As the countdown begins for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games, athletes are preparing to showcase their skills and compete for gold on the snow and ice. Among them is U.S. snowboarder Jake Pates, who is gearing up for his second Olympic appearance after an impressive debut in PyeongChang 2018, where he finished eighth at just 19 years old. Having overcome a serious concussion, Pates has embraced an advocacy role focused on the mental health of athletes and is ready to return to the halfpipe in pursuit of Olympic glory.
In an exciting interview, Pates took a break from his rigorous training regimen to ride in the Men’s Health Muscle Car alongside fitness director Ebenezer Samuel. Discussing his sport, Pates provides a vivid description of snowboarding in the halfpipe, likening it to strapping a piece of wood to one’s feet and navigating a curved ice-covered surface designed for impressive tricks and maneuvers.
When it comes to training for snowboarding, Pates emphasizes the significance of working on the glutes, affectionately referring to them as “booty.” He shares that glute bridges and Pilates are vital parts of his workout, explaining how he integrates “sneaky Pilates” into his routine. Despite his enthusiasm for bodyweight exercises, he admits that squats are a necessary evil due to previous injuries and discomfort.
Warming up properly ahead of cold-weather runs is a priority for Pates, who often uses a Theragun and is exploring Qigong, a practice he learned from a karate master on the U.S. Team. Nutrition is equally important, with protein ranked as his priority—he even brought his preferred protein supplement, Momentous, to the Olympic Village, ensuring he has clean fuel for his body.
Throughout the interview, Pates shares insights into his personality, from humorous takes on ideal sponsorships—like the cryptocurrency Renzo—to the “non-sport” in which he believes he could win an Olympic medal: sleeping. His interactions reveal a lighthearted side, showing a passion for engaging with fans and fellow athletes alike.
As he prepares for the challenges ahead, Pates aims not only for personal excellence but also to inspire others regarding mental health in sports. With determination and the support of his community, the snowboarder looks forward to making a memorable impact at the 2026 Winter Games.