"Rhythmic gymnastics has taken the whole country!" Lidiya Ivanova talks about her impressions of the Russian Championship

At the Russian Championships, Lidiya Ivanova, the two-time Olympic champion in artistic gymnastics team competitions, the two-time world champion, and the Honored Master of Sports of the USSR, shared her impressions of the performances and told what the secret of champions is:

"In hellish toil. Even when I watch all the programs today, I think, my goodness, what lovely girls, how beautiful they are. Some stand out with even greater skills. We currently have Mariia Borisova. She's a real gem, but she's so nervous. This is a normal phenomenon. You know, when they call your name and you step out onto that big stage and have to show everything you've learned. Believe me, it's not just one person whose knees are shaking; everyone is nervous. But the athlete who manages also to overcome these internal struggles and demonstrate in full everything she is able to do at that moment is bound to succeed. Rhythmic gymnastics has taken the whole country — that's great. I am in favor of girls listening to music, knowing how to dance, and using their imagination. And skill is honed in sports halls endlessly, monotonously."

She explained why the continuity of generations is important in gymnastics:

"It's so important when they see such a master of their sport nearby. She'll show you the movement, so try to do it like she does. When you talk about charisma, charisma is probably different in that it is not the same for everyone; everyone has their own. But the movement, a certain playfulness, the position of the hand, foot, nose... I think they have a magical situation. This is important, and it's wonderful; it's a huge help."