Lindsey Wood | Keep a Strong Mindset
Who and what got you involved in Gymnastics?
Well, I used to do karate and the gym would come over every friday to do a lesson with stunts. One of the Gymnastics coaches thought that it would be a good idea to try me in gymnastics. I decided I wanted to try to do gymnastics when I was 6. I loved it and the coach that brought me out was to try it was my coach at the gym. She inspired me and helped me through some of the levels. I have now been doing gymnastics for 7-8 years and love it so much.
What is your number one philosophy you live by?
Always go 110% and never give up! I have lived by this for almost my whole gymnastics career and I always tell myself that when I'm at a low point, or when I get some nerves. I find the best to show well and do my gymnastics well and confidently.
What has been the highlight of your Gymnastics career?
I have been State Championship Champion in AA and other events in level 3,4,6. I am a level 8 now and training for level 9. I've been to the Regional Championships and won floor in level 6. I moved out of level 5 and level 7, so I could go to the next level. Its almost like skipping school grades! This year in Level 8 I have been super happy of how I've competed! I have Won almost every meet in first place, and came second in the other. I've only come in first and second! Unfortunately because of the Coronavirus my season was cut short. Other than that, I had a great season this year!
Who is your biggest inspiration in and outside of the gym?
Simone Biles has always been my number one and I always see her as my biggest inspiration. Outside of gym my biggest inspiration is my family tagging behind me, supporting me all the way in everything I do. I also have to include my coaches and teammates that are with me. They have seen my lowest of times but definitely my highest of times through this loving sport and getting the reward of it all is just amazing.
What is your ultimate goal in Gymnastics?
I would love to get into any big colleges or elite levels to compete. It would be a dream, but that only comes from hard work which I'm determined to make come true.
What advice would you give to females starting to get into gymnastics?
My advice (as a 14 year old in high-school and gymnastics) would be to always push yourself mentally, never give up, never think negatively, and always think of the future. The dots will connect with all of the work you will put it. Trust me, it will all flood out of great rewards!
What was an obstacle you had to overcome?
Biggest obstacles are injuries. I have stress-fractured my back, and it pushed me back. I stayed strong and was a beast at coming back. It came with some sad times crying when I couldn't do this sport. The determination I had to this sport was unbelievable and I needed to keep going. As a result, I will never forget all of the hard work that goes into everything.
What advice to you give to women when they’re afraid to workout because they don’t want to bulk?
Being a strong woman, mentally and physically, is a huge part in gymnastics. It will always stay if you want to be successful and reach your goals. Some people get it easier, some have to work harder to get better results, but the people who always work, always do their job, and always push themselves get the reward of strength and beauty. One thing of being a super bulky woman is about naming and judging. Some people judge others off of their appearance and don't see the back story. Some times when people see me, they think of hulk. Its very funny but some people let it get to them and wont move forward. Just try to keep a strong mindset and always look at the futuristic dots. When it comes to gymnastics, it always involves strength in so many ways.
What is your favorite event?
My favorite events in Gymnastics would have to be tied between Bars, Floor, and Vault followed by the Beam.