When Nia Akins crossed the finish line at Olympic Trials, the realization that she was headed to Paris left her in awe. The 800-meter runner clinched the top spot in the final round of competition, securing her place in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to be here, and it still hasn’t fully sunk in,” Akins reflects. “The women in the 800m field are incredibly talented, and I’m honored to represent the U.S. alongside Allie [Wilson] and Juliette [Whittaker]. Making it to Paris is a source of immense pride for me.”
All three women set to race the 800m for Team USA are Olympic newcomers, following a dramatic final at the Trials where favorite Athing Mu stumbled and fell. Akins, a 25-year-old from California, describes the emotional rollercoaster leading up to the games.
“Above all, I’m eager to compete. But I also can’t wait to indulge in as many croissants as I can while in Paris, as it will be my first time there. My entire family is joining me, and I’m thrilled—my little sister has already planned her outfits!”
When she’s not on the track, here are three things Akins enjoys off-duty.
1. She plays the guitar and writes her own music
“During the pandemic, I started taking guitar lessons, which evolved into songwriting and releasing my own music on Spotify. My first song, ‘Paper Boats,’ was released under the name Teddy Oliver,” Akins shares.
Related Stories
She’s currently working on her first album and plans to release another single before the Olympics.
“Music is a wonderful way for me to take a break and decompress from the intensity of my training. It serves as a positive distraction from running—I make it a point to schedule studio time after races to process and unwind.”
“Prioritizing self-care is crucial, especially in preparation for Paris 2024. Maintaining a strong, healthy mentality for training and competition is paramount.”
2. She practices self-care
“Dedicating time to self-care is essential, particularly as I train for Paris 2024. Cultivating a resilient, healthy mindset for training and competing is vital,” she emphasizes. “My favorite form of self-care is simply being still. Finding a serene spot with a beautiful view, going for a brief walk, or driving to release the day’s stresses and worries, and staying present.”
This mindful practice has numerous scientifically proven benefits, including reducing anxiety and enhancing mood, according to the National Institutes of Health.
3. She prioritizes recovery post-training
“Regardless of the workout, a protein smoothie is a non-negotiable for me post-training to aid in recovery. I rely on NOW Sports whey protein isolate for a clean, Informed-Sport certified protein source, which gives me confidence in the products I use daily as a professional athlete,” Akins explains.
Watch Nia Akins compete in the Women’s 800-meter races starting on August 3. NBCUniversal is the official U.S. broadcaster for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, but you can also tune in on Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, NBC.com, USA Network, CNBC, and E!
