Soccer Legend Mia Hamm on Staying Active and Finding Balance

Soccer Legend Mia Hamm on Staying Active and Finding Balance

Mia Hamm: A Soccer Icon and Role Model for Active Living

Mia Hamm is considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time. As a forward for the United States women’s national team, she won two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals.

Now retired from professional soccer, Mia continues to inspire people to live active, balanced lives through her charitable work and speaking engagements.

Staying Active After Retirement

Though Mia Hamm no longer competes at an elite level, she emphasizes the importance of staying active every day. She enjoys recreational sports and outdoor activities with her family.

“You don’t have to be an athlete to get out and move your body,” Mia says. “Taking walks, riding bikes, going for a swim—those small things make a difference over time.”

Finding Balance As a Working Mom

In addition to raising three children, Mia Hamm co-owns a professional soccer team and runs a charitable foundation. So how does she balance it all?

“There’s no such thing as balance every single day,” Mia admits. “Some days your work takes priority, other days your family does. It’s about embracing that flexibility.”

Mia stresses the importance of being fully present, whatever you’re doing in the moment. “Don’t try to multitask too much,” she advises busy moms.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Through her Mia Hamm Foundation, this legendary athlete provides opportunities for young women in sports. The foundation funds bone marrow transplant research and raises awareness about marrow donation.

Mia also speaks to young athletes about embracing failures and challenges. “I wasn’t always successful as a player,” she tells them. “But I showed up and worked hard, and learned something from every setback.”

FAQ

What sports does Mia Hamm enjoy now?

Though retired from professional soccer, Mia stays active by playing recreational sports like tennis and golf, as well as outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.

How does Mia find balance as a working mom?

Mia acknowledges there’s no perfect balance every day. She embraces flexibility, focusing fully on family some days and work priorities other days. Minimizing multitasking helps her be present.

What is the mission of the Mia Hamm Foundation?

The Mia Hamm Foundation aims to inspire young women through sports participation and support bone marrow transplant research through fundraising and awareness campaigns.

What message does Mia have for young athletes?

Mia encourages young athletes to embrace failures and challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Showing up and working hard helped her achieve success as a player.

How can non-athletes be more active each day?

Mia suggests incorporating small amounts of activity into your daily routine, like taking family walks or bike rides, swimming, hiking, or recreational sports. Moving your body each day makes a big difference over time.