Strictly Come Dancing star Tom Dean has described training for the BBC One show as 'intense', but says there is one thing that helps him physically and mentally. The Olympic gold-medallist is currently taking part in the latest series, taking to the dancefloor each weekend with professional dance partner Nadiya Bychkova. Tom is one of 15 celebrities who have been competing on the dancefloor, with the show lasting 13 weeks.
Earlier this week, Tom took time out of his busy training schedule to make a surprise visit to Sir William Ramsay School in Buckinghamshire. During the visit, Tom shared his inspiring journey from aspiring swimmer to Olympic champion. He also discussed the one thing that has helped him with Strictly's 'intense' dance training.
Highlighting how critical role sleep and rest has been for him, he said: "As an athlete, I very quickly learned that sleep is just as important as training and nutrition when it comes to performing at your best. Competing on Strictly this year and undergoing intense dance training has also reinforced how crucial rest is, not just for physical recovery but for mental focus as well." Commenting on his surprise school visit, the BBC star added: "It was fantastic to share this message with the students and encourage them to take sleep seriously as a key factor in reaching their own dreams and goals, whether in sports or everyday life.
” While speaking to the pupils, Tom encouraged students to create their own ‘Dreams Sleep Pledge’ de.
