Four-time Olympic medalist Angela Ruggiero lists 10 essential ingredients for achieving athletic success:

1. Play a sport you love;
2. Supportive parents
3. Eat right;
4. Set goals, don't have them set for you;
5. Strength and conditioning training;
6. Stay hydrated;
7. Be willing to make sacrifices;
8. Develop a good support system (coaches, trainers, school etc.);
9. Listen and be good to your body (don't ignore chronic injuries; recognize that injuries are a part of sport); and
10. Have fun!