In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, host Winston is joined by Tejal Patel, the Pathway Support Lead at British Gymnastics, who holds a PhD in training load, injury, growth, and maturation in gymnastics. Tejal shares insights into her role, emphasizing the importance of developing gymnasts not just as athletes but as well-rounded individuals. The conversation delves into the performance pathway in gymnastics, the significance of a holistic approach to athlete development, and the challenges faced by young gymnasts, particularly during transitions from junior to senior levels. Tejal discusses the importance of education, communication, and support systems in helping gymnasts navigate their journeys, while also addressing the pressures they face. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the intersection of sports science and personal growth in the world of gymnastics.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Holistic Development : The pathway support at British Gymnastics emphasizes the importance of developing gymnasts not just as athletes but as well-rounded individuals. This includes focusing on mental health, personal growth, and life skills alongside athletic training.
2. Understanding Growth and Maturation : Knowledge of growth spurts and maturation is crucial in gymnastics, as it helps predict periods of increased injury risk. Educating gymnasts and coaches about these phases can aid in managing expectations and preventing injuries.
3. Empowerment Through Education : The pathway support provides gymnasts with tools and knowledge to take accountability for their training and recovery. This includes practical sessions on nutrition, recovery practices, and self-management skills.
4. Communication and Feedback : Open lines of communication between gymnasts, coaches, and support staff are essential. Regular feedback helps tailor the support provided and ensures that the needs of the athletes are being met effectively.
5. Individual Journeys : Each gymnast's path is unique, and success is defined by personal improvement rather than comparison to others. The focus should be on setting individual goals and recognizing that progress may not always be linear.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "It's just so important that you've got different elements in your life, like gymnastics is a part of your identity." - Tejal Patel
2. "We can actually sort of predict roughly when you're going to go through your growth spurt, and it's really important because during this time you're at an increased risk of injury." - Tejal Patel
3. "It's about developing. You don't have to be perfect, you don't have to be the best. Play the long game." - Tejal Patel
4. "I think the sport maybe attracts a lot of perfectionists, and that's not a bad thing. But that comes with extra pressure." - Tejal Patel
5. "Sometimes a bad day can just happen. Some days are just not right." - Winston Pal

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/ https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you byDisruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/ https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics Podcast, host Winston engages in a lively Q&A session, answering a variety of questions submitted by listeners via Instagram. He shares insights into his personal experiences with injuries in gymnastics, discussing the frequency and recovery times associated with various injuries. Winston also reveals his favorite skills, the fun aspects of gymnastics, and the impact of joint strain over time. He reflects on his journey in the sport, from starting gymnastics at a young age to his current goals, including upcoming competitions and aspirations for the Commonwealth Games. The episode delves into philosophical questions about the nature of gymnastics, the balance between flexibility and strength, and the importance of mistakes in the pursuit of perfection. Listeners are encouraged to engage further by leaving comments and suggestions for future episodes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Injury Frequency and Recovery : Injuries are common in gymnastics, and recovery times can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. While some injuries may only require a few weeks of recovery, others can take months or even years, highlighting the importance of proper care and consultation with professionals.
2. Passion for the Sport : Enjoyment and passion for gymnastics are crucial. While there may be stressful days, the overall experience should be fun and fulfilling, as gymnastics is pursued primarily for love of the sport rather than financial gain.
3. Importance of Flexibility vs. Strength : In gymnastics, both flexibility and strength are important, but their significance can vary by discipline. For men's gymnastics, strength may be prioritized, while flexibility is more critical in women's gymnastics due to the nature of their routines.
4. Training and Competition Goals : Setting clear goals for competitions is essential. The focus for the upcoming year includes participating in British teams, the London Open, and potentially qualifying for international competitions, emphasizing the importance of consistent training and performance.
5. National Training Camps : National training camps are intensive, multi-day events that include both training sessions and educational components, such as psychology and nutrition. Participation in these camps is often determined by performance in domestic competitions, which serve as a pathway to national team selection.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I've had both shoulders, back, basically the entirety of my arm... there's quite a lot of injuries."
2. "If you're not finding it fun, why are you actually doing it in the first place?"
3. "Mistakes are the way you move forwards. Mistakes are the thing that drives progress."
4. "If form is everything, where does freedom go? It's an interesting question because it makes sense."
5. "In terms of the domestic competitions, I want to be one enough in the British teams and London Open to qualify for the World Cup in Paris."

