Top USA speed skaters rely on cycling and perseverance for 2026 Olympics

Jordan Stolz and Erin Jackson say intense summer cycling and weight training build the endurance they need for the 2026 Winter Olympics, while injuries such as disc herniations have led some athletes to alter parts of their preparation.

Team USA speed skaters Jordan Stolz and Erin Jackson described how summer road cycling and strength work form a major part of their preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. They trade skates for long rides and weight sessions to build a base of endurance and power. Some athletes also adapt training because of injuries, especially spinal disc issues. The pair spoke to UPI about their routines and about managing physical strain while counting down to Milan Cortina 2026. Key points: - Stolz reports very high summer workloads, sometimes more than 425 miles per week and individual rides of about five hours covering roughly 85 miles. - Stolz is noted as a world record holder in the 1,000 and an American record-holder in the 500 and 1,500; he cited peak pedal power of about 2,100–2,300 watts and recent World Cup success. - Jackson is the 2022 Olympic 500-meter champion and plans to defend that title while also competing in the 1,000-meter event; she called cycling her main form of cardio. - The team combines cycling with dry-land training, weightlifting at least twice weekly, and on-ice sessions about five days a week. - Jackson reported three lower-back disc herniations and a recent hamstring tear, and she has adjusted some workouts to use elliptical and aqua jogging when needed. - The speed skating schedule for Milan Cortina 2026 begins Feb. 7 with the women's 3,000-meter final and runs through Feb. 21, which includes the men's and women's mass start finals. Summary: Their summer endurance work and strength training are presented as central to preparing for Milan Cortina 2026, while injury management remains an ongoing concern for some athletes. Competition opens Feb. 7 and continues through Feb. 21, as skaters bring those preparations to the Olympic ice.