With just 13 days remaining until the prestigious Goldenes Oval meet in Dresden, German track sensation Alica Schmidt is giving fans a glimpse into the training routine that’s shaping her for what will be her first-ever 800-meter race. Known for her athletic discipline, consistency, and engaging presence off the track, Schmidt recently shared highlights of her training camp schedule — and it’s nothing short of inspiring.
Taking on the 800m is no small task. Unlike her usual 400m sprints, the two-lap race requires a perfect combination of endurance, speed, race strategy, and mental toughness. In response, Schmidt’s training has intensified to meet the new challenge. Her current program, designed by elite coaches and performance experts, blends sprint mechanics, aerobic conditioning, strength training, and tactical race preparation — all while prioritizing recovery and injury prevention.
Here’s an inside look at what a typical day in training camp looks like for Alica Schmidt:
Morning Session: Endurance & Speed Work
The day begins early, often around 7:30 AM, with a light jog and dynamic stretching to wake up the body. After warming up, Schmidt hits the track for a demanding interval workout tailored to 800m racing. These sessions may include:
- 3x600m intervals at race pace
- 6x300m repeats with short recovery
- Tempo runs or progressive sprints focusing on pacing control
These morning workouts are designed to push her aerobic threshold while sharpening her sprint speed for the final stages of the race.
“The 800m is about rhythm and resilience,” Schmidt shared. “You can’t just rely on sprint speed. You have to train your body to stay strong through fatigue.”
Midday Recovery: Refuel & Reset
After the morning session, it’s time for recovery — both nutritional and physical. Alica focuses on hydration, refueling with protein and complex carbs, and incorporating active recovery like light cycling or foam rolling. She also dedicates time to mental preparation, including visualization exercises and brief meditation to stay focused.
Afternoon Session: Gym & Strength Training
In the afternoon, Schmidt heads to the weight room. Strength training is essential, not only for explosive power but also for muscular balance and injury prevention. Her sessions include:
- Deadlifts, squats, and lunges for lower-body strength
- Core-focused circuits
- Plyometrics and resistance sprints for power output
She trains under careful supervision, ensuring she lifts with purpose and proper form, targeting the muscle groups most involved in sprinting and mid-distance running.
Evening: Stretching, Recovery & Sleep Prep
To close out the day, Schmidt takes part in a cooldown routine involving stretching, mobility work, and sometimes light yoga. Her evenings are reserved for rest, good food, and preparing her body for the next day’s workload. Adequate sleep — at least 8 hours — is non-negotiable.
With 13 days left until race day, every session, every rep, and every rest counts. Alica Schmidt is pushing herself physically and mentally, proving that true champions are built in the quiet hours of preparation, long before the spotlight ever hits the track. Fans are eagerly waiting, and if her training is any indication, Schmidt’s 800m debut will be one to remember.