As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Italy, first-time U.S. Olympian Grace Henderson is embracing a moment she has chased for more than a decade. Speaking from Livigno Snow Park, the Durham, New Hampshire native reflected on the long road to qualifying for the Games and the discipline it takes to compete at the highest level in freestyle skiing.

For Henderson, simply making the Olympic team was her first and biggest goal. After attempting to qualify in three previous Olympic cycles, earning her place on Team USA marked the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Now that she is finally on the world stage, her focus has shifted. Like any elite competitor, she hopes to stand on the podium. “I’m going to give it my all,” she said, determined to push herself in the Women’s Slopestyle and Big Air events.

Beyond competition, Henderson is soaking in the atmosphere of the Olympic experience. She described the thrill of living in the Olympic Village, meeting fellow athletes, and seeing the crowds gather. Having family and friends travel to Italy to support her makes the moment even more meaningful. Their presence, she said, is a reminder of the support system that has backed her dream for years.

Competing in freestyle skiing demands more than technical skill on the slopes. Henderson emphasized that strength training and conditioning are central to her preparation. Freeskiing involves high speeds, large jumps, and hard landings, all of which put intense strain on the body. Having dealt with multiple injuries throughout her career, she prioritizes building strength to withstand impact and reduce risk. Hours in the gym complement her time on snow, helping her maintain durability and power.

Off the slopes, Henderson stays active with activities she genuinely enjoys, including surfing, golfing, and backpacking. These hobbies not only keep her fit but also provide balance in a sport that can be physically and mentally demanding.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in sustaining her performance. Henderson focuses on fueling her body with carbohydrates for energy and protein for muscle recovery. Before workouts, she makes sure to eat carbs and fruit for quick energy, along with protein to support muscle growth. After training, she prioritizes protein intake to rebuild and maintain strength. During long ski sessions, when breaks are limited, she relies on steady, balanced meals to keep her energy levels stable.

While she doesn’t follow a strict scientific formula for her diet, Henderson listens carefully to her body. Through experience, she has learned which foods make her feel strong and which leave her sluggish. Travel can make routine difficult, but she adapts quickly, finding options that help her feel her best. She no longer counts calories, explaining that focusing on numbers became unhealthy in the past. Instead, she emphasizes intuitive eating—responding to hunger and energy needs rather than rigid restrictions.

Henderson also believes balance is important. While she typically chooses clean, natural foods, she allows herself occasional treats, especially when not competing the next day. “Keeping yourself happy is just as important as fueling yourself correctly,” she noted, highlighting the mental side of performance.

Hydration remains a constant priority, even in winter conditions. She carries a large water bottle and drinks frequently throughout the day, aware that altitude, travel, and cold weather can still lead to dehydration.

What Henderson loves most about freestyle skiing is its creativity. Unlike timed races, slopestyle is judged, allowing athletes to express individuality in their runs. No two performances look the same. On any given day, the winner is the athlete who combines technical skill with artistry and flow.

As she competes in her first Olympics, Henderson embodies both the athletic discipline and personal joy that define elite sport—driven by preparation, sustained by support, and fueled by passion.