I am a gymnast. I always have been and will be at heart.
There’s something to say about the people who become gymnasts. Whether its our muscle build, intense training, or dedication to the sport, we are truly a unique group of individuals.
Fifteen years ago, I embarked on a life-shaping journey as I started my gymnastics career. I’ve been to several different clubs and had several different coaches and teammates who have taught me much more than how to do a flip-flop layout on beam or a release on bars, but also about being a good teammate and friend, time management, dedication, and hard work. Through my training, I’ve also learned about the importance of eating well and maintaining a healthy body and mind. Although these lessons directly correlate to my experiences in gymnastics, they also carry over to many different aspects of my life. It is impossible for me to separate them from the person that I am and continue to be.
Its hard to imagine that I’ve been in gymnastics for as long as I have. I can still remember my first competition and the satisfaction of having the opportunity to show everything I’d been working hard for. Now I am left with three short years to finish up my gymnastics career. I’m already getting anxious of having to lose such an enormous chunk of my life.
If I must end my gymnastics career, I am at least able to have the gratification of knowing I will take with me everything I have learned. Along with personal development and lifelong friends, my appreciation for the hard work these athletes put themselves through and love for the sport will always remain. And so, it is safe to say, I will never completely lose touch with being a gymnast.
I feel like growing up and having a passion for something is really important. I can relate to this because all of my life I had grown up playing softball. I like when she states that she “will take with me everything I have learned.” I believe that I have taken everything with me that I have learned when my softball career ended. It lead me be physically and mentally prepared to take up rowing. I think that without softball I wouldn’t have been able to keep up with the standards of competing at a higher level. The experiences and memories are unforgettable and I have no regrets. I feel like I also would “never lose touch” with softball.
ReplyDeleteMelissa Tobia
I am really not a sport kind of person. I hate all the PE classes ever since I was in elementary school. I have always admired people who could run fast or be good at some sports. I don not know much about gymnastics, but it seems to be fun and require some hard work. It is impossible for me to do all that kinds of difficult movement on a thin bar. It is really amazing of you that can do all that. As you said in the blog, you will never lose touch with gymnastics. Even If you do not choose to be a gymnast, I think it still is the life memory that a person can never forget.
ReplyDeleteLu
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ReplyDeleteI am also a gymnast, and can truly relate to the dedication, and years of training that it takes to become competitive in this sport. I definitely agree that gymnastics is not only about the tricks. It's about the life skills such as work ethic, commitment, and motivation learned throughout the process. I especially related to your view that being a gymnast will remain a large part of the person that you are long after your time in the sport is through. Gymnastics is something that doesn't just go away when you stop flipping on the floor, or swinging on the bars. It is a deeply ingrained component of the life you've lived for so many years, and that kind of commitment stays with you forever. You had wonderful insight throughout your blog. Your points were well connected and supported with personal examples.
ReplyDeleteErika
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ReplyDeleteYes, you gymnasts are really “unique group of individuals”. I really enjoy working with you guys this year. ☺
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that gymnastic (or any other sports) not just a sport; many times it shapes our character and many other aspects about life. I like how you specific list out how gymnastic has helped you to become a better teammate, and friend, also many other benefits. I can relate to your example since I used to play tennis in high schoolIt has benefited me in various different ways. But It was really hard to get used to my “new” life when I got injured. It is a very well written blog, and the examples are personal and relatable. The flow, and the organization are very clear. Also you share about your personal feelings when you successfully perform a routine. it really connects the reader since many people share the joy of success after hard work.
-mark yeh