The Simone Biles Effect: When "Toughness" Isn't Enough
The image of Simone Biles, one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, stepping back from the Olympic stage in 2021 sent shockwaves through the sports world. The reason? The "twisties"—a terrifying mental block causing disorientation mid-air. Maya Angelou's words, "Still I Rise," tattooed on Biles' chest, are a testament to her resilience. Yet, even the strongest among us can falter.
This isn't just about gymnastics. From golfers' "yips" to basketball players' sudden shooting slumps, athletes across disciplines face mental hurdles. Research links these blocks to stress, anxiety, and overtraining – the brain's way of saying "enough."
Biles' courageous decision sparked a global conversation. It shattered the myth that athletes must be superhuman, pushing through pain and ignoring their mental state. As she put it, "It's okay to sit out the big competitions to focus on yourself." This resonated far beyond the sports arena, reminding us all that self-care isn't selfish—it's the foundation of strength.
Self-Care: Your Mental Toolkit
Just as we need rest to recover our muscles, we need time to recharge our minds. Consider these tools:
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours. It's not just about rest, it's about letting your brain process and repair.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Even 5 minutes a day can help you tune into your body and emotions.
- Therapy: Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance. A therapist can provide tools to manage stress and anxiety.
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say "no" to protect your energy and time.
- Joyful Activities: Schedule time for hobbies that recharge you, whether it's painting, hiking, or simply reading a book.
My Journey: From Darkness to Strength
As a strength and conditioning coach and someone who's faced anxiety and depression, I've seen both sides of the coin. For me, lifting weights isn't just about physical strength—it's my meditation, my way to channel emotions and find clarity. Sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. We all have limits. It takes courage to admit when we need support. Prioritizing your mental health isn't a sign of weakness—it's a testament to your self-awareness and resilience.
It's time to break the stigma around mental health in sports and beyond. Let's create a culture where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their well-being.
Have you ever felt the twisties, not in the gym, but in your own life? When did you realize that taking a step back was the bravest thing you could do?
P.S. Check out the Netflix documentary "Simone vs Herself" for a powerful look at Simone Biles' journey and the importance of mental health in sports.
Samuel Rodrigues McFeely Personal Trainer & Strength and Conditioning Coach
IG - @coach.sam.mcfeely
email - coachsam@mcfeely.com
Research Reference:
Mental Health Issues and Psychological Factors in Athletes: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/54/4/216