VIDEO EXCLUSIVE: U.S. Rock Climber Brooke Raboutou Sets Sights On Paris Olympics

As the clock ticks down to the 2024 Paris Olympics, U.S. rock climbing star Brooke Raboutou is taking a measured approach to her preparations, focusing on the present while eyeing a potential medal.

Raboutou, 23, who made history as part of the first U.S. Olympic climbing team in Tokyo 2020, is cautious about setting specific expectations for Paris. “I try not to have expectations. That’s goal number one,” she said in a recent interview. “Right now, I’m just trying to be present in everything I do and focus on what’s in front of me.”

The Boulder, Colorado native comes from a family of accomplished climbers. Her parents were professional rock climbers, and Raboutou began scaling walls at the tender age of two. This early start laid the foundation for a career that has seen her become one of the sport’s most recognizable faces.

Raboutou’s training regimen reflects the demanding nature of competitive climbing. Her typical day involves waking up around 10 a.m., followed by a three to four-hour climbing session with her coach. She supplements this with workouts two to three times a week, emphasizing the importance of rest and recovery.

“I definitely value sleep and try to get 10 hours of sleep a night ideally,” Raboutou explained, highlighting the crucial role of rest in her high-intensity training schedule.

As climbing prepares for its second Olympic appearance, Raboutou expressed excitement about the challenges that await in Paris. “I’m really excited to see what the setters come up with,” she said, referring to the boulder problems and routes that will test the athletes’ skills.

Beyond Paris, Raboutou is enthused about climbing’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “Climbing is growing so much around the world, but especially in the U.S., so I think L.A. 2028 is going to have a really good appearance,” she noted.

Raboutou’s Olympic journey began in Tokyo, where she finished fifth in the combined event. Since then, she has continued excelling on the international circuit, securing multiple World Cup medals and establishing herself as a top contender in bouldering and lead climbing disciplines.

With her blend of an experienced, skilled and measured approach, Raboutou is a strong contender for the U.S. team in Paris. As she continues her Olympic journey, the climbing community watches with anticipation to see if this second-generation climber can ascend to new heights on the sport’s biggest stage.