Scottish freestyle skier Kirsty Muir credits a freediving challenge in a Cornwall quarry with sharpening her mental focus ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The 21-year-old, a three-time World Cup gold medallist, held her breath for three minutes underwater, learning to relax under pressure. This unconventional training, devised by coach Joe Tyler, aims to translate calm into competition runs.

Returning from a year-long knee injury and shoulder surgery, Muir has rebuilt her form with podium finishes in Zhangjiakou and Aspen. The 2022 Beijing Olympian, once Team GB's youngest member, now aims for her first Olympic medal. Her freediving experience taught her that performing better requires a relaxed state, not over-amping before a run.

Muir plans to centre herself with deep breaths and visualisation at the Livigno Snow Park. The technique has already helped her focus more effectively. While she acknowledges medal thoughts, she insists on blocking them to avoid overthinking. Her journey from rehab back to top form shows her resilience and growing maturity.