Check out what this Level 4, training level 6 gymnast (she has plans to mobilize out of Level 5) has to say about her experience and the awesome advice she has to give other gymnasts, particularly those who compete in other sports. Marian is a dedicated SkillTrakker gymnast, who is also a black belt in Taekwondo! She feels SkillTrakker has helped her so much in both Taekwondo and gymnastics. We hope you enjoy this interview by Marian as much as we did!
Q: What’s your name and level?
A: Hi friends, I’m Marian. I’m training Level 6 and I competed Level 4 last season.
Q: When did you start gymnastics?
A: I was 4 when I first started summer class, then I was invited to train for pre-team.
Q: How many sports do you compete in?
A: I compete in gymnastics and Taekwondo. I am a four-time World Champion in Taekwondo and an eight-time State Champion in gymnastics.
Q: How many hours do you train each week in your sports & how do you fit it in with school?
A: I train 18 hours a week in gymnastics and in between I practice Taekwondo, especially on the weekends. I homeschooled during COVID and I chose to continue after that. I finish school earlier than in normal school and I use that time to practice at home and rest my body.
Q: What are your goals with gymnastics?
A: My goal is to go as far as I can in levels and competition. My goal for now is to compete Level 6 next season.
Q: How do you fit SkillTrakker in while training for 2 competitive sports, particularly during meet/competition season?
A: It’s all about planning ahead. Tawkwondo season is year-round. In fact, after I compete in the World Championships in mid-July, the new season starts the next day. We try to participate in Taekwondo tournaments during gymnastics off-season. Thankfully, there have been no conflicts with major tournaments and meets so far. I would do my SkillTrakker as part of my warm-ups for meets. It actually works out well. I carve out some time, even when I’m out of town, to do the drills. It only takes a few minutes.
Q: How do you overcome fears and mental blocks?
A: I think positively!
Q: Have you ever wanted to quit, and if so, what made you stay?
A: Taekwondo is our family sport. My brothers compete too. Gymnastics and Taekwondo compliment each other. Both offer certain benefits for the mind and the body.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about gymnastics?
A: My favorite thing about gymnastics is competing and making new friends.
Q: What advice would you give to gymnasts who have a passion for other sports as well?
A: Try to manage your time well. If you really want to do something, you can make it happen.
Q: What would be one component you would tell a lower level gymnast to focus on outside of the gym, that makes the most impact?
A: For me, it’s important to do your best in everything. There’s always room for improvement and there are many resources out there. One that works for me is SkillTrakker, so go check it out!
If you’re on Instagram go follow @tinymeanmarianmachine
2 Comments
How old were you when you relized you wanted to be a gymnast?
i want to acheive my goal of being a gymnast like simone arianne biles