Share

Q&A: Carla van Huyssteen

Knysna - Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a multi-sport athlete, or thought about entering the Big 5 Sports Challenge - or the all new Big 5 LITE - to see for yourself?

We sat with Carla van Huyssteen - beautiful, talented and determined, she was a Big 5 2013 podium finisher - for a sneak peak on the experience.

Here’s what she had to say...

What are your secrets to success – what does a person need to do to be a successful multi-sport competitor?

Carla: There are no real secrets, you just have to work at your skill/fitness/strength in whatever discipline you prefer, on a continuous basis, CONSISTENCY is key!! Gaining good technique in the various disciplines will also really help your training effort.

What do you like best about the Big 5 Sport Challenge?

Carla: I like the variability, having to take on multiple disciplines is always a challenge. The whole week is very festive and the Big5 competitors have a sort of camaraderie in the suffering of racing on really sore legs.

Tell us about your training regime – what is a typical workout programme entail? Do you have any training tips you can share with others thinking of doing the Big Five Challenge for the first time?

Carla: I have followed various training regimes under different coaches. Basically 2 workouts a day, am and pm,(adding in strength or recovery as a 3rd) , which varies between all the disciplines and training outcomes (eg. easy, intervals, long aerobic etc). I don’t think there is one specific training regime that works more than the other, it all depends on your situation, time constraints, and what your area has to offer. A tip, be aerobically as fit as possible, don’t over do the high intensity training, recover well.

How do you keep yourself motivated when the going gets tough? Do you have a favourite training soundtrack you like to listen to?

Carla: When the going gets tough, my motivation comes from knowing that I am blessed to be a pro athlete, a “job” that lots of people would love to have, so stop moaning and get one with it!! Not really, I like a variety of music, but anything with a good beat that can get me going.

How do you reward yourself after a particularly challenging competition?

Carla: With a chocolate croissant!!

Feeling motivated to enter the challenge yourself? Here’s the link with all the information you need: http://www.oysterfestival.co.za/the-big-5-sports-challenge/

 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE