We are so excited to have been able to track down and spend a few minutes with GK Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist, Alexandra Raisman even with her hectic schedule! Up close and personal, Aly shares some of her recent real life experiences with us!
GK: What is the biggest lesson learned from your season with Dancing with the Stars?
AR: I learned so much from being on the show. It gave me so much confidence. It was so amazing to go out there every single week and try something out of my comfort zone. It was definitely hard, nerve racking, and stressful because I knew that about 15 million people were watching each week so I wanted to do a good job. I worked really hard and believed in myself. I think when competing and performing half the battle is confidence!
GK: Do you keep in touch with the other contestants and your partner?
AR: Yes! I do keep in touch with mostly everyone! Everyone is really busy which is awesome! I'm so happy for Zendaya because she is starting her new album. I can't wait to hear it. Kelli is busy on tour, and I'm hoping to go to one of her shows! I'm definitely a Pats fan but I will be cheering for Jacoby this season, too. He is like my older brother! Mark is also busy working on his music career. I'm so happy for him.
GK: How did those relationships grow as you got to know each other?
AR: We spent literally every second together for three months. We all know each other so well.
GK: If you could do it all again, what would you do different?
AR: I don't like to think that way. I have no regrets. I had a blast, and that's what is the most important to me.
GK: What are you up to now that you have some free time?
AR: I am traveling a bunch! I have been doing Pandora Jewelry appearances which are always fun. I love dressing up and picking out jewelry to dress up the outfit. I always like to be over dressed rather than underdressed. I've gone to a lot of events this year which has been fun for me because I love fashion. It's fun to put outfits together!
GK: Are you enjoying any hobbies?
AR: I love shopping!! What girl doesn't? I have been having a great summer hanging out with my friends and family.
GK: Now that you are back to work and helping out with gymnastics camps, what is your biggest challenge with juggling your time?
AR: This whole year has been crazy! So much fun, but very busy. Sometimes I feel like I don't have enough "me" time. I wouldn't trade this life for anything but I appreciate time with family and friends so much because I am always traveling.
GK: What is your best advice to other gymnasts on how to remain positive and focused through training hardships?
AR: Believe in yourself. It's not always fun or easy. It's actually never easy. Gymnastics is the greatest sport ever and the most challenging. It's important to remember everyone has bad days. We're only human!
GK: How do you handle being an idol for many aspiring athletes?
AR: It's amazing! Such an honor. I always try to be myself no matter what.
GK: Are you ready to start training again? Have you begun your own workout regimen to get back in the swing?
AR: Yes, I'm so excited to begin training again! I've missed it. I'll probably start in August.
Aly has inspired her own designs in gymnastics leotards! Shop our Aly Raisman Collection today and see the latest her summer styles.
GK. Choice of Champions.