Nutrition is always a tricky topic, especially in gymnastics and youth sports, where resources and education on proper nutrition are often lacking. Coaches may find it difficult to discuss with parents, as it can be a sensitive subject. However, nutrition plays a crucial role in an athlete’s performance, mental and emotional well-being, and overall success in training and competition.
In this episode of Heated Conversations, registered dietitian Kerry Bair shares valuable insights on what nutrition truly means, offering definitions, practical advice, and ways for athletes and parents to educate themselves. Learn how proper nutrition can help athletes get the best out of their body, mind, soul, and spirit.
Check out Kerry Bair’s website and social media for more resources, or work with her directly to help your athlete reach the next level!
Website: https://www.foodforfuelrd.com
Instagram: @thegymnastrd
Facebook: The Gymnast RD
Join Ryan Roberts, Co-Head Coach of Georgia Gymnastics Bulldogs, and Xquiste Coach Eric Cali as they discuss everything bars! In this episode, they talk about the key elements needed to make a comeback, how to build proper bar techniques, and why having more than one circle is essential for success in gymnastics. Whether you're an athlete or coach, this conversation is full of valuable insights!
Don't forget to check out our Instagram at @Heatedconvospod for exclusive clips and additional content.
Enjoy the episode, and make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more exciting discussions!
In the summer of 2024, former Alabama gymnast Lexi Graber made a surprise appearance on the Heated Conversations Podcast, and fans were absolutely thrilled! Known for her incredible performances on vault and floor at the University of Alabama, Lexi opened up like never before in this candid interview.
In this episode, Lexi discusses her journey from being a star gymnast to life after college athletics. From the pressures of competing at the highest level to finding her identity beyond gymnastics, Lexi shares her personal experiences, challenges, and the exciting new chapters she’s exploring post-gymnastics.
We also dive into some fun moments from the podcast, including trivia games and lighthearted conversations with the hosts. This episode is a must-watch for gymnastics fans and anyone who loves hearing athletes' untold stories.
👉 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more in-depth interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes content!
#LexiGraber #HeatedConversationsPodcast #AlabamaGymnastics #Gymnastics #PodcastInterview #FormerGymnast #AthleteJourney
🔥 Extremely Passionate Head Coach of 3-Time Division 3 Gymnastics Powerhouse, Lauren Karnitz, Joins the Podcast! 🔥
We were thrilled to welcome Lauren Karnitz, Head Coach of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Gymnastics Team, to the podcast in January 2024! 🏅
In this inspiring episode, Lauren shares her incredible journey from athlete to head coach, culminating in her leading UWO to become a 3-time Division 3 Gymnastics National Champion. 🏆✨ She dives deep into the lessons she's learned, her philosophy on coaching, and the challenges and rewards of building a championship-caliber program—all at the same school where she once competed as an athlete.
🎧 Tune in for a conversation packed with passion, perseverance, and insights from one of the top coaches in D3 gymnastics!
Whitney Snowden’s journey in gymnastics began in Ohio, where she was mentored by one of the most respected coaches in the sport, Mary Lee Tracy.
Under her guidance, Whitney honed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of gymnastics, which laid the foundation for her own coaching philosophy.
Now, as a coach herself, Whitney is committed to more than just teaching skills—she is a life changer. With a heart for each athlete’s unique journey, she approaches coaching with care and compassion, offering personalized guidance to help them reach their full potential. By blending technical precision with unwavering support, Whitney walks alongside her athletes every step of the way, empowering them to not only achieve their gymnastics goals but also build resilience and confidence that extends far beyond the gym.Her commitment to the holistic development of each gymnast makes Whitney a coach who truly makes a difference.
Whitney Snowden brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as Associate Head Coach for the Mizzou Women’s Gymnastics team, having joined Head Coach Shannon Welker in 2022. Prior to her time at Mizzou, Whitney made a significant impact as a coach at Michigan State, where she helped guide athletes to new heights in their gymnastics careers.
Now, as part of a dynamic coaching staff that includes Jackie Terpak and Lacey Rubin, Whitney continues to foster excellence in every aspect of the program—technical skill, mental toughness, and team cohesion.
Together, this talented coaching trio is committed to shaping the next generation of gymnasts, driving the Tigers to compete at the highest level.
