“People Who Are Very Unwell”: Kyle Dake Details His “Unconventional” Training That Helped in Making Paris Olympics Team

Jul 25, 2024 | 9:22 PM EDT

“People Who Are Very Unwell”: Kyle Dake Details His “Unconventional” Training That Helped in Making Paris Olympics Team

Jul 25, 2024 | 9:22 PM EDT

The story of U.S. wrestling icon Kyle Dake is one of constant improvement. The Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist lost multiple times to the likes of Jordan Burroughs. However, he honed his skills to surpass the Olympic gold medalist. Thanks to his “unconventional” training approach, Dake has become the man to beat at 74 kg going into the Paris Olympics.

Besides simply focusing on enhancing his technique, strength, and strategy, Dake is equally focused on changing external factors that affect training and performance. Whether it’s lifestyle changes or cross-training, the 33-year-old is constantly looking for the edge. “Everything’s a little bit different. I see what works for people who are very unwell. How do they dig themselves out of the hole?” said Dake in an exclusive interview with USA Wrestling. Dake then analyzes how to incorporate those methods into his training.

Watch What’s Trending Now!

(The story is developing…)

Written by

Sagnik Bagchi

3,368 Articles

Sagnik Bagchi is a Senior Writer at EssentiallySports, covering collegiate and Olympic sports through opinion‑driven storytelling. His volleyball reporting often spotlights program shifts and leadership changes, including Harper Murray’s evolving role and John Cook’s candid retirement reflections at Nebraska. With nearly four years in sports media, Sagnik has contributed across key beats, from the Paris 2024 Newsbreak team to behind‑the‑scenes coverage of the NHL Playoffs. An English Literature postgraduate, Sagnik’s versatility spans bodybuilding, US sports, and Olympic disciplines. As a former Senior Bodybuilding Writer, his work earned recognition from IFBB Pro Greg Doucette. His adaptability and consistency have resulted in a place in EssentiallySports’ Journalistic Excellence Program, where selected writers work with industry mentors to refine their reporting and analytical skills.

Know more

Edited by

Ananya Giri