In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, Winston engages in an insightful conversation with George Atkins, a talented GB gymnast with over 12 years of experience. George shares his unique journey through gymnastics, including his transition from under 12 to under 16 competitions and the challenges he faced during his career, particularly during the Junior Worlds. As they explore the impact of recent injuries on George's training and performance, they also touch on the upcoming changes in gymnastics codes and how these will affect routines and strategies for athletes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Unique Competition Journey: George Atkins has had an unconventional path in gymnastics, spending a significant portion of his career competing in the under-16 category due to circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and competition regulations.
• Mental Challenges in Competition: George faced mental hurdles during competitions, particularly after experiencing equipment malfunctions and performance anxiety, which affected his ability to execute routines effectively.
• Importance of Preparation: The discussion highlights the significance of proper competition preparation, including the need for adequate warm-up time and routine practice to build confidence and endurance, especially before major events like the Junior Worlds.
• Injury Recovery and Adaptation: After suffering a leg injury and a subsequent finger fracture, George emphasised the importance of adapting training to focus on strength and skill development, which ultimately helped him improve in areas like ring strength.
• Adapting to New Code Requirements: The conversation touches on the upcoming changes in gymnastics codes, emphasising the need for gymnasts to diversify their routines and incorporate new skills, such as flops on the pommel and double somersaults on the floor, to meet evolving competition standards.\

BEST MOMENTS

"I was never the most talented or physically gifted, so I've always had to work very hard for things."

"I think I should have stopped straight away and almost re-evaluated what I was doing."

"I was so excited to get back into training, and everything was going well at that point."

"I think it's very important to be able to fall off, but also to fight through."

"I think the finger was, could be doing too much too quick."

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.

SOCIAL LINK

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