Let’s make it official by defining an athlete using the dictionary. Merriam-Webster defines an athlete as “a person who is trained or skilled in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical strength, agility or stamina.”

Who Qualifies as an Athlete?

In high school, if you were involved with a team sport, you were considered an “athlete.” The rest of the student body may have just been phy. ed. students. The adult version of this? Some people train and compete in sports. Others take part in physical activities for fun, fitness, or recreation.

For many people, the word “athlete” never even crosses their minds. You might look at others who have the latest gear, perfect form, and outstanding speed and think, “Now they are athletes.” But what do you call yourself?

The Power of Self-Perception in Athletic Performance

It’s easy in sports to chronically compare yourself to others. “They’re faster.” “They’re stronger.” “They have a better body.” But rather than measuring yourself against others, recognize the dedication and effort you’ve put into your own journey. Athletic performance isn’t just about podium finishes or record-breaking times—it’s about commitment, persistence, and growth. You belong in this space.

How you see yourself plays an important role in how you ultimately perform in your sport. Viewing yourself as an athlete shouldn’t be reserved only for those who get a paycheck from it. If you exercise often, work hard to get better, and try to stay fit, you are an athlete. Don’t devalue what you’re doing.

Whether you’re a top competitor, an average finisher, or cross the finish line dead last… you are an athlete!

Instead of asking if you are an athlete, think about this: No matter your shape, size, fitness level, or skills—you are an athlete! Being an athlete isn’t about how many medals you have or how many races you’ve run. It’s about the dedication, discipline, and passion you bring to your sport. This could be running, cycling, swimming, lifting, or any other physical activity.

I’m on a mission to take back this word! So if you see me using the term athlete… Yes, I am speaking directly to you. I see you, and what I see is a bad-ass athlete.

No matter where you are in your exercise journey, you deserve to fuel your body with good nutrition. Whether you compete or not, a solid nutrition plan is important. Athletic performance relies on good nutrition. Every athlete, no matter their skill level, should nourish their body. This helps with strength, endurance, and recovery.

Defining An Athlete: ALN Works with All Athlete Levels!

At Alex Larson Nutrition, we work with a wide range of athlete skill levels in our 1:1 nutrition coaching program. Even if you don’t compete, if you enjoy running, biking, or swimming for long distances, you are one of us. You deserve to fuel your body well. This helps support your sports events and training. It also boosts your daily energy, health, and body composition.

If you’re looking for support to continue doing what you love, reach out, and let’s chat more about how ALN can help.