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, Winston interviews Frank Baines, a former international gymnast who represented Great Britain and Scotland for over 15 years. Frank shares his journey from a late starter in gymnastics to becoming the junior European champion in 2012 and competing at the Commonwealth Games three times. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a significant spinal injury that nearly ended his career, and how he used those experiences to grow both as an athlete and a physiotherapist. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of competing at a high level, the importance of mental health in sports, and the lessons learned from his successes and setbacks. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the world of gymnastics and the resilience required to overcome obstacles in pursuit of excellence.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Late Start in Gymnastics : Frank began gymnastics just before his ninth birthday, initially learning skills on a trampoline before transitioning to formal training. His late start did not hinder his progress, as he quickly advanced to the GB squad due to his motivation and ability to learn.
2. Importance of Coaching : A significant influence on Frank's early career was his coach, Arthur Masters, who instilled discipline and focus in his training. The support and enthusiasm of coaches like Sergei also played a crucial role in his development as a gymnast.
3. Resilience Through Injuries : Frank experienced serious injuries, including a compression fracture of the spine and a torn tendon in his wrist. These injuries taught him the importance of physical and psychological resilience, as well as the need for proper pain management and recovery strategies.
4. Mental Health Awareness : The discussion highlights the often-overlooked psychological aspects of being an athlete. Frank emphasizes the need for athletes to be educated about the mental health implications of injuries and the importance of viewing themselves as more than just their sport.
5. Value of Experience in Competition : Competing in multiple high-stakes events, such as the Commonwealth Games and World Championships, provided Frank with invaluable experience. He learned to manage competition pressure and the significance of preparation, nutrition, and recovery in achieving performance goals.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I was quite a late starter... but we had a trampoline in our garden and one of my friends taught me how to do a somersault on it." - Frank Baines
2. "I think it was always a pretty serious kid in terms of the actual training and stuff." - Frank Baines
3. "I had compression fracture to T1 to T4... I was very concerned that I might not be able to walk again." - Frank Baines
4. "I think it's important to remind athletes that they're not just an athlete, they're more than that." - Frank Baines
5. "I was just super proud of them... it was really great to see my teammate James Hall get that opportunity to go to the World Championships." - Frank Baines

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Get 10% off Rip Prevention and Protection with my code "Powell" - https://wodndone.com/?apply_coupon=powell

In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, host Winston Powell sits down with Scott Hann, a seasoned personal coach with 25 years of experience in gymnastics. Scott has coached notable gymnasts like Max Whitlock and Bryn Bevan and serves as the director of South Essex Gymnastics Club. The conversation delves into Scott's journey as a coach, the challenges he faced, and the evolution of his coaching philosophy, emphasising the importance of communication, trust, and understanding each gymnast's individual journey. Scott shares valuable insights on how to motivate athletes, the significance of mental resilience, and the necessity of adapting coaching styles to meet the needs of each gymnast. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for coaches and gymnasts alike, highlighting the art of coaching and the power of building strong relationships in the sport.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Coaching Philosophy : Effective coaching goes beyond technical knowledge; it involves understanding the individual needs of each gymnast. Building a strong relationship based on trust and communication is essential for success.
2. Learning from Experience : Mistakes are valuable learning opportunities. Reflecting on past experiences, both successes and failures, helps coaches and gymnasts grow and improve their performance.
3. Focus on Control : Athletes should concentrate on what they can control—such as their training and mindset—rather than external pressures or outcomes. This approach helps reduce anxiety and enhances performance.
4. Motivation and Morale : Keeping training engaging and fun is crucial for maintaining motivation. Incorporating games and varied activities can help gymnasts stay enthusiastic, especially during challenging periods.
5. Individual Journeys : Every gymnast has a unique path, and it's important for coaches to recognize and support each athlete's personal journey. This includes understanding their mental and physical attributes and adapting coaching methods accordingly.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "One of the things I really wanted to do was give people the opportunity that I never had, which is why I got into coaching." - Scott Hann
2. "The more that you can bring them on the journey and the more that I can work with the person as well as the athlete, the more you're going to get out of it for both of you." - Scott Hann
3. "You can't change or control another human, especially another adult. People are going to have their beliefs, and those beliefs are going to be deep-rooted from their experiences in their life." - Scott Hann
4. "If you're focused on a result, if you're focused on an opportunity, if you're focused on the outcome, it's going to cause you pressure and you're not going to focus on the process." - Scott Hann
5. "The more complicated you make things, the more stress and anxiety you create around something." - Winston Powell

