The Olympics may be over, but that doesn’t mean the journey has ended. As athletes make their way home to all corners of the globe, we welcome back our own American champions who set an incredible example on the international stage. One man stands out in particular, in my mind, for pushing himself to the next level and showcasing excellency across the board. That man is Ashton Eaton.
If the name is new to you, it won’t be for long. Eaton is an all-time great Olympian, and very likely the greatest decathlete of all time — this Olympic win was yet another coronation and cemented Ashton as a true great of our time. Eaton defended his Olympic title from London, by taking the two-day, 10-event competition by equaling an Olympic record with 8893 points.
At P&G House on August 20, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.I had the opportunity to catch up with Ashton as he returned from Rio, and quizzed him on how he challenges himself to hit his physical and mental piqué. We talk about his grooming routine, what it’s like to compete on a world stage, and how he overcomes the strenuous hurdles that go hand-in-hand with being a record setting Olympian. I think you’ll learn a lot from this man!
Ashton Eaton Returns from Rio with Gold
How has the Olympic experience impacted you so far? Has the Gold Medal victory sunk in yet?
It’s had a positive impact on me, in the sense that there are a lot of young athletes coming up that will do well. I’ve also found that the spirit of Olympics is still optimistic and positive, very much alive. Yeah, I think the victory has sunk in.
At P&G House on August 20, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.What did you pack in your toiletry bag to travel to Rio?
Gillette Fusion ProShield razors. Tooth brush. Face wash. Body wash.
What does your grooming routine look like?
I’m low maintenance. I cut my hair and shave at the same time – usually shave about every four days. I always cut my fingernails too, I hate long fingernails.
Did your routine change knowing you were going to have an international audience?
No, I’m still low maintenance.
At P&G House on August 20, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.What one piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Don’t be afraid to do something you like even if you’re going to get bad grades in it in college.
What does your internal dialogue sound like when your body wants to quit, but you know you have to keep going?
It’s like the devil and angel on your shoulders type of thing. One second it’s like, “come on, let’s pack it in,” and the next it’s like, “no, come on you, idiot! You’re not going to die, keep going, it’ll be over soon and definitely worth it!”
What do the last 5-10 minutes look like before any big event? Do you have a pre-game ritual?
No, I don’t have a ritual. I just put on my uniform, make sure I have all my shoes and my jersey, just make sure I’m ready.
While competing, do you zone out the crowd noise or use it as motivation?
Use it as motivation.
At P&G House on August 20, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.What is your Male Standard?
We should always try to transcend our limits.
Thank you, Ashton, for taking the time to talk with Male Standard, I appreciate it, and congrats again on your incredible accomplishments. We are all incredibly proud!
You can get more inspirational stories and grooming tips by following @Gillette on all the usual social media channels.
