“We’re Not Weightlifters” — Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall share glimpses of fun workout sessions as they gear up for the track season
Tara Davis-Woodhall and her husband, Hunter Woodhall, recently revealed their unique approach to strength training through a playful workout video. The couple shared insights into their athletic philosophy, emphasizing that their training is not about lifting heavy weights but improving their performance in track and field.
The couple shared the video on Instagram, filmed in the weight room at Kansas State University; the couple explained their focus on functional movement rather than pure strength training.
The Paralympic champion pointed out that weights are not intended to enhance their athletic skills but to improve movement efficiency and positioning, which directly contribute to their track performances. As Hunter Woodhall began lifting weights, a voiceover played where he explained:
"Good for the fall. It's not about how much weight you lift. It's about how efficiently you move it. Trying to learn positioning. Things that will benefit us on the track. We're not weightlifters. We're lifting weights to get good at track. Let's see if I can do it."
Davis-Woodhall also demonstrated her skills in a playful moment, hanging from a bar and moving her body in circular motions. While doing so, she recalled a childhood memory of swinging similarly on bars during middle school. She said:
"I used to do that when I was in middle school and these like little swinging bars. I told Hunter that's when my best friend like she tackled me when I was doing that." (0:34)
Tara Davis-Woodhall clinched a gold medal in the women's long jump at the 2024 Paris Olympics and a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships. She is also a skilled hurdler. Meanwhile, Hunter Woodhall, a track and field athlete, won a gold medal in the men's 400m T62 at the 2024 Summer Paralympics.
Tara Davis-Woodhall's husband reflects on his wife's support during the 2024 Paris Olympics
Before heading to the Paris Olympics, Hunter Woodhall reflected on their training routine in July 2024. He discussed the challenges they faced during the lead-up to the games, including getting fit, qualifying, and refining their skills.
The Paralympic gold medalist shared that these challenges became more manageable thanks to the support they offered each other. Tara Davis-Woodhall's husband also emphasized the value of having his wife by his side throughout the process.
He highlighted how their shared journey strengthened their resolve as both athletes were preparing for the biggest event of their careers. With a partner who understands the intensity of their lives, constant support became an invaluable part of their preparation.
Reflecting on their journey, Woodhall said:
“I think it's more of an advantage for us, and we have each other to lean on,” says Hunter, “and really just to be there for each other and support each other. And I think the challenges has been the past nine months, just getting to this point, getting fit, getting ready, qualifying for the games, and all that stuff." (si.com)
The duo, Tara Davis-Woodhall, and her husband, shared their intense daily routine, which involved three to five hours of training each day.