Gymnastics is one of the toughest sports in the world.   Countless hours in the gym, sacrificing a social life, pushing your body to exhaustion, and for what?  To learn that sometimes even if you try your best, it still may not be good enough?  Gymnasts are taught to push themselves almost to their breaking point in order to attain the unattainable: perfection.  But what happens when a gymnast actually reaches his or her breaking point?  How do you know if it’s really time to throw in the towel?

Every gymnast reading this is familiar with the temptation of quitting.  You get home after a particularly bad practice and you are ready to give it all up.  You sit there thinking about every bad aspect of the sport.  Constantly waking up sore, pushing through injuries, and knowing that the cycle never ends.  You look down at your shredded up hands and think “why am I doing this to myself?”

Well I might just have your answer. 

The sport is more than just impressing everyone with your awesome flipping ability.  (Although, that part is pretty enjoyable). The sport of gymnastics turns you into an amazing person.  Skeptical?  Allow me to explain.

Gymnastics teaches you to overcome your fears.  The true definition of fear is revealed as you stand six feet over a four-inch beam, ready to attempt a skill that could get you killed.  Your brain tells you that you’re crazy to attempt such a dangerous trick, but when you finally go for it, it’s as if you could accomplish anything.

As if that isn’t enough, gymnastics also teaches discipline, determination, and great work ethic.  With 20+ hours of training per week, gymnasts know what it takes to get something done.  As well, the discipline you gain will follow you into your career path and put you ahead of your co-workers.

The most important thing to remember is that gymnastics will never be easy, but the lessons you learn are worth it.  Never let one bad practice keep you from achieving something you never thought you could.   

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