Simone Biles‘ experience at the Tokyo Olympics was not easy. The seven-time Olympic champion was forced to withdraw from the competition because of ‘twisties’-a psychological problem that affects gymnasts and prevents them from controlling their bodies while performing aerial maneuvers.
The difficult experience took Biles away from the sport, and the gymnast has spoken extensively about her struggles with mental health.
“I am doing therapy weekly to keep everything in tune so that I feel comfortable and confident enough to be competing,” Biles told ELLE.
“It’s been a crucial part of my training regimen. I understand and realize I have to take care of my physical appearance as well as my mental.”
It is precisely that work that has helped the athlete believe in herself and get back on track to compete at her highest level in Paris.
In fact, she is more motivated than ever after overcoming her difficulties in Tokyo.
“I think because of everything I’ve been through, I want to push the limits. I want to see how far I can go. I want to see what I’m still capable of so that once I step away from the sport, I can be really happy with my career and say, I’ve given it my all and that’s how I currently feel in this position,” Biles said.
Finding the balance
Biles acknowledged that her personal circumstances have helped her grow as a person and put her in a good position to face potential obstacles.
“I have so much going on in my life outside of the gym that sometimes gymnastics feels like my side job. It used to be my main job and then everything else. But now life doesn’t slow down and I can’t put it aside anymore. No matter what happens you have to keep going. That’s the way it is,” she said.
Without a doubt, Biles‘ personal journey has helped her grow professionally. As always, she is a medal contender, and is looking to add to her already extensive collection.
