Category: Rhythmic Gynmastics

Rhythmic Gynmast in Focus: Viktoria Bogdanova

Any fan of rhythmic gymnastics knows and admires the stars of the sport, more often than not they are the incredible Russian superstars, however there are too many gymnasts who go unnoticed in the sport. Every gymnast regardless of where they are from, work incredibly hard for the most elegant sport in the world. Regardless of their placing at competitions, they appreciate and love encouragement and support, with every perfect performance comes an apparatus drop or point deduction and every gymnast needs a fan and friend to lean on and offer and give the wise and encouraging words. It might not be one of the powerhouses of rhythmic gymnastics but Estonia has been graced with an incredible talent in Viktoria Bogdanova.

I’m proud to be able to say I can call Viktoria Bogdanova a good friend of mine. I had the please of first communicating with her in 2013, Viktoria would have to be one of the most considerate, humble, thoughtful and kind individuals I’ve gotten to know. Her dedication and commitment to rhythmic gymnastics is outstanding. Countless hours of trainings alongside her twin sister and travelling to meets and competition never went unnoticed.

Viktoria started rhythmic gymnastics in 1999 at the age of 5, she trained with her twin sister Olga. She trains at GC Piruett in Tallinn Estonia. Viktoria joined the Estonian national senior team in 2010 and ever since has been a corner stone of the Estonian gymnastics and many up and coming gymnasts look up to and admire Viktoria. Viktoria had to overcome adversity in 2015 as she succumbed to a leg injury which meant she missed the 2015 world cup which was only a speed bump and her passion for rhythmic gymnastics got her back on the carpets more determined than ever before. Viktoria stated her reason for taking up the sport as “”I can express and portray what I feel.” Olympic representation and competing is still the dream goal of Viktoria’s.

Outside of rhythmic gymnastics, Viktoria studied at University majoring in Physical Education however rhythmic gymnastics is flowing in her veins with Olga and her holding workshops and masterclasses for junior and up and coming gymnasts to learn and train long side them which is a gratifying and rewarding experience. They even host their own rhythmic gymnastics event in Vinni, Estonia which is taking place on the 6th and 7th October.

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Viktoria might not reach the highs and get the accolades on the world stage like the major names in rhythmic gymnastics but every time she steps onto the carpets, her smile is infectious and is ear to ear. Her fight and determination is inspiring and something that many look up to her because of. Every time she steps onto the carpet, she does it with poise, grace and elegance.

Instagram: Olga and Viktoria

Facebook: OlgaViktoriaBogdanova

Q&A With Finnish Rhythmic Gymnast Julia Laine

I recently had the opportunity to ask my friend Julia Laine about her time as a rhythmic gymnast in Finland. Recently she retired from competition but now is a coach training the next generation of excellent gymnasts. Julia is an incredible gymnast and a wonderful person.

Facebook Page: Julia Laine

Instagram: julialainegymnast

Q1: When did you start Rhythmic Gymnastics?

I started rhythmic gymnastics when I was 4 year old

Q2: How did you first get involved with rhythmic gymnastics?

My mom brought me to a test day

Q3: How often do you train and how long for?

I trained 9 times a week, for 2-4 hours

Q4: Favourite apparatus?

Ball and Clubs

Q5: Do you have a favourite memory whilst doing gymnastics?

Maybe having my own Finnish championship bronze medal and final ball silver, being in European Championships group.

Q6: Who inspires you in gymnastics?

Maybe when you succeed on competitions and hard work paid off

Q7: What is your ultimate goal in RG?

I didn’t have any ultimate goal, I dreamed of competing at the Olympics but I never had the opportunity to work for it, I watched where life carries me.

Q8: Do you have a specific routine or event result you were really proud of?

Finnish championships in junior category all around 3. And in finals with ball 2.

Q9: What do you like to do when you aren’t doing gymnastics (your free time)?

Being with the friends was the best way to spend free time, I also liked just lying in the cough and chill

Q10: Do you see yourself staying involved in RG for many years to come?

Even though I quit my own career, I hope I can continue as a coach all my life

Q&A With Nadya Vasina

I asked Nadya Vasina from Ukraine to tell me more about her time as a gymnast and performer.

https://www.instagram.com/nadya_vasina_show/

How long have done contortion for?

I never did contortion I just do what I can, Still maintain flexibility from when I did gymnastics

How did you start contortion?

I started sports at three years old and still it’s part of my life

How often do you train and for how long?

I practice when I need to perform or before the photoshoots, new projects, tv shows and etc, usually I warm-up and practice when I feel that I need it and as long as I feel comfortable yo do it

What is your favourite contortion move/trick?

Don’t have anything favorite. Favorite is to enjoy myself during the practices or performances

What has been your best contortion experience?

Every new project is a good experience for me

What is your ultimate contortion goal/dream?

I want to make Ukraine one of the most famous countries in the world

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Nadya Vasina