Exclusive interview with Ellie Black, Champion gymnast and Sober Carpenter Ambassador

The Sober Carpenter team had the opportunity to snag an exclusive interview with Ellie Black: Insights from the Champion gymnast and Sober Carpenter Ambassador🤸‍♀️ 🙌🍻

How many medals do you have?🏆🏅 Well, at 28, I've competed in seven World Championships and three Olympics. I've snagged three World Championships medals and numerous Pan American Games medals. It's been quite the ride!

How many hours do you train?🏋️ I train about five times a week, putting in anywhere from two to six hours a day. It's a lot of hard work, but it's what it takes to excel in the gym!

What's your zodiac sign? ♍ I'm proudly a Virgo!

What did you study? I've taken kinesiology courses at Dalhousie University.

Do you enjoy cooking? 👨‍🍳 Absolutely! After a long day at the gym, refueling is crucial. I love cooking up dishes like linguine with roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, eggplant, and eggs. Simple, tasty, high in protein and iron.

What's your favorite non-alcoholic Sober Carpenter beer? 🍻 Oh, I have a few favorites! I love the West Coast IPA for its tropical fruit notes, and the Raspberry Sour for those cooler days!

How important is recovery for athletes, and how does non-alcoholic beer like Sober Carpenter play a role in your regimen? 🍻

Recovery is vital for maintaining peak performance, and Sober Carpenter is my go-to choice for proper hydration, offering a variety of delicious alcohol-free beers, and staying hangover-free. Celebrating while prioritizing health, non-alcoholic beverages not only promote better sleep and aid in recovery, but also ensure a clear head for continued enjoyment. Not only does it aid in replenishing my body after workouts, but it also allows me to indulge, celebrate victories, and unwind while staying at the top of my game.

Have you tried cold baths for recovery? 🧊 Yes! I tried the Polar Dip in Halifax this winter. It was quite the experience, very refreshing and great for recovery and focus. I also regularly take cold baths to reduce inflammation.

Are you an animal lover? 🐶Absolutely! My two favorite adventure companions are my dogs, Koby and Keiko.

What's your advice for aspiring athletes? 💪✌️ Remember, everything you need to be great is already inside you and my Moto is: Dream big and don’t let anyone else set your limits.

How do you unwind in your free time? Taking a walk with my dogs and cooking a home meal are my go-to ways to relax. It's therapeutic and fulfilling!

Any tips for staying balanced as an athlete? Definitely! Taking breaks from technology, spending time with loved ones, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, and treating yourself when you've been working hard are key.

What does a healthy lifestyle mean to you? It's not just about exercise and diet—it's about holistic well-being, including social health and pursuing passions to avoid burnout.

Can you share an easy snack recipe for energy? Of course! Energy balls are my favorite. Here's a simple recipe:

• 1 ¼ cups rolled oats
• 1 ½ tbsp chia seeds
• 1 ½ tbsp flax seeds
• 1 ½ tbsp shredded coconut
• 1 ½ tbsp mini dark chocolate chips
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup nut butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp kosher salt Mix all ingredients, chill for 30 minutes, then roll into balls.