“Not How We Operate”: Simone Biles’ Behavior With Teammates Was Discouraged by Head Coach During Early Days of Gymnastics

One may now know Simone Biles as the gymnastics GOAT. Having won 25 World Championships and eight Olympic medals, she has already achieved the pinnacle in the sport. And it’s always a delight to see Simone posing with all her awards. However, her road to that journey was never easy. It was not just the competitors that she had to defeat; sometimes, the struggle was within.

Talking about her life’s struggle, Simone in her book “Courage to Sour” talks about her journey. All throughout her life, Simone strived to stay true to herself! However, head coach Márta Károlyi was not a big fan of her “being Simone.”

That one habit of Simone that made her head coach intervene

Unlike others, Simone never restricted herself from expressing herself. Even when her competitors won the round or performed well, she would always be the first one to congratulate them. And while doing so, sometimes, she would also hug them. However, her head coach did not really appreciate this behavior.

Adding more, Simone revealed that on one such occasion, Martha took her aside and enquired, “Simone, what are you doing?” Being stern in her approach, Martha said, “You can’t go around talking to everybody and cheering and waving like that.” In an attempt to discipline her, Martha further added, “you have to stay serious and focused here.” She reminded Simone that it was “It’s not how we operate.” 

Read More: “Was Spinning Around on My Neck”: Simone Biles Recalled the Dread of Her Gymnastics Existence in Her Book.

All in concern and goodwill, Martha hence advised Simone to concentrate on her own routine. The 4-time Olympic gold medalist realized from where her coach was coming. Biles revealed that Karolyi thought that since she was trying to be social and interact with other girls, she was not mentally in her zone. For Martha, Simone’s behavior was nothing but a distraction. However, her notions changed soon.

Socialising came as a blessing for Simone Biles 

What Martha perceived as a distraction was, in turn, a blessing in disguise for Simone. Her socializing skills helped her keep her sanity before the competition. Otherwise, as Simone revealed ahead of the competition, she would stress out more. It did not just affect her mental health, but also impacted her performance.

Simone realized that instead of focusing more on the competition, it would be wise of her to consider it an extension of her everyday practice. She knew the best way to deal with the competition was to keep trusting herself! Which she did and achieved one success after another.

Watch This Story: Jonathan Owens’ Heart Melted When he Saw Gymnastics Icon Simone Biles Cheering Up for him.

What are your takes on Marta’s approach to asking Simone not to be that social during her early days? Leave your comments below.