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you byDisruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Watch the episode on YouTube here - https://youtu.be/ud8GW87FtQk

In this episode of The Game of Gymnastics Podcast, host Winston Powell shares an in-depth analysis of his routines from the recent British Championships. He discusses his experiences on various apparatus, including pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars, and horizontal bar, providing insights into his performance, challenges faced, and areas for improvement. Winston reflects on his nerves, injuries, and the importance of muscle memory, while also emphasizing the need for consistency and preparation in competition. He invites listeners to check out his YouTube channel for visual references and encourages feedback for future episodes, making it a personal and engaging exploration of his gymnastics journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Personal Experience in Competition : The episode focuses on the host's personal experiences and routines during the British Championships, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges faced during competition.
2. Routine Analysis : Each routine is analyzed in detail, discussing specific skills, difficulties, and areas for improvement, such as balance issues on the pommel horse and landing techniques on the vault.
3. Injury Impact : The host shares insights about dealing with injuries, specifically a muscle strain in the oblique, which affected performance and preparation leading up to the competition.
4. Performance Reflection : There is a strong emphasis on self-reflection, with the host acknowledging both successes and shortcomings in routines, and the importance of pushing for improvement in future competitions.
5. Community Engagement : The host encourages listener interaction by inviting feedback on the episode and suggestions for future content, fostering a sense of community among gymnastics enthusiasts.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "First routine is always the hardest. I'll be honest. First time competing in this arena for two years." - Winston
2. "I was just trying to get through a routine and I did. So for what it was, relatively happy with that one." - Winston
3. "I can blame a thousand different things, but realistically at the end of the day, it wasn't a good enough routine." - Winston
4. "It's just a matter of doing both at the same time. I know I can do a really nice PBR routine." - Winston
5. "You can aspire to be perfect, but you'll never really get there. It's an unattainable goal, but it's still good to try." - Winston

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Gamer Gymnastics Podcast, host Winston sits down with Dan Keatings, a former GB gymnast and Olympian who competed in the 2008 Beijing Games. Dan shares highlights from his impressive career, including his journey through injuries, his silver medal at the 2009 World Championships, and his gold medal win at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. The conversation delves into Dan's early beginnings in gymnastics, the intense preparations leading up to major competitions, and the evolution of the sport over the years. He also discusses the challenges of transitioning out of competitive gymnastics, his experiences with injuries, and how he has found a new passion in CrossFit. Listeners will gain insights into the mindset required for success in gymnastics and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Career Highlights : Key moments in a gymnastics career often include competing in the Olympics, winning world and Commonwealth medals, and overcoming injuries. These experiences shape an athlete's journey and contribute to their legacy in the sport.
2. Injury Management : Injuries are a significant challenge in gymnastics, and managing them requires mental resilience. Athletes must stay positive and focused on rehabilitation, understanding that setbacks are temporary and part of a longer career.
3. Training and Competition : Consistent competition experience is crucial for developing performance under pressure. Competing regularly helps athletes build confidence and improve their skills, making them more prepared for major events.
4. Transitioning After Retirement : Life after gymnastics can be challenging, as athletes often miss the sport and the competitive environment. Finding new ways to stay involved, whether through coaching or other means, is important for maintaining a connection to the sport.
5. Mental and Physical Balance : Achieving a balance between mental readiness and physical capability is essential. Athletes must be aware of their bodies and avoid pushing themselves too hard after injuries, ensuring they build back strength gradually to prevent further issues.

BEST MOMENTS

1. Dan Keatings: "Olympics, obviously, like I just said, it's because it's the pinnacle. It was amazing. Obviously, I didn't get a medal there, but it was still an Olympic Games. It's a dream, really."
2. Dan Keatings: "I was a really good junior. I was doing things really early. I remember, I think I won the under 14 British when I was 12."
3. Dan Keatings: "I think there's a lot more difficulty in routines. Some of the routines now are crazy... it also keeps your longevity within the sport."
4. Winston: "Did you say that the excitement and the build-up overrode that?"
5. Dan Keatings: "It's hard to keep people in the sport like that. But luckily, I was one of the ones that managed to stick through it."

