Sports Column: Hilary Phelps
By • September 9, 2025 0 962
Meet our first sports column profile subject: Hilary Phelps.
Phelps, sister to 23-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, grew up in Towson, Maryland. At one point, she was the fastest distance swimmer in the country for her age. She later went on to swim Division 1 at Richmond University, but partying got in the way. (Eventually, her drinking led her to Alcoholics Anonymous, which she credits for saving her life, according to Today.com.)
Here, Phelps shares her favorite healthy meal and workout advice. You can follow her on Instagram at @hilaryphelps_ and on TikTok at @hilary_phelps.
Hilary Phelps crossed the finish line of her first Ironman 15 years ago.
What is your favorite healthy meal?
My favorite meal is an arugula salad with roasted chicken and a simple homemade dressing of just lemon, sea salt and olive oil. It’s fresh, nourishing and easy to throw together. I love meals that feel both grounding and energizing, and this hits both. Also, homemade butternut squash soup is perfect as we transition into the cooler temperatures of fall.
Do you have a favorite type of cardio or strength workout? And what advice would you give to someone to get a maximum workout with minimal time?
As a former Division I scholarship collegiate swimmer and Ironman triathlete, my relationship with movement has evolved over the years. These days, I move intuitively, gravitating toward practices like yoga, Pilates and The Class. They’re so powerful in their ability to build strength, connect breath with movement and reset the nervous system.
My advice? Don’t underestimate the impact of 20 intentional minutes. When you’re fully present and moving with purpose, less can be more. Tune into what your body needs. Sometimes that’s a heart-pumping flow and other times it’s grounding stillness. Either way, consistency and self-awareness go further than perfection or performance.
