Parents Mental Performance Coaching

[Unchained MPC]

Hello Everyone!

I used to be a competitive Junior Olympic gymnast from age 4-14. I had a dream to train for and compete in the Olympics. Unfortunately God had other plans for me haha. I had a career-ending injury and took up swimming and diving for rehab and enjoyment.

I now am a Sport Psychology Professional who helps parents of athletes, athletes, and coaches. Ask me anything Feel free to post here or message me!

 

[GiaTheGymnast]

Hi I am a second year xcel gold gymnast and did one year of silver also and rec classes for 10 years before that and I have had a mental block on squat ons for five years now and I have gotten them consistent a few times but then would just lose it and they scare me a lot and I have tried Avery thing from drills to YouTube videos to repetitions and spots and nothing works sometimes I will be able to make it but it just dosent feel right and I am to scared to even have a spot from my coach when I used to have it consistent for the longest time I’ve ever had it consistent was when my bar set that I use was in a different spot in the gym then it is now and after they moved it I just couldn’t do it even though they just scooted it up and away from how close it was to the wall. Last year and In silver I was never able to make it and not even when we would show routines at the gym but at meets I would be able to make it because of the pressure but this year I just had my first meet and it wasn’t the best since I took a month off because I broke my finger and I had only two weeks to prepare I diddnt even try my squat on because now it just feels like in my brain I can’t even attempt to do it and they don’t feel natural, this is supposed to be my last year of gold and if I can’t go to platinum next year I will have to quit so I really need this and my coach always tells me not to be a weenie and just do it but they don’t understand that it is such a mental obstacle that I’m facing not a physical one and not a weenie problem

 

[Gym_momma]

Do you have any advice or resources to help a gymnast focus on their own journey and to stop comparing with others? Specifically with their siblings or teammate? My daughter has been experience some doubts recently because she feels like she is taking longer to get skills than teammates. She is an excellent gymnast so trying to help her focus on herself.

 

[Unchained MPC]

Do you have any advice or resources to help a gymnast focus on their own journey and to stop comparing with others? Specifically with their siblings or teammate? My daughter has been experience some doubts recently because she feels like she is taking longer to get skills than teammates. She is an excellent gymnast so trying to help her focus on herself.

Hi!

So sorry for the late response!

Here’s what I’d suggest hope this helps!

First, I'd normalize her experience. Comparison is natural, especially when surrounded by teammates and siblings who train in the same environment. The fact that she's aware of these feelings shows self-awareness, which is a strength.

Then:

1. Create a personal progress journal where she tracks her own improvements, however small. This shifts focus from external comparison to internal growth markers.

2. Introduce the concept of "personal timeline" - everyone's body, mind, and learning style work on different schedules. Some skills might come faster to her than others, and vice versa for her teammates.

3. Help her identify her unique strengths in gymnastics. Does she have exceptional form, artistry, consistency, or mental toughness? Recognizing her specific gifts can build confidence.

4. Consider working with a sports psychologist who specializes in youth athletes if these feelings persist. They can provide personalized mental tools specifically for gymnasts.

For resources, I'd recommend "The Mindful Athlete" by George Mumford (adapted for her age) and the "Changing the Game Project" which has excellent resources for parents of young athletes.

Most importantly, remind her that skill acquisition timing is just one small aspect of being a gymnast. Her journey, persistence, and love for the sport are what truly define her gymnastics experience.

 

[Unchained MPC]

Hi I am a second year xcel gold gymnast and did one year of silver also and rec classes for 10 years before that and I have had a mental block on squat ons for five years now and I have gotten them consistent a few times but then would just lose it and they scare me a lot and I have tried Avery thing from drills to YouTube videos to repetitions and spots and nothing works sometimes I will be able to make it but it just dosent feel right and I am to scared to even have a spot from my coach when I used to have it consistent for the longest time I’ve ever had it consistent was when my bar set that I use was in a different spot in the gym then it is now and after they moved it I just couldn’t do it even though they just scooted it up and away from how close it was to the wall. Last year and In silver I was never able to make it and not even when we would show routines at the gym but at meets I would be able to make it because of the pressure but this year I just had my first meet and it wasn’t the best since I took a month off because I broke my finger and I had only two weeks to prepare I diddnt even try my squat on because now it just feels like in my brain I can’t even attempt to do it and they don’t feel natural, this is supposed to be my last year of gold and if I can’t go to platinum next year I will have to quit so I really need this and my coach always tells me not to be a weenie and just do it but they don’t understand that it is such a mental obstacle that I’m facing not a physical one and not a weenie problem

Hi Gia!

I apologize for the late reply!!

I understand you're having trouble with your squat on. That's not because you're a "weenie" - it's called a mental block, and lots of amazing gymnasts get them!

Here's how we can help your brain and body work together again:

1. **Take a skill vacation**: Don't try any squat ons for 2 weeks. Your brain needs a little break from worrying about them.

2. **Be a movie director**: Close your eyes for 3 minutes each day and imagine yourself doing perfect squat ons. Make it super detailed - how it feels when your hands grip the bar, the push from your legs, everything!

3. **Make friends with the bar again**: Since you mentioned doing better when the bar was in a different spot, let's start super simple. Maybe just hanging from the bar in its new spot, then slowly building up.

4. **Climbing the ladder**: Think of skills as a ladder. Start with the easiest step that feels totally comfortable. Only move up when you feel ready!

5. **Superhero thoughts**: When you catch yourself thinking "I'm scared," try changing it to "I'm working on a challenge." Write down tiny victories in a special notebook.

Remember: Your gymnastics journey is YOUR journey! Everyone learns at different speeds. The fact that you've been working on this for so long shows how determined you are - and that's what makes a true champion.