Check out Mizzou’s 2025 schedule for an exciting season ahead: 2025 Mizzou Gymnastics Schedule.https://mutigers.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule
#MizzouGymnastics #TigerPride #GymnasticsExcellence
Mental Blocks Are Real—Especially This Time of Year As the season intensifies and the holidays approach, mental blocks can become more prevalent for both athletes and coaches. The anticipation of performance goals and the pressure to achieve can trigger stress and hinder progress. It's common for athletes to experience mental and emotional challenges, especially when juggling the demands of training and competition. Stacey (Goodrich) Herman, Founder of So Connected, understands these struggles deeply. So Connected is a unique space dedicated to supporting athletes and coaches in navigating the mental and emotional aspects of gymnastics that often aren't addressed during regular practice. Stacey and her team provide valuable tools to help athletes work through mental blocks, develop resilience, and maintain a healthy mindset. Whether at the gym or at home, the resources shared by So Connected empower athletes to continue their journey toward holistic success—both physically and emotionally. By fostering a positive and supportive culture, Stacey is helping shape a healthier, more connected experience for athletes and coaches alike. 💡 Want to learn more? Follow Stacey on Facebook to join her community, where she shares free tips, strategies, and resources to help athletes thrive. Let's work together to create a mentally strong, balanced, and successful environment—both in the gym and beyond! 💪 https://www.facebook.com/groups/Socostacey/ You email her at: Stacey@so-connected.com
As the 2024 college gymnastics season was kicking off, I had the unique opportunity to sit down with long-time coach Byron Knox. With decades of experience, Coach Knox has not only witnessed but has been an integral part of the evolution of college gymnastics. His legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the sport, and his contributions have helped shape the history of collegiate gymnastics in ways few others can claim. A true pioneer, his insights into the sport, the challenges faced, and the moments that define its legacy make him an invaluable figure in the gymnastics community—one whose impact stretches far beyond the competition floor.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Co-Head Coach Ryan Roberts to discuss all things Gymdogs and the University of Georgia. Ryan and his coaching staff boast impressive accolades across the sport of gymnastics, spanning the developmental, NCAA, and Olympic levels. Ryan serves as Co-Head Coach alongside Cécile Canqueteau-Landi, who is not only a former developmental coach but is also renowned as Simone Biles’ coach and an Olympian herself. With such an experienced staff, UGA is certainly in good hands!
* I DO NOT OWN THE IMAGE IN THE COVER OF THIS EPISODE
Gustavus Head Gymnastics coach, Aryn DeGrood and I had a great conversation at the beginning of the 2024 season, where we discussed the vision she has for the team. I know it has been a while since I last posted and this episode was during the 2024 season but the insights can still relate today. Please enjoy!
I had a chance to sit down with All American recent Alabama graduate student athlete Lusia Blanco, where we discussed her journey leading her to the 2024 Paris Olympics. It was great to hear the authenticity she has for the sport, her support system and her opportunity to grow within the sport.
Dr. Meg Crowley, Head coach of Centenary Gymnastics program and talks about, what she looked forward to prior to the 2024 season. The episode was filmed prior to season but it gives good perspective bout Dr. Crowley and the School. If you would need more information about how to help with Pelvic floor feel free to contact her.
Email: mlcrowley@centenary.edu
Episode 2 with Perfect 10.0 PT Brandi Smith. we dive into core and back exercises that will help keep your athletes healthy.
Check out these core exercises she mentions in the episode.
Plank 101
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_QzQI8jMuW/?igsh=dmkxdW91ZXljY2h1
Leg Lift Progression
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzUGG_rpXbY/?igsh=Z3BvZmltdGF4MXlw
Shaping
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_GMRHpDU0U/?igsh=ZTNpY3c3Z2g0YWJz
Plank 201
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhKYT_dgb2t/?igsh=em9iZjJzb2MwdjFr
You want more access to Brandi Smith and her material, look no further. https://www.perfect10ptacademy.com
Perform Happy and Complete Performance Founder Rebecca Smith Joined the podcast earlier this year to discuss Mental blocks in athletes and solutions for athletes, coaches and parents to help athletes with the mental side of the sport. She shares many tips and nuggets that can help take your coaching to the next level and to foster a great environment. She has her own Podcast where she has conversations with coaches and athletes to share their journey and tips they have learned along the way. Website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7qWQQpnv6UIFCMwgDZnwDb?si=29a9bd11dc004a33
Sarah Korngold joined the podcast prior to the 2024 season to discuss Ascend gymnastics, olympics, Womentum, steps to developing gymnast and olympic training with Shilese Jones.
Sarah along with Cleo Washington are the clinicians who run Womentum camp which is an extension of Best Darn Gymnastics camps.
From website:Are you ready to take your coaching skills to the next level? Look no further than our transformative workshop led by Cleo Washington and Sarah Korngold.
We will focus on equipping coaches with the tools to excel in spotting, and explore creative approaches to get the job done. We firmly believe that successful coaching is not solely dependent on physical strength; it’s about knowledge, technique, and passion. We will demonstrate that proper progressions and innovative methods can empower coaches of all body types to successfully guide and support their athletes. Join us as we celebrate the strength and creativity of women in coaching and unlock the limitless possibilities for your journey.
You can find information about the clinic in the link below.
Womentum Camp:https://bestdarngymnastics.com/womentum/
Perfect 10.0 Physical therapist Brandi Smith and I discuss some great topics centered around Pre habilitation exercises for gymnast to do each day that can help them avoid injuries. We discussed how loading the wrist has not been properly taught and some solutions we all can add to what we are already doing. Multiple times during this interview Brandi state "it's not what we are doing, it is how we are doing it". Rethinking the way we do things is a way we can find resolution to the injuries we may be facing. Brandi discusses how bridges should be done every practice for all levels of gymnast but doing them with legs bent and thinking about using the chest to lift the bridge rather than legs. She also talks about using bands to help facilitate and communicate proper alignment and positions when doing these exercises and our basics. Here are some more information about Brandi and some learning material you can use in your daily practices. Free Training: www.Perfect10PTAcademy.com Yoga Nerve Flow Dynamic Warm Up https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jbNB1yuiRp8e58Xe/?mibextid=WC7FNe Invincible Athlete: https://perfect10physicaltherapy.com/products/ Check out her Facebook page and Instagram for more education and videos: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1726513627747695 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfect10pt?igsh=NDltZGo4M3FreXVk
