Jordan Chiles, a two-time Olympian and now a graduating senior from UCLA, has had an emotional journey as she transitions out of collegiate gymnastics. Her recent performance at the NCAA gymnastics championships marks her last competition as a UCLA Bruin, and it’s one she describes as bittersweet and unforgettable. The 25-year-old athlete walked away with her second NCAA floor exercise title and the prestigious American Athletic, Inc. Award, a distinction that celebrates one exemplary gymnastics senior each year.
- Jordan Chiles concludes her collegiate gymnastics career with a second NCAA floor exercise title.
- She is partnering with Pure Leaf Mental Focus, promoting focus-enhancing sparkling teas.
- Her post-competition rituals include indulging in fast food and pineapple pizza, alongside prioritizing mental health recovery.
- Chiles credits cryotherapy and family time as essential recovery practices.
From UCLA Champion to Postgraduate Life
Reflecting on her four years at UCLA, Chiles admits they were transformative. “My four years at UCLA were the best thing that could have ever happened to me,” she shared. While she wishes she could relive her collegiate years, she’s ready to embrace new challenges. “Life has to go on. We’ve got to keep pushing,” she noted, emphasizing her forward-looking mindset.
As she prepares for graduation, Chiles is balancing a packed schedule. She’s currently on the Dancing With the Stars tour and has partnered with Pure Leaf Mental Focus, a sparkling iced tea designed to enhance concentration with ingredients like caffeine and L-theanine. For Chiles, the collaboration felt natural: “I am constantly on the go. I can sip this drink and focus on what I need to do.” The brand also offers a Mental Focus Dock, designed to block phone notifications, something Chiles appreciates as she works to minimize distractions.
Recovery Rituals and Mental Health Priorities
For Chiles, maintaining mental health is a priority, especially given the high-stakes nature of gymnastics competitions. “A lot of the time, I just relax,” she explained. Whether it’s spending time with family, binge-watching Netflix, or simply being alone to reflect, Chiles finds solace in stepping away from the spotlight when needed.
She also credits her fellow gymnasts for sharing valuable recovery tips. “I think it was Ali Raisman who told me about cryotherapy,” Chiles said, describing how spending three minutes in a freezing chamber helped rejuvenate her body during her younger, more active years.
Pizza, Playlists, and Wellness Favorites
Chiles has her own unique way of celebrating after a successful meet: pineapple pizza. “I’ll reward myself with a pepperoni, sausage, pineapple, and black olive pizza,” she said. While pineapple on pizza remains a controversial choice, it’s clear Chiles is unapologetic about her preferences.
Her wellness essentials, however, are more universally agreed upon. Chiles swears by Hero Cosmetics’ Mighty Patch to keep her skin in check, Reisport’s Hook & Loop Grips for gymnastics, and Nike’s Recovery Foam Roller for post-competition muscle care.
When it comes to her cool-down playlist, Chiles opts for empowering artists like Beyoncé, Normani, Kehlani, Victoria Monét, and SZA, creating a vibe of confidence and calm.
What This Means for You
Jordan Chiles’ story is a powerful reminder of the importance of balancing ambition with self-care. Whether you’re chasing athletic dreams, academic goals, or career milestones, her approach to recovery and mindfulness is worth emulating. Celebrate your wins—whether with pizza, a favorite playlist, or time spent with family—and don’t shy away from taking breaks when your body and mind need them.
Her collaboration with Pure Leaf Mental Focus also highlights the growing emphasis on tools and products designed to enhance focus in our increasingly distracted world. If you find yourself overwhelmed by notifications and endless to-do lists, consider creating boundaries, like using a notification-blocking dock or implementing phone-free time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jordan Chiles achieve at UCLA?
Jordan Chiles won two NCAA floor exercise titles and received the American Athletic, Inc. Award during her collegiate gymnastics career.
What is Pure Leaf Mental Focus?
Pure Leaf Mental Focus is a sparkling iced tea infused with caffeine and L-theanine to support focus and concentration, which Jordan Chiles endorses.
What are Jordan Chiles’ favorite recovery practices?
Chiles prioritizes cryotherapy, quality time with family, and solo reflection to recover after competitions.
Why does Jordan Chiles love pineapple pizza?
Chiles enjoys indulging in pineapple pizza after a great competition as part of her post-meet celebration ritual.
Who’s on her cool-down playlist?
Her playlist features Beyoncé, Normani, Kehlani, Victoria Monét, and SZA.