Modern Athlete Magazine January 2026 | Page 2

CONTENTS

Modern Athlete – Fresh, inspiring, and full of action!

Welcome to our relaunch edition. With a fresh new format and a lineup of must-read stories, this Jan / Feb issue is packed with content we’ re sure you’ ll love. So dive in and enjoy.

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Out the starting blocks
It’ s a super-exciting time to have taken the reins as the new editor of the monthly mag. As you’ ll see, we’ re taking a bit of a different direction, broadening our coverage to include all sports.
From padel courts to less takeout, SA’ s athletes share their 2026 resolutions
It’ s a brand-new year and so we asked some of South Africa’ s top athletes about their goals and hopes for 2026 …
SA’ s rising stars
From the track to the trails, South Africa’ s next generation of athletes is ready to step up. Meet some of the rising stars you should keep an eye on in 2026 …

ON THE COVER

EVENTS
FEATURE

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2026 Sports Calendar
2026 promises to be an epic year – with the Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup and a Commonwealth Games all coming up in the next few months. Check out some of the events we have to look forward to …
The Elite Mindset – with Dr Kirsten van Heerden
Why small acts and consistency beat grand gestures every time when it comes to mental resets for athletes.
Could the Dusi crown an undisputed king?
Catch up with Andy Birkett as he heads to the 2026 Dusi Canoe Marathon where he has the chance to claim an incredible record 16 th title.
26 things to try in 2026
Ever done a digital-free workout or learned the rules of a new sport? Looking for some inspiration? Here are 26 things to try out in 2026.
From broken to record-breaker
After years of depression, injury and self-doubt, Cape Town’ s Waris Mills found freedom, healing and history in a 45km swim around Hong Kong Island.
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NUTRITION

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The role of glucose and sodium in sports nutrition
These two get a bad rap, but understanding that glucose and sodium are two key players in sports nutrition, which work hand-in-hand to fuel performance and maintain hydration during exercise, is crucial.
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