The Sunski Collective: Emily Kraus

Who is Emily? Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a high energy work-play warrior chasing adventures, seeking new challenges with a newfound appreciation for the “bask more, stress less” Sunski philosophy. I grew up in a small town in Nebraska and found my way to California to complete my medical residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) and fellowship training in sports medicine. I now practice sports medicine and lead a female athlete research program at Stanford (more on that later)! 

What are some of your favorite things about growing up in a small town in Nebraska?

Everyone greets you like you’re an old friend. I try to carry that friendliness with me wherever I go, whether on a running/riding trail, in a coffee shop, or through a crowded street. I think it elevates the mood of the giver and receiver! 

I also love the open country roads surrounding my hometown. So simple and beautiful. 

What's your day job?

I’m a sports medicine physician and researcher (or “clinician scientist” if we’re getting fancy) at Stanford University. On the days I’m in clinic, I treat athletes who present with overuse injuries, concussions, broken bones, overtraining/fueling issues, and acute injuries. When I’m not in the clinic, I’m directing a new female athlete research program called FASTR Program, which stands for Female Athlete Science and Translational Research.  

What is FASTR and why is it RAD?

The FASTR program seeks to help close the gender gap in sports science research with an emphasis on early identification and interventions to prevent injury and identify ways to optimize performance in female athletes. We’re supported by the Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, a collaborative research initiative that seeks to improve the health and well-being of all people through the study of peak human performance. 

It’s RAD because currently a lot of the training recommendations for female athletes is based on studies on male athletes. Female athletes have made up a small percentage or have been completely lacking from sports science and sports medicine research. FASTR, along with a few other stellar collaborating female athlete programs, aims to change that! 

What words of encouragement do you have for someone who is looking to progress as an athlete?

So many! 

First of all, if you make an effort to move intentionally, you’re an athlete! Don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone and try out a new sport. 

Setbacks will inevitably happen and are part of the journey and growth as an athlete. Avoid the temptation to throw in the towel and rather refocus your energy on other controllables. The intentional pivot in training can make all the difference! 

Train for the long game. How can you stay moving well for the next 50+ years? What you’re doing to your body now may affect your longevity in sport (and LIFE)! Treat it right. 

What are your favorite outdoor activities?

It depends on the day! And the season. And which friends are in town. :) At this stage in my life, I plan my outdoor activities around socialization opportunities with good friends. I love to run and ride my bike, preferably on trails or gravel roads but will hit the road if necessary. 

What is a big huge goal you are working on to achieve for 2022?

As FASTR projects and outdoor adventures pick up speed, I’m challenging myself to celebrate the slow more often. Another goal of mine is to get into surfing, ideally in warm water. Sunski ambassador offsite?? 

Favorite pair of Sunskis and why?

The Astra in Tortoise Amber hands down! I’ve always enjoyed expressing my style through sunglasses and the Astra is stylish, comfortable, flattering, and functional. 

What does Live Life Outside mean to you? 

When I was sick recently, I was pretty bummed because I wasn’t able to experience the outdoors as I usually had – with a scenic trail run or epic bike ride adventure. Then my partner (Chris) threw out the idea of taking the top off my Jeep and driving along the coast. It was a whole new experience for me and I had a BLAST. The beauty of living life outside is it can meet you wherever you are. And that’s a beautiful thing.

Meet the Author

Jordyn is Sunksi’s Marketing Coordinator. Embracing a nomadic work lifestyle, she now resides in Truckee, CA where you can find her exploring scenic hiking trails or embracing serenity through yoga. At Sunski, Jordyn's commitment to sustainability shines through her work on content and environmental nonprofit partnerships, making a positive impact on the world she loves to explore.