We recently caught up with 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist Alexandra Raisman on her return to the gym! Her Olympic journey began over 10 years ago, and her recent Hollywood Star lifestyle is now leading the way back to reality. For Aly, reality means making guest appearances, helping with charities, sponsorships, and, of course, her gymnastics training. Here, she shares her feelings on stepping back into the gym and expresses her future goals.
GK: Now that you are back in the gym, what do you feel you have learned from this past year that will help you with your training?
Aly: I have had such a special year. I feel so lucky and appreciative for such amazing parents, family, and coaches. I really value my relationship with Mihai and Sylvie, my coaches. They were so understanding and supportive of me taking the full year off. I mentally needed that, but I woke up one morning and felt ready to begin the journey of training again! I feel so happy to be back. I look forward to workouts everyday. I have a great relationship with my younger teammates so it feels like a family. I have definitely learned a lot about myself. This past year was overwhelming at times, but I found that inner confidence and happiness are key. I always appreciate the little things in life!
GK: What are your goals this year personally and physically?
Aly:My goal this year is to get back in shape! I feel great, actually much better than I thought I would! I would like to compete in my first meet next summer. I'd like to take things slow, so that when my first competition comes, I feel confident and ready!
GK: Do you have a specific diet that you follow to maintain your gymnast physique?
Aly: I always try to eat healthy. Fueling your body with the right nutrients and staying hydrated is so important. I work out up to 7 1/2 hours some days, so I make sure I have enough protein to fuel my muscles. Of course eating healthy is extremely important, but I don't obsess over it. A splurge every now and then is okay!
GK: How many hours do you spend in the gym on a daily basis now that you are back full force?
Aly: I am back doing one workout a day for four hours. I am not training as much as I was before the Olympics because the first few months will mostly be conditioning and basic skills. I will need to get back to my full strength before trying any new event skills! It's not like I walk in after a year off and whip out a floor routine. I have to take baby steps!
GK: Which athletes do you look up to? Who inspires you to be the best you can be?
Aly: I look up to so many athletes, it doesn't matter the sport. I get inspired by watching hockey, football, swimming, anything! I love watching athletes achieve their goals and dreams. It is so inspiring!
GK: When did you know that you wanted to come back and compete again? What are your motivations and goals for the future?
Aly:I knew at the end of the summer that I was ready to come back! I am so motivated because I always say it is never enough. You can always do more. I truly believe in my heart that I have more to give in the sport of gymnastics!
We wish Aly the best with her training and transition back to gymnastics, a passion we all share. We are so excited to have just released our new Aly styles in our 2014 Aly Raisman Holiday Workout Essentials Collection. Shop the entire 2014 Workout Essentials Catalog today!
GK. Choice of Champions.