.
This August, Olympic triathletes will compete for only the third time ever. Here's a look at the organization and history of the Games.
AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac
Unlike its long-distance cousin, Olympic triathlon is fast-paced, down-to-the-wire competitive and spectator friendly. So how do these athletes earn the right to toe the line in Beijing come August?
AP Photo/Andre Penner
Being part of the biggest sporting event in the world takes planning, investment and commitment--whether you're an athlete or the host city. Here's a breakdown of Olympics past and future.
AP Photo/David Guttenfelder
Tap into the power of Olympic weight lifting and experience the best gains of your life.