GymCastic: The Gymnastics Podcast

Episoder

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  The Robbery & The Ongoing Romanian Soap Opera: European Championships 2026 18.08.2026 1t 15min

  How "Russia" reclaimed its title to become European champion. We break down Angelina Melnikova's return, the Russian visa drama, Sabrina Voinea's D-score inquiry saga, a controversial beam-final robbery and what these results mean for the upcoming World Championships. GYMCASTIC LIVE REPLAY Watch our U.S. Championships live show with surprise guest Shannon Miller. Replay tickets: https://gymcastic.com/gymcastic-live-at-the-2026-u-s-championships/ HEADLINES Team "World Gymnastics 2," aka Russia, topped the medal table with six medals. Angelina Melnikova led the team with three golds in the team, all-around and vault competitions, plus bronze medals on beam and floor. Italy finished second in the medal standings, led by European floor champion Manila Esposito. France placed third, with first-year senior Elena Colas winning beam gold and finishing second in the individual medal count. We discuss: Sabrina Voinea's latest D-score inquiry saga and how an inquiry dropped her beam score by three tenths, knocking her out of the final Russia's triumphant return and what its team score could foreshadow for Worlds Melnikova's five-medal performance and how her all-around score compares internationally Elena Colas' breakout senior European Championships Why holding apparatus finals before the team final produced mixed results Why Pauline Schäfer-Betz was robbed of a beam medal Great Britain missing the medals after Becky Downie was replaced by Ruby Evans in the team-final bars lineup Memorable skills from Estella Volkoff, Morgane Osyssek and Schäfer-Betz Event-final victories for Melnikova, Helen Kevric, Colas and Esposito The teams and individuals who qualified for the 2026 World Championships CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:36 Sabrina Voinea's inquiry saga 04:03 U.S. national team and vault clarifications 06:33 European Championships medal table 13:48 Angelina Melnikova and Elena Colas 21:31 GymCastic updates and Club Gym Nerd 25:01 Pauline Schäfer-Betz beam robbery 30:43 Manila Esposito 33:04 Unique beam mounts and skills 35:46 Helen Kevric and the bars final 38:09 Apparatus finals before the team final? 40:19 Huel 41:37 Competition-format discussion continues 50:47 Team final: Russia, Italy and France 57:13 All-around results and Worlds comparisons 59:12 Vault final 1:04:02 Bars final 1:05:45 Beam and floor finals 1:10:32 World Championships qualifiers SPONSOR Limited-time offer: Make healthy eating simple with Huel. New customers receive 15% off online with code GYMCASTIC at https://huel.com/GYMCASTIC. Thank you to Huel for partnering with and supporting our show. LINKS European Championships results: https://results.smartscoring.com/live-results/7bbd2dc9-ea89-49c4-84a2-5009458acca0/live AD FREE & BONUS EPISODES Join Club Gym Nerd for ad-free podcasts, weekly Behind the Scenes episodes, our members-only archive, games, forums and live-show discounts: https://gymcastic.com/club/ Add Club bonus and ad-free episodes to your podcast player: https://gymcastic.com/community/postid/89/ LA 2028 Roster Lab: https://gymcastic.com/2028-roster-lab/ Elite Score Explorer: https://gymcastic.com/elite-scores/ Gymnastics Calendar: https://gymcastic.com/gymnastics-calendar/ GymCastic Games: https://gymcastic.com/games/ Newsletters: https://gymcastic.com/gymcastic-newsletters/ Shop GymCastic: https://store.gymcastic.com/
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  Back from U.S. Championships: Hezly Rivera, Fred Richard & Worlds Teams 13.08.2026 33min

  We're back from the 2026 U.S. Gymnastics Championships! Hezly Rivera is a two-time national all-around champion, Fred Richard won the men's title, the U.S. men's World Championships team is set, and we have plenty to say about the women's road to Worlds and those domestic execution scores. Plus, Shannon Miller surprised us at our Phoenix live show, Euros began with breaking news, and Suni Lee, Shilese Jones and Jordan Chiles all have comeback updates. LIVE SHOW REPLAY Missed our U.S. Championships live show with a surprise appearance from Shannon Miller? Get live show replay tickets. IN THIS EPISODE Hezly Rivera wins her second consecutive U.S. all-around title. Claire Pease takes silver and Charleigh Bullock bronze after both go 8-for-8. Event champions: Jade Carey (vault), Claire Pease (bars), Hezly Rivera (beam) and Reese Esponda (floor). We revisit Chellsie Memmel's comments about realistic domestic scoring. Thirteen senior women are named to the national team and we break down the Worlds selection procedure. The U.S. men's World team is Richard, Wiskus, Leykin, Nelson and Hoopes, with Moldauer as traveling alternate and Kim as non-traveling alternate. Fred Richard's pajama deduction, Salute-Gate and the comeback status of Suni Lee, Shilese Jones and Jordan Chiles. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Breaking Euros News & U.S. Champs Recap 05:11 – Live Show Replay: Shannon Miller & Fiesty Judges 07:41 – Hezly Rivera Wins U.S. Title 14:26 – Event Champions: Carey, Pease, Rivera & Esponda 21:34 – National Team & Who's Moving Forward 24:21 – Women's Worlds Selection 26:39 – Men's World Team & Salute-Gate 30:25 – Suni Lee, Shilese Jones & Jordan Chiles RELATED:  All podcasts and photo galleries from 2026 Championships here European Championships Results 148: Shannon Miller Shannon discusses It's Not About Perfect, her career, compulsories, coaching, cancer and life after gymnastics. 168: Shannon Miller, Belarusgate, NED vs GB Shannon returns to discuss body commentary, adult gymnastics, Worlds, Chusovitina and more. SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd – Get ad-free podcasts, Behind The Scenes, our bonus archive, games, score tools, members-only community and live-show discounts. GymCastic Merch GYMCASTIC TOOLS LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games Newsletters  
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  Men's Final from the 2026 U.S. Gymnastics Championships 08.08.2026 19min

