An Olympic silver medal in men's cross-country skiing marks a significant achievement for Ben Ogden, bringing the United States its first medal in the sport in fifty years. The Milano Cortina Games saw Ogden achieve this milestone, a result he attributes, in part, to the calming effects of his knitting habit. This unusual practice, shared by some of his teammates, offers a unique insight into the mental strategies employed by elite athletes.
Background and Achievement
Ben Ogden's journey to the Olympic podium was built methodically throughout the race. His silver medal in the men's sprint classic is a noteworthy accomplishment, breaking a long-standing drought for US men's cross-country skiing. Prior to this event, Ogden had already achieved significant success, including a three-time NCAA championship at the University of Vermont.
The Role of Knitting in Performance
Knitting has emerged as a surprising tool for Ben Ogden and his teammates to manage the pressures of elite competition. The practice offers a method of relaxation and a creative outlet amidst demanding training and racing schedules.
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Ben Ogden explicitly credited the relaxation he finds in knitting for his performance.
Teammates Jessie Diggins and Julia Kern have also shared their own woven creations on social media.
Yarn has been ordered for delivery to the Italian Alps, indicating the widespread adoption of this activity within the team.
Ogden's current knitting projects include a pair of mittens and a more elaborate project featuring the historical figure Joan of Arc.
Ogden's Athletic Philosophy
Ben Ogden's broader approach to his sport emphasizes the social connections and the enjoyment of being outdoors. He views the intense, high-profile events like the Olympics as fundamentally the same as the races he competes in throughout the year.
"Without a doubt the most incredible aspect of my career in cross country skiing has been the people I have met." - Ben Ogden
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His training regimen involves cross-country ski racing globally in winters and training in Vermont during summers.
He embraces being a multi-sport athlete during the summer months, a benefit of training year-round for a winter sport.
Ogden's perspective is that even major events are, at their core, familiar races with the same competitors.
Team USA's Approach to Mental Fortitude
The use of knitting by Team USA cross-country skiers highlights a broader trend of athletes seeking diverse methods to maintain mental equilibrium.
Julia Kern was observed working on a blue and burgundy hat during Olympic pre-camp.
The desire to make things is a driving force behind this creative engagement.
The team's proactive approach includes arranging for yarn deliveries to their Olympic location.
Expert Analysis
While direct expert commentary on the specific link between knitting and Ogden's Olympic performance is not detailed in the provided data, the practice aligns with recognized sports psychology principles. The act of knitting can provide a mindful distraction, reduce heart rate, and promote a sense of control through the creation of tangible items. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes facing high-stakes situations, offering a counterbalance to the inherent stress of competition. The methodical, repetitive nature of knitting can facilitate a state of flow, allowing the mind to quiet external pressures and focus on a calming, familiar task.
Conclusion and Implications
Ben Ogden's silver medal is a landmark achievement for US cross-country skiing. His candid discussion of knitting as a contributing factor underscores the importance of mental well-being and unconventional coping mechanisms in elite sports. The embrace of knitting by multiple members of Team USA suggests a team-wide recognition of the need for strategies that foster calm and focus. This highlights a growing understanding that athletic success is not solely dependent on physical prowess but also on robust mental preparation and the adoption of personal routines that support sustained performance under pressure.
Sources
The Guardian: Published 15 minutes ago. Details Ben Ogden's Olympic silver medal win and his mention of knitting.
Link: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/feb/10/ben-ogden-cross-country-skiing-olympics-knitting
NBC Olympics: Published 3 days ago. Discusses Team USA cross-country skiers, including Ben Ogden, Jessie Diggins, and Julia Kern, using knitting for relaxation.
Link: https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/team-usa-cross-country-skiers-turn-yarn-relaxation
AOL (via stio.com): Source provides biographical details on Ben Ogden, his background, and his views on cross-country skiing.
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