Simone Biles’ life took a drastic turn when she was out for a daycare field trip. As she saw other girls tumbling and flipping on trampolines, she could not help but copy them. Impressed by the young girl’s passion, the coach, too, was quick to send a letter to ask her to join the class.

As Biles changed into her Leotards and put on the gymnastics shoe, she hardly anticipated her life would change forever. Taking one step at a time, the young gymnast eventually secured the highest pedestal in the sport’s history. Securing the title of the G.O.A.T., she made a brand out of her name. But was the road easy? It called in for multiple sacrifices, the details of which she revealed in her Facebook documentary, “Simone VS Herself.”

Simone Biles talked about the sacrifices she made

As Simone started her training under the guidance of coach Aimee Boorman, she realized that she wanted to pursue it seriously. However, her choice demanded a “lot of sacrifices.” The details of which she also highlights in her book ‘Courage to Soar.’ To go ahead with her gymnastics dream at fourteen, she decided to let go of her dreams of studying in a public school by opting to be home-schooled.

Leading a regimented life, she even “gave up all the school dances.” Unlike girls of her age, she never went to a prom. Highlighting further, she adds that she never had “done a lot of those things” that maybe most kids are doing or want to do. However, she holds no regret, for she fell in love with the sport.

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It was her love for gymnastics that helped her stay motivated and kept her going. Though she faced initial hurdles, she kept braving front. Soon her sacrifices and hard work paid off. After competing in the junior elite competitions, she successfully secured her spot for the 2013 International debut. It wasn’t long after that before she showed the world her true potential.

Simone’s fame paved the way to pursue childhood dreams

Simone had to give up her ‘school dances’ to pursue gymnastics, but her sacrifice got paid off when she got an offer to participate in the famous reality show Dancing With The Stars season 24. Partnering with Sasha Farber, the young gymnast turned heads with her dancing skills. Throughout her nine-week run, she performed several classic dance styles.

From Foxtrot, Rumba, Tango, Freestyle, and contemporary, Simone and her partner finished 4th in the show. She may not have won the trophy, but she won hearts. And most importantly got the dance her heart out without any restrictions.

Watch This Story: Relive the unseen images of Olympic medalist Simone Biles with her loving family.