Viral Olympics star Kim Ye Ji says she commuted 90 km (56 miles) on her bicycle every day to practice shooting

AKP STAFF

www.insight.co.kr

2024 Olympic silver medalist Kim Ye Ji revealed that she strengthened her stamina by commuting 90 kilometers (56 miles) daily by bicycle.

On the September 4 episode of tvN's variety show 'You Quiz on the Block,' Kim Ye Ji shared this surprising regimen during her conversation with hosts Yoo Jae Suk and Jo Se Ho.

She explained that for efficient physical training, she cycled approximately 90 kilometers (55.92 miles) round trip between Jeonju and Imsil. When asked why by Yoo Jae Suk, she elaborated, "I thought to myself 'What would be the most efficient way to train while also saving time?' I would leave at 5 AM and cycle for two and a half hours to the shooting range." This intense workout resulted from her desire to optimize her time while maintaining her fitness. In total, Kim Ye Ji would spend more than five hours cycling daily.

Despite the rigorous routine, Kim Ye Ji recounted an accident in which she fell from her bicycle and suffered injuries, including tearing up her chin. She explained, "The skin on the chin was all scraped. It hurt so bad that I thought my jaw was broken. I moaned while holding my chin for a while."

Despite the pain, she chose to continue cycling to the shooting range rather than seeking medical attention, displaying her remarkable dedication and determination as a national athlete. She further explained, "I remembered, 'I have to go to work' so I put my helmet back on and continued to bike to work while bleeding. I was ashamed when I didn't put this kind of determination to use."

Netizens responded with awe, commenting, "Wow, a 90 km round trip?", "National athletes truly have different mental strength," "It's something I can't imagine I would be able to do," "She's amazing," and "It's amazing to see her commitment."

Meanwhile, Kim Ye Ji recently won a silver medal in the 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She also won gold in the 25m air pistol event and silver in the 10m air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in July 2024, adding to her impressive achievements in the sport.