Wilma Rudolph

Olympic Champion

Wilma Glodean Rudolph was an American sprinter born in Saint Bethlehem, Tennessee, who became a world-record-holding Olympic champion and international sports icon in track and field following her successes in the 1956 and 1960 Olympic Games. 1 2 3

Daily Routine

Wilma Rudolph worked part-time which allowed her to cover her university tuition and living costs. While she was working and studying, Wilma also trained vigorously on the track. In order to become a member of the track club, Tigerbelles, at Tennessee state university she was required to maintain a “B” grade average or higher.

The Olympic champion engaged in a heavily demanding daily routine. At night Wilma snuck out her accommodation, through the fire escape, and practiced from 8 to 10 pm. Once she finished training, she’d sneak back into her dorm in time for bed checks. Wilma sustained this exhaustive routine every day for 3 years.