Q&A with Riccarda Dietsche

Riccarda – why running, and how did you get started? In my small hometown, everyone was part of the local sports club. Both my parents did athletics. Sport was always part of our life. At 10, I had the opportunity to switch to a ‘real’ athletics club. For me, it was just the greatest. First, I did heptathlon.

Around 19, I decided to focus on running. Success came and my sprint and relay career began. I love the speed. There are so many technical things to try, fail, learn, and succeed (more than most people think). It isn’t just about running. It’s a mental game, too.

When you don’t feel like training, what inspires you to get out there? The simple thought to always do one more repetition than the others.

Can you tell us about a moment you’d like to relive? The last Swiss Indoor Championships were very special. For so many years, I fought against me and my head. I worked really hard – for a change – and then there was the 60m final and I ran like never before.

Do you have a special pre-race ritual? I love to have a nice breakfast and a good coffee. And I always stretch half-an-hour before I leave my home or hotel room.

Is nutrition a big focus? What’s your go-to meal after a tough run? I have an eye on it, but not always. My go-to meal is dry fruits, waffles and nuts.

What are your top tips for a speedy recovery after training? Protein shakes, creatine, a foam roller and stretching sessions.

Who is your ‘team’? There are so many people. Most importantly, there’s my family and friends. I wouldn’t be here without them.

I’m also part of NLZ Ostschweiz, which gives my coach Christian Gutgsell the opportunity to join me at every training session. Sometimes I train with retired long jumper Yves Zellweger. Most of the time, a long jumper or sprinter joins our team. There are some young and talented ones who join us occasionally. And there are so many other people, too…

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received? Honestly, I don’t know. You need every puzzle piece to make it.

Apart from running, what are your passions? Music and travel. Another big part of my life are the children I teach. I love doing that.

What’s your favorite On gear? The Cloudnova is super comfortable. It’s great for my time beside the track. And for track sessions, I love the Cloud X. It’s so light.

The Lightweight Pants are perfect when it’s a little bit colder, because they isolate your temperature while still being very light. They’re really comfortable for travelling or chilling. They take up almost no space in my bag and they look great.

Finally, why On? I’m a Swiss girl, so it’s cool to represent a brand from my own country. I love it. The products always look light and smart. I wanted something special, and I found it in On. The shoes are so comfortable. The clothes fit perfectly. And the quality of all the products is high. I’ve met some great people from team On and I’m looking forward to getting to know many more. On is the best sponsor I could wish for. I love being part of the team.