Before appearing on the dance floor of “Dancing with the Stars” this season, Laure Manaudou made a name for herself in a completely different setting – the competition pools. Rising to the top at a very young age, she established herself as one of the great figures in French swimming. However, with hindsight, the former champion now looks at that period of her life in a very different way. In an interview with “La Tribune dimanche” on April 5, 2026, she talks about her relationship with time and performance: “Between 20 and 30 years old, I feel like I didn’t realize that time was passing. My favorite moment is now. Because I feel good, I’m making projects that I enjoy. I do them for my well-being. Before, I swam to win, that didn’t necessarily make me happy. Now, the challenges that I take on, it’s for me.”
After swimming, mental health at the heart of Laure Manaudou’s life
A marked evolution, which also translates into a step back from pure competition. Now turned towards other challenges, like preparing for her first marathon, she explains that she no longer wants to compare herself to her past performances: “I don’t swim anymore, so I don’t have a reference point. I think that if I get into a pool and swim 30 seconds slower than before, it will demoralize me.” Interviewed on April 23rd by Gala, Laure Manaudou opened up about another string she wanted to add to her bow. “Regarding your professional life, you trained as a kinesiologist, engaging with energies. Why?”, they asked her.
And the answer was quick to come! “I am passionate about mental health, psychology, to understand what leads us to choose certain life paths. I met a kinesiologist in a women’s circle when I was pregnant,” she first explained. Kinesiology is a holistic method aimed at restoring balance between the body, emotions, and mind. She continued, “I had a session with her and decided to pursue the training for two years. It allowed me to understand many things about myself.” For example? “I have never been so aligned. I know what I want, but more importantly, what I no longer want. Those around me know me, know what I have been through, and what I desire,” explained Florent Manaudou’s sister. And to conclude: “I am very grateful to have a support system that pays attention to my mental health. They make sure there are no overflows. They ensure that I am respected.”
Laure Manaudou facing post-pregnancy
The athlete also shared her thoughts on her body after her pregnancies. What was the most difficult for her? “The hardest part is regaining your body, having confidence in it. We tend to believe that we will easily recover our figure. I have never been self-conscious about my body,” she emphasized. During her first pregnancy, Laure Manaudou had “gained 23 kilos” and had high hopes for the post-pregnancy period. “At the time, I was doing sports and thought that in two months, it would be fine. But not at all. (Laughs) It took me a year and a half, with weight training, workouts… I am like everyone else, I gain weight, lose it, regain it… You have to give yourself time,” she concluded. Couldn’t have said it better!
