Optimized Athlete
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Digital health, Sports performance consulting |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Founder | Sky Christopherson, Tamara Christopherson, Adam Laurent |
| Headquarters | California , United States |
| Products | Genomics-based performance enhancement, self-monitoring technologies, bioinformatics consulting |
Optimized Athlete is a digital health enterprise headquartered in California, concentrating on performance enhancement consulting. Established in 2011 by athletes Sky Christopherson, Tamara Christopherson, and Adam Laurent, the firm played a significant role in assisting the US women's cycling team to achieve a silver medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics. The company utilizes genomics, self-monitoring technologies, and bioinformatics to boost human athletic capabilities.
Founding
In early 2012, Sky and Tamara Christopherson launched Optimized Athlete with an initial capital of $20,000. The founding group also included an Olympic athlete alongside a Silicon Valley professional. Both Christophersons, graduates of UC San Diego, were motivated by the university’s research environment. Among the company’s advocates is Dr. Eric Topol, who directs the Scripps Translational Science Institute. Sky Christopherson applied Dr. Topol’s digital measurement techniques to establish a World Record in the 35+ 200m velodrome sprint event in 2011.
2012 Olympics
During the 2012 Olympics, Optimized Athlete was one of several health tech providers offering devices aimed at enhancing athlete performance during what was termed by the media as the "Data Olympics." The organization equipped the US women’s sprint cycling squad with glucose monitoring devices, sleep tracking tools, and genetic analyses focusing on nutrition and muscle function.
Sky Christopherson characterized their strategy as a "bootstrapped" performance program designed for a team with limited funding and minimal support personnel. They initiated their process with genetic screening to inform monitoring and intervention plans. This methodology contributed to the team setting a national record prior to London and ultimately earning a silver medal after overcoming top-ranked opponents in the semifinal round.
The company maintains its dedication to harnessing genomics and bioinformatics for advancing athletic achievement.
Tools
Optimized Athlete incorporates surveys through platforms such as InsideTracker, delivering comprehensive online evaluations and dietary guidance based on biomarkers including glucose levels, folate, and vitamin D. A critical instrument employed is the Dexcom continuous blood glucose sensor, which assists in nutritional regulation. According to Sky Christopherson, clients utilize these biometric insights not only to enhance athletic output but also to optimize foundational health—a concept described as "Health Performance."
External links
- Optimized Athlete on Twitter (Official)