Plätzer made her international debut in 1985, representing Norway. One of her most memorable achievements was winning a silver medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. This accomplishment remains a highlight of her career.

Training and Coaching

Plätzer trains between 15 and 20 hours per week. Her training regime consists of 80% walking and 20% basic training. Her husband, Stephan Plätzer, has been her coach since 1996. Stephan, originally from Germany, has played a crucial role in her career.

Personal Life

Plätzer resides in Os, Norway, with her husband Stephan and their children Kiara Lea and Sebastian. She is multilingual, fluent in Norwegian, English, Spanish, and German. Outside of sports, she enjoys reading and cooking.

Influences and Inspirations

Her husband Stephan is the most influential person in her career. She also looks up to Norwegian marathon runner Grete Waitz and Polish race walker Robert Korzeniowski as her idols.

Challenges and Injuries

Plätzer faced significant challenges due to injuries. She underwent three operations on her Achilles tendon, which kept her out of competition for three years between 1989 and 1991. Despite these setbacks, she continued to excel in her sport.

Awards and Honours

In recognition of her contributions to race walking, Plätzer received an honours medal from the Norwegian Walking Association in 2006. Her sporting philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Just go for it!"

Family Legacy

The athletic prowess runs in the family. Her husband Stephan was an international standard runner in the 800m and 1500m events. Her father, Kjell Tysse, was a European masters champion in race walking. Her brother Erik Tysse also competes as a race walker.

Other Sporting Interests

Besides race walking, Plätzer competed in handball from 1988 to 1994. This diverse sporting background has contributed to her overall athletic development.

Kjersti Plätzer's journey in sports is marked by dedication and resilience. Her achievements continue to inspire many in the world of athletics.