When people think of great gymnastics, they think of Simone Biles. She has broken all records for Olympic and World Championship medals, showing that human athleticism can go beyond what we thought was possible. But calling Simone Biles “just a gymnast” ignores how much she has changed both her sport and the world around her. Here are five strong reasons why Simone Biles is more than just a gymnast.
1. A leader in the fight for mental health
Simone Biles put her mental health ahead of the pressure to compete at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which was one of the most powerful moments in Olympic history. Biles’ choice to take a step back and talk openly about her anxiety and the “twisties” started a worldwide conversation about how important it is to take care of your mental health. By putting her health first, she showed athletes and non-athletes alike how important it is to take care of their mental health and break the stigma around mental health issues.
2. Breaking down barriers and encouraging diversity
In a sport that hasn’t always been very diverse, Simone Biles is a great example of how to be yourself. As an African-American woman, her success goes against stereotypes and encourages many young athletes of color to follow their dreams in gymnastics and other sports. Biles speaks out against racism and for more inclusion and fairness in sports on her platform all the time. This makes her a role model for all aspiring gymnasts.
3. Support the empowerment of survivors
Biles is brave in more than just gymnastics. She has been a strong supporter of sexual abuse survivors, using her voice to call for change and accountability in USA Gymnastics and the sports community as a whole. She was brave to share her own story, which brought attention to the problem and helped make changes to the system that will protect athletes in the future.
4. Giving to charity and getting involved in the community
Simone Biles is very dedicated to helping others, even when she’s not in the spotlight. She often does volunteer work to help kids in foster care, which is important to her because she was adopted from foster care herself. She helps disadvantaged kids overcome challenges and reach their full potential through her Simone Biles Foundation and other programs that give them resources, mentorship, and support.
5. Businessperson and media star
Simone Biles has used her fame to create a brand that goes beyond gymnastics. She has become a successful businesswoman by signing endorsement deals with big brands and making her own leotard lines. Her charming presence on social media and in documentaries, TV shows, and commercials has made her a household name, which has increased her reach and influence even more.
Final Thoughts
Simone Biles’ legacy is not only her gravity-defying stunts or her record number of medals, but also her bravery, activism, and commitment to making a difference. She is a leader, a survivor, and a source of inspiration. There is no doubt that Simone Biles is more than just a gymnast. She is a person who will change the world and have an effect on people for generations to come.
