Five minutes with Stephanie Scheirlynck
This week, we were lucky enough to have a quick chat with Stephanie Scheirlynck
Meet Stephanie, a certified dietitian and nutritionist with a deep passion for sports nutrition. Stephanie has worked with a diverse array of professional athletes, including Olympic gold medalists Greg Van Avermaet and Nafi Thiam, as well as Team Belgium, RSC Anderlecht, and the Lidl-Trek UCI World Tour cycling teams. Her expertise has made her a trusted name in the field.
Beyond her work with athletes, Stephanie is also the author of a series of sports cookbooks and the creator of performance-focused granola. On top of all that, she's also a dedicated mom to two beautiful children.
Tell us about about your journey
"I've always had a passion for sports and nutrition. Growing up, athletics played a significant role in my life, and it was through this shared interest that I met my husband, a physical education teacher. Together, we’ve built a life centered around health, fitness, and our two wonderful children, aged 11 and 9.
In 2006, I graduated as a dietitian, driven by a desire to help others achieve their best through nutrition. My interest in sports nutrition grew, leading me to further specialize in this field. By 2009, I found myself working in professional cycling, a challenging yet incredibly rewarding environment. Over the years, I've had the privilege of working closely with top athletes, guiding them to optimize their performance through tailored nutrition strategies.
Currently, I work with Lidl-Trek and also hold a coordinating role with Team Belgium, where I support several Olympic athletes individually."
Describe yourself in three words.
What gives you energy?
My family is my greatest source of joy. Spending time with them, doing fun activities together, and simply being with my loved ones rejuvenates me. Sport is another major source of energy for me. Even on days when I feel tired, engaging in physical activity revitalizes me. Surrounding myself with positive people who share a love for life also keeps my spirits high. Also my work, working in elite sports is incredibly rewarding. Athletes are highly motivated and appreciative of the guidance they receive, making my job not just challenging but also very satisfying.
What’s your personal mantra?
“Everything always works out in the end. Sometimes, things happen that seem less than ideal, but I’ve learned to trust my instincts. Often, what initially seems like a setback turns out to be the right path after all. Everything happens for a reason."
What does “sustainable sportswear” mean to you?
"As someone deeply involved in sports, sustainable sportswear is important to me. I value quality and durability in the clothing I wear, especially since sportswear often needs frequent washing. I’m willing to invest in items that are not only well-made but also ethically produced. It’s reassuring to know that the materials used are durable and that the people behind these products are fairly compensated for their work.
When it comes to my favorite sportswear, I appreciate brands that prioritize both quality and sustainability. I find versatility in my wardrobe to be key"
Why RectoVerso
"When it comes to sportswear, I value brands that prioritize both quality and sustainability. Versatility is also essential in my wardrobe—I love pieces that transition easily, like a comfortable T-shirt that pairs well with jeans or a stylish kimono that adds a touch of elegance to casual outfits. My job allows me to dress casually, so sneakers and jeans are my go-to, fitting seamlessly into my everyday life.
That's why Recto Verso is a perfect match for me. Their commitment to quality and sustainability aligns with my values, and as a local brand based in Deinze, where I live, supporting them feels like supporting my community."
Your favourite RectoVerso item?
"I love the signature Jacquard t-shirt because you can wear it in so many ways. It's the perfect running tee in hot weather, as well as a nice work t-shirt when combined with a pair of jeans. Combine it with their gorgeous Kimono and you're good to go."
