Simone Biles’ Coach Reveals the Gymnast Suffered from ‘Twisties’ Years Before Pulling Out of Tokyo Olympics

Simone Biles Experienced ‘Twisties’ Long Before Tokyo Olympics

Simone Biles, the celebrated gymnast, encountered the challenging phenomenon known as the “twisties” not only during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but also five years prior, as revealed by her former coach. Aimee Boorman, Biles’ long-time coach, disclosed in a recently published book that the 28-year-old athlete first grappled with the disorienting condition in a significant way five years before competing in Tokyo in 2021. The twisties, a dreaded phenomenon amongst gymnasts, causes individuals to lose their spatial awareness during mid-air routines, posing a grave risk to their performance and safety.

According to The Guardian, Biles’ battle with the twisties emerged three months after her triumphant performance at the World Gymnastics Championships in 2015, where she clinched four gold medals. Boorman, who guided Biles from the age of seven leading up to the Rio Games in 2016, detailed the impact of the twisties on Biles’ routines. She noted that Biles struggled to execute twists, often stopping herself mid-air out of fear of losing orientation. The gymnast exhibited remarkable self-control by halting her twists to avoid potential mishaps.

After undergoing therapy and seeking support from her family, Biles managed to navigate her way back to performing twists in time for the 2016 Olympic Trials, a critical milestone preceding the Rio Games. Boorman expressed relief that Biles overcame the twisties without sustaining any injuries. This episode underscored the resilience and adaptability of elite gymnasts, demonstrating that they can temporarily abstain from challenging elements without compromising their skillset.

While Biles successfully conquered the twisties at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the same obstacle resurfaced during the 2021 Games in Tokyo. Regrettably, Biles made the tough decision to withdraw from the team competition, sparking a frenzied media reaction that prompted self-reflection, therapy sessions, and a two-year hiatus from international competitions. Biles’ current coach, Laurent Landi, recognised the tell-tale signs of the twisties in Tokyo when he observed her struggles during warm-up routines, emphasising the mental and physical toll the condition exacts on gymnasts.

In a Netflix documentary titled “Simone Biles Rising,” Biles candidly shared her internal turmoil during the Tokyo Olympics, describing the overwhelming sensation of being disoriented and the internal conflict she experienced. Despite the numerous challenges she faced, including the tumultuous Tokyo Games, Biles made a remarkable comeback at the Paris Olympics three years later. Her stellar performance at the competition earned her four medals, including three gold, solidifying her status as one of the greatest and most decorated gymnasts in history.

The journey of triumphs and setbacks faced by Simone Biles serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination required to excel in the world of elite sports. Her unwavering commitment to her craft, coupled with her ability to confront and overcome adversities, continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes worldwide. As she navigates the evolving landscape of competitive gymnastics, Biles’ story resonates as a testament to the indomitable spirit of athletic excellence and the unwavering pursuit of greatness.

In conclusion, Simone Biles’ resilience in the face of significant challenges exemplifies the essence of a true champion, inspiring generations to pursue their aspirations with unwavering dedication and courage in the pursuit of excellence.