“Survivor’”s Dee Valladares Shares How She Trained for “Survivor 50 ”with Only 2 Months to Prep (Exclusive)

Dee Valladares, the winner of the 45th season of ‘Survivor’, recently shared insights into her preparations for the show’s highly anticipated 50th season. With two months devoted to intense training, Valladares, 29, focused on running and CrossFit, while acknowledging a shortfall in swimming practice — a crucial skill for survival on the show. Her candid reflections were revealed during a training session for ‘Survivor’ cast members led by UFC athletes and trainers on March 7.

In an exclusive interview, Valladares described her approach to training and how it differed this time around. “I had two months of training once I learned I would be participating again,” she explained. “I really ramped up my running and CrossFit workouts, but honestly, I should have done more swimming.”

Returning as a previous winner of the show, Valladares faced a unique set of challenges as she prepared to compete again. She noted that entering the competition with the weight of having already claimed victory brought about a distinct mental framework. “I felt a bit of pressure thinking, ‘I won my first season. Can I achieve that level of success again?'” she admitted.

Reflecting on her initial experience in ‘Survivor’, she indicated that her mindset had shifted significantly. “The first time I went in with everything to prove, knowing that winning was my only option. This time, I reassured myself that I didn’t need to prove anything; I just needed to enjoy the experience while giving it my all.” Valladares emphasised how crucial it was for her to approach the game with an open mind, especially among a cast that included several former champions.

During her preparations, Valladares revealed a key piece of advice from host Jeff Probst, who emphasised the importance of commitment to the game: “He wants everyone selected to give it everything they’ve got.” This resonated with Valladares, who felt she adhered to this philosophy throughout her challenges. “I kept reminding myself, ‘The discomfort will pass,’ during the tough moments,” she stated. This mental resilience enabled her to appreciate the unique experiences that ‘Survivor’ offers, regardless of their inherently challenging nature.

As the season unfolds, Valladares predicted that viewers could anticipate heightened drama and conflicts. “Everyone is pouring their heart into this, and as a former castaway, I find myself rooting for the excitement,” she explained. She expressed a desire to witness emotional moments ranging from joy to confrontation, noting the investment players have in not only the monetary rewards but also the esteemed title of Soul Survivor.

On March 7, Valladares was in Las Vegas attending a private training session for cast members ahead of UFC 326, where she had an opportunity to meet UFC fighter Sean O’Malley. “I was thrilled to meet him, especially knowing he’s a big fan of ‘Survivor’,” she remarked. Her admiration extended to O’Malley’s calm demeanor, which contrasted with what one might expect from a high-profile fighter.

Although she considers herself a CrossFit athlete, Valladares acknowledged the rigorous training and endurance required of UFC competitors. She noted that sparring with O’Malley left her fatigued, underscoring her respect for the sport. “I grew up doing judo and watching UFC with my dad, so witnessing those fighters in their element was truly inspiring,” she reflected.

As excitement builds for the current season of ‘Survivor’, Valladares’ experiences shed light on the dedication and mental fortitude involved in preparing for such a demanding competition. The show airs on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, and Valladares’ journey is sure to provide a compelling narrative alongside the intense action anticipated in this landmark season.