Q&A with Olympic Fencer Mitchell Saron
As the Olympic Games approach and as NYAC athletes are selected to compete in Paris, we will be speaking with them to gain insight into their journey to the Games, into their preparations and into their aspirations once competition begins in the cauldron of Olympic competition. Here we speak with first-time Olympian, sabreur Mitchell Saron.
Is the most challenging part of fencing mental or physical?
Both the mental and the physical are crucial in fencing. At elite levels in any sport, mental agility often gives competitors an edge. Of course physical fitness is essential, but I focus equally on mental training, using techniques like meditation, journaling and psychology, alongside rigorous physical preparation. I train at the NYAC multiple times per week when I’m not on the road.
What attribute do you possess that you feel sets you apart from other fencers?
My mentality and my training. I work extremely hard. I’m taking a very holistic approach in my daily routine. Daily training on the fencing strip, regular weightlifting and calculated nutrition, in combination with work on my mental strength. I definitely encourage my team members to do these things, but I like going to the extreme. I regularly meditate, do ice baths, use red light therapy, drink and eat raw dairy, eat only grass fed meat, cut out alcohol entirely, and my personal list goes on. To keep improving heading toward the Olympic Games, training must be full of improved repetition and strong, disciplined habits.
How did your pre-qualification training block compare to your current training preceding the Games?
A lot of my pre-qualification training mirrors my current training simply because the stakes feel the same, even though the weight on my shoulders is different. The pressure of qualifying felt like a do-or-die situation; it demanded total focus and intensity. Now, with my spot secured, the training still carries that high stakes atmosphere, but with added layers of mental preparation that I’ve built up over months. My goal is to elevate these efforts as I prepare with my teammates for the Olympics.
How are you mentally preparing for the Games?
Going to the Olympics has been a dream of mine since I was nine and got into fencing. Every morning, I set the tone for the day with a routine that includes journaling, meditation, and an ice bath—challenges that wake up my system and strengthen my mental discipline. These practices are crucial for maintaining focus and resilience throughout my training and competitions.
What have you enjoyed the most about the months preceding the Olympics, and what has been the most challenging?
The intensity, especially feeling like each day is building up to something bigger. There’s always a voice in the back of my head reminding me of what I’m working for, that we’ve got less than 90 days until we’re in Paris.
I’ve also been really lucky to have an incredible support network: my family, my girlfriend, my teammates and friends. It’s felt like a collective journey and everyone has played a role to get me here and to keep me going. Their love and warmth might even be my favorite part of this whole process heading to Paris.
In terms of challenges, any elite athlete has to make sure they don’t overtrain. With all the eagerness and dedication I’ve put in over all these years, and realizing that I’m so close to competing on the ultimate stage, it’s sometimes hard to pace myself. This is part of why I’ve had to keep such a strict schedule with all elements of my training – from mental to physical. These habits helped me get through tough injuries during the season.
Also, it’s been hard sometimes to balance my time. It’s been tricky to see friends and family when I want to, but everyone is obviously understanding. I’m lucky that I’ve been able to do so much even with my rigorous schedule.
Which elements of your fencing could be improved upon, and how do you plan on making those improvements?
There’s always room for improvement when building mental strength in high pressure situations — that not only goes for fencing, but for life. I can’t emphasize enough that meditation and visualization help so much in building mental strength, especially when you use training and practice as an opportunity to rehearse high stakes scenarios. I’m continuing to do this daily, especially going into the last competitions of the season before the Olympics.
Is your Olympic journey how you imagined it would be or different?
My Olympic journey has been more rewarding and challenging than I ever imagined. The pressure and stress have been enormous, but they’ve forged me into a better athlete and person. The camaraderie with my teammates has been the most enriching part of this experience. Our collective drive towards success in the Olympics is unmatched.
Do you have any plans, athletic or otherwise, after the Games?
After the Olympics, I hope to continue competing at the highest levels I possibly can. I’ll be looking ahead to 2028, which sounds crazy since we’re not even there yet.
As I mentioned, I’ve really enjoyed important components of my training over the last few years, especially as it relates to diet and self-care. I hope to be a voice for how others can take ownership over their nutrition and lifestyle.
Last year, I quit drinking alcohol completely, and I’ve made eating raw and whole foods the only calories that go into my body. It’s been an incredible transition and a journey that has elevated everything in my life from training, to mental health, to sleep. I definitely want to keep sharing how everyone can work smart habits and nutritional awareness into their lifestyles. You can follow my journey on my Instagram (@mitchellsaron) to see how it all unfolds in real time.