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk

Get 10% off Rip Prevention and Protection with my code "Powell" - https://wodndone.com/?apply_coupon=powell

Join us in this exciting episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast as we sit down with Lee Woolls, the newly appointed national coach for men's artistic gymnastics at British Gymnastics. With 29 years of coaching experience and 17 years as the head coach of Birmingham Gymnastics Club, Lee shares his insights on what makes a great coach and gymnast, the emotional journey of gymnastics, and the importance of collaboration within the sport.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Lee's journey from gymnast to coach and his decision to go all in on coaching.
• The multifaceted role of a coach and what qualities make a good one.
• The emotional highs and lows of gymnastics and how to navigate them.
• Lee's transition to a national coach and his vision for the future of British gymnastics.
• The strengths and challenges of diversity in gymnastics and how it shapes coaching strategies.

Whether you're a gymnast, coach, or simply a fan of the sport, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment!

Follow Winston for more gymnastics content:

• Instagram: @wpal05
• TikTok: @winstonpal5

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction
00:40 - Lee's coaching journey
02:34 - What makes a good coach?
05:41 - The emotional journey of gymnasts
07:08 - Lee's new role as national coach
10:44 - Trusting personal coaches
14:58 - Goals for British Gymnastics
17:06 - Attributes of a good gymnast
19:31 - The impact of diversity in gymnastics
26:08 - Strengths of British Gymnastics
29:23 - Mentors and learning experiences
37:39 - Proud moments in coaching
40:32 - Fond memories at Birmingham Gymnastics Club
42:16 - Recommended guests for the podcast

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

LINK

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05

In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, host Winston Powell talks to Trigg Dudley, a Division 1 gymnast from the University of California, Berkeley, shares his journey from England to the U.S. and his transition to senior gymnastics. Trigg discusses the differences between training and competition environments in England and the States, highlighting the unique pressures of team competitions in the NCAA. He reflects on his experiences with routine preparation, the impact of competition frequency on performance, and the importance of focusing on strengths while managing weaknesses. The conversation also touches on the cultural aspects of gymnastics, the role of technology in the sport, and Trigg's aspirations for both gymnastics and his academic future in computer science. Tune in for insights into the life of a collegiate gymnast and the evolving landscape of gymnastics training and competition.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Transitioning to Team Competition : The experience of competing in the NCAA introduces a new level of pressure as gymnasts train and compete for their teams, contrasting with the more individual-focused training in British gymnastics.
2. Importance of Consistency : Consistency in routines is crucial for success in competitions. While some areas of gymnastics may improve, others may decline, emphasizing the need to focus on strengths while managing weaknesses.
3. Training Environment Differences : The training structure in the NCAA is more regimented, with a cap on training hours and a focus on routine preparation, which differs from the more flexible and longer training sessions often found in British gyms.
4. Cultural Differences in Competition Atmosphere : The energy and atmosphere during NCAA competitions are significantly more vibrant and supportive, with teammates encouraged to cheer loudly for one another, contrasting with the quieter environment typically seen in British competitions.
5. Future Aspirations : There is a desire to continue gymnastics beyond college, with goals of achieving a high level of education and potentially specializing in certain apparatuses, while also considering the impact of body maintenance on long-term gymnastics participation.

BEST MOMENTS

1. Trigg Dudley: "When I train in the US, I'm training for a team, which brings a whole different new level of pressure that takes a little bit of getting adjusted to."
2. Trigg Dudley: "I think doing what you enjoy in training is key. If you want to be a specialist, focus on your strengths; if you want to do all-around, communicate that with your coaches."
3. Trigg Dudley: "I think the biggest goal is qualifying for a final. A bigger one is actually just making it here; it's quite hard to qualify these years."
4. Winston: "Would you say you prefer competing as a team or as an individual?"
5. Trigg Dudley: "I think I do want to continue my education after the four years I do at California. So that could be here, that could be in America."

MY SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.