Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles debunks common misconceptions about gymnasts, addressing areas such as sport, lifestyle, and physique. She shares her personal experiences, revealing that gymnastics is indeed a sport, requiring intense training (32-34 hours a week) and a combination of physical and mental abilities. Biles also discusses her own life, including her relationships, interests, and mental health, showing that gymnasts are not one-dimensional athletes. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, socialization, and seeking help when needed. Biles also talks about body image issues, stating that it's a common struggle for everyone, not just gymnasts. She concludes by highlighting the diversity of body types in gymnastics, dispelling the myth that gymnasts must be skinny and petite.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Simone Biles is an Olympic gold medalist.
2. Simone Biles trains 32-34 hours a week to compete for 3-4 minutes.
3. Gymnasts can participate in NCAA competitions after high school.
4. Simone Biles started gymnastics at the age of 6, which is considered late.
5. Simone Biles' sister also did gymnastics, but quit at 17 due to pressure.
6. Simone Biles designs her own uniforms with GK Ali.
7. Simone Biles met her boyfriend before he knew who she was.
8. Simone Biles attended public school until 8th grade.
9. Simone Biles goes to therapy and thinks it should be talked about more.
10. Simone Biles is 4'8" tall.
11. The perception of body type for gymnasts has evolved over time.
12. Simone Biles is not naturally flexible, but is flexible enough to do gymnastics.