Elite CrossFit Athlete Victor Ljungdal Is Having His Best Year So Far
A brief look at Victor Ljungdal’s Instagram is enough to propel the “How is he doing that?” question. The professional CrossFit athlete upped the difficulty level with a demanding training program and athletic performances to match along with a full-time nursing job and a busy family life. In fact, this has been his best year so far, having already won 6th place worldwide at the demanding CrossFit Open Championship. His secret to success? A great family, a solid support system of like-minded friends and co-athletes, and most of all, hard training with a positive mindset. Let’s meet him.
How did you first start your fitness journey?
I’ve been very active since I was a child. I played soccer at an elite team for my whole life but after high school, I took a break from it and joined the gym to start weightlifting. I discovered CrossFit and was hooked because I have always loved the strict and hard aspects of training. Then in 2018, I took part in a competition that went very well; I found a coach and so I embarked on my CrossFit journey.
What makes CrossFit so exciting to you?
I love the exercise variations; you have heavy lifting, running, rowing, gymnastics… There is never a dull moment with CrossFit. It doesn’t matter if you are amazing in one, you really need to be good at everything if you want to do CrossFit at an elite level and that takes practice. I also loved the team spirit; much like in soccer, everyone was polite, open, and willing to help me. I felt like part of a team which was something I’d missed since my soccer days.
Which of your athletic achievement makes you the proudest?
This year has been my best so far, as I placed 6th worldwide at the CrossFit Open Championship! I am also very proud of winning one open competition this year, something that isn’t easy in the CrossFit world. In fact, there aren’t many people that have managed to do this, and that makes me proud of my performance.
How do you prepare for a competition?
Well, tomorrow my daughter is turning one and it’s a beautiful family situation that influences my training schedule! As for preparation before a big event, I make sure I eat correctly and get the sleep I need the day before. It’s important to have the right mindset before the event and remind myself that yes, I am good at this and will try my best to prove it on the field. When you have done this type of training for quite some time you come to know and trust your abilities. A positive mindset is key.
How does diPulse help you with your everyday training?
I like the gel pads, which I can place where wherever I like. I’ve also had some issues with my back, so the SMARTBELT proved lifesaving. I even wore it while sitting at the computer during my nursing work to get my recovery in! I used the SMARTKNEE for a knee injury I had but eventually incorporated it into my everyday recovery process. It helps me remove tension from my knees and thighs while preventing further injuries.
Which programs do you use more frequently?
I use the Capillarization Program most of the time. I also use the Muscle Relaxation program after a hard workout or before, as a warm-up to get the blood flowing in the muscles. It makes a great difference to my performance.
What would you advise people that want to start doing CrossFit?
I would say to not rush, but trust the process instead. Make sure you surround yourself with like-minded people that can encourage you and provide support. If you really want to be good at it you definitely need a good coach to professionally help you in this journey from the beginning. And of course, a positive mindset!
