During the 2020 Olympic Games, Simone Biles came down with the twisties. According to Health, the term is used to describe a “mental block” that some gymnasts experience. It can cause disorientation, making it dangerous for a gymnast to practice, let alone compete. “The body knows what to do, and motor programs are stored in the brain, but the brain is having trouble accessing those motor programs,” Dr. Jamie Shapiro of the University of Denver told the outlet. Meanwhile, Biles recalls “the craziest feeling ever. Not having an inch of control over your body” (per People magazine). Slowly but surely, Biles started getting back to practicing at a local gym in Texas, though she didn’t feel quite ready to compete — until now.
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In August, Biles made her highly anticipated return to the sport, competing in the Core Hydration Classic. According to CNN, she competed in the uneven bars, balance beam, floor exercise and vault, earning first place in three out of four events. “It felt really good,” she said after the outing. She was met with cheers as the gold medal was placed around her neck — a familiar feeling that she was –happy to experience once more. As we inch closer to the 2024 Olympics in Paris, just about everyone is wondering if Biles will compete. Including her.
