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Discus legend
Lars Riedel

Pain-free thanks to Joya

Die Sohle, die nie müde wird.

Olympic champion chooses Joya

Lars Riedel is one of the most successful discus throwers of all time. The 1996 Olympic champion and five-time world champion made his mark on international athletics over many years. However, more than 20 years of elite-level sport also took their toll: he struggled with problems in the lumbar spine (L4 and L5), issues with the sacroiliac and facet joints, as well as hip and knee pain.

Joya shoes help him stay active even in his sporting retirement: “As a former professional athlete, I know that all pain originates in the feet. Thanks to Joya, my sacroiliac joint and hip pain has decreased significantly.”

Find out more in the video

Lars Riedel’s favorite shoe

About Lars Riedel

Lars Riedel, born on June 28, 1967, in Zwickau, is a former German track and field athlete, Olympic champion, and five-time world champion in the discus throw. At 1.99 metres tall, this exceptional athlete made his mark on international athletics over many years.

His greatest achievements include winning Olympic gold in Atlanta in 1996, five world championship titles, and the 1998 European Championship. With a personal best of 71.50 metres, he remains one of the best discus throwers of all time.

Today, Lars Riedel works as a motivational speaker, health ambassador, and coach. In his talks, the former Olympic champion discusses success, mental strength, motivation, and how to deal with challenges.

“As a former professional athlete, I know that all pain originates in the feet. Thanks to Joya, my sacroiliac joint and hip pain has decreased significantly.”

Lars Riedel, Olympic champion and five-time world champion in the discus throw
Portrait of Lars Riedel

Frequently asked questions about Lars Riedel and Joya

Who is Lars Riedel?

Lars Riedel is a former German discus thrower, 1996 Olympic champion, and five-time world champion. Born in Zwickau, he is one of the most successful discus throwers in the history of athletics.

What has Lars Riedel achieved in sport?

Lars Riedel is a former German discus thrower, 1996 Olympic champion, and five-time world champion. Born in Zwickau, he is one of the most successful discus throwers in the history of athletics.

What physical ailments did Lars Riedel suffer from?

After more than 20 years of elite-level sport, Lars Riedel suffered from back problems, issues in the lumbar spine, and hip and knee pain.

How have Joya shoes helped Lars Riedel?

Joya shoes help Lars Riedel reduce stress on his back, hips, and knees while walking. The soft, elastic sole provides greater comfort and a pleasant walking experience.

Why does Joya’s philosophy suit Lars Riedel?

Lars emphasizes that athletes know most pain originates in the feet. As a former professional athlete, he is very mindful of this. This is where Joya shoes with FOREVERFOAM® technology come in. Their soft, elastic soles activate smaller support and stabilizing muscles, relieving stress on the joints and spine. The result: they encourage natural movement and help pain subside. This has also significantly reduced Riedel’s sacroiliac joint and hip pain.

The sole that never gets tired

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