Simone Biles / Twitter
Simone Biles, a four-time Olympic gold medallist, is making her return to gymnastics.
She is participating in her first U.S. national team camp since winning team silver and balance beam bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which took place in 2021 because of COVID-19.
Biles withdrew from most of the 2020 competition due to struggles with “the twisties.”
The twisties are a gymnastics phenomena in which a gymnast loses control of their body while twisting through the air. This can force them to twist more, lose their equilibrium, and potentially fall. The twisties are extremely hazardous and can result in catastrophic injuries.
Biles’ choice to take a mental health vacation was widely praised. Many people applauded her for her bravery and openness regarding her mental health. Her choice also contributed to a greater understanding of the significance of mental health in athletics.
Biles has subsequently discussed how her mental health sabbatical assisted her in healing and finding a new balance in her life. She has also expressed gratitude for the support she has gotten from her supporters and the gymnastics community.
Simone Biles is scheduled to compete in the US Classic on Aug. 5, 2023, and she has also said that she is considering competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Biles has expressed excitement for her return to competition and has already registered for August’s U.S. Classic.
In an Instagram story posted on July 9, Biles shared that she was “Back at camp” with her teammate Zoe Miller. The U.S. camp, which is taking place at Stars Gymnastics in Katy, Tex. until July 12, provides Biles with the opportunity to work with national staff and receive feedback from internationally rated judges before her debut on August 5.
It is worth noting that Biles will need to modify her previous routines due to new rules adopted by the International Gymnastics Federation following the Tokyo Games.
The feedback she receives at the camp could be helpful in this regard.