  The men's national champion has been crowned and more from women's at the 2026 U.S. Championships! This is our live post-meetQ&A show. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here) Join Club Gym Nerd for the ad-free extended episode, live Q&A and complete members-only archive. GYMCASTIC LIVE AT U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL LIVE-SHOW TICKETS WHEN: Sunday, August 9 after the Senior Women's Final podium ceremony at approximately 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Stream it online or join us in person at the Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, directly across the street from the arena. WHAT: It's the post-meet debrief -enjoy a cash bar/snacks and games while Jessica and Spencer will discuss the meet immediately after it happens, and you never know who will appear at a GymCastic live show. Doors open at 5:30 p.m, show at approximately 6:00 p.m. In-person and virtual tickets are available. A limited-time replay will be available to virtual ticket holders.GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS LIVE-SHOW TICKETS CHAPTERS   Members Only begins Not a member? Join here.HOW TO FOLLOW U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 — MEN'S DAY TWO 10:30 a.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 4:30 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~8:00 p.m. — Senior Men's Final Meet Report SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 — WOMEN'S DAY TWO 10:00 a.m. — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 3:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock / NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube LIVE SHOW ~6:00 p.m. — get tickets now GymCastic Live: Senior Women's Final Build your U.S. Championships team at GymCastic Fantasy League.  SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Ad-free podcasts, weekly live Q&A episodes, bonus content, complete archive, games, scoring tools, VIP forum and live-show discounts Shop GymCastic TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters
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  Skye Blakely & Claire Pease Lead, Judging Controversy | 2026 U.S. Championships 08.08.2026 18min

  The scoes were crazy during women'sn day one at the 2026 U.S. Championships! This is our live post-meetQ&A show. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here) Join Club Gym Nerd for the ad-free extended episode, live Q&A and complete members-only archive. GYMCASTIC LIVE AT U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL LIVE-SHOW TICKETS WHEN: Sunday, August 9 after the Senior Women's Final podium ceremony at approximately 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Stream it online or join us in person at the Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, directly across the street from the arena. WHAT: It's the post-meet debrief -enjoy a cash bar/snacks and games while Jessica and Spencer will discuss the meet immediately after it happens, and you never know who will appear at a GymCastic live show. Doors open at 5:30 p.m, show at approximately 6:00 p.m. In-person and virtual tickets are available. A limited-time replay will be available to virtual ticket holders.GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS LIVE-SHOW TICKETS CHAPTERS 00:00 – Women's Day One: Skye Blakely & Claire Pease Lead 03:00 – Judging Problems, Fred Richard & Salute-Gate 07:42 – WAG Scoring: Hezly Rivera, Reese Esponda & Vault Scores 09:28 – Chellsie Memmel on Judging Accuracy & Realistic Scores 12:14 – Dulcy Caylor, Charleigh Bullock & Skye Blakely Members Only begins Not a member? Join here.18:26 – Coach Goes Off About Men's Judging 24:39 – Claire Pease, Worlds Team Math & Reese Esponda 31:05 – The Great 14.2 Vault Scoring Debate 36:14 – Jayla Hang's Return & Championships Observations 44:21 – Juniors, Vivi Crain & Athlete Safety 48:25 – Listener Questions: Vaults, Caroline Moreau & Elite Season 58:00 – Jade Carey's Competitive Drive & Oklahoma Men HOW TO FOLLOW U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 — WOMEN'S DAY ONE Noon — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 7:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~10:00 p.m. — Senior Women's Day One Meet Report SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 — MEN'S DAY TWO 10:30 a.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 4:30 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~8:00 p.m. — Senior Men's Final Meet Report SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 — WOMEN'S DAY TWO 10:00 a.m. — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 3:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock / NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube LIVE SHOW ~6:00 p.m. — get tickets now GymCastic Live: Senior Women's Final Build your U.S. Championships team at GymCastic Fantasy League.  SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Ad-free podcasts, weekly live Q&A episodes, bonus content, complete archive, games, scoring tools, VIP forum and live-show discounts Shop GymCastic TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters
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  2026 U.S. Championships Preview 04.08.2026 41min

  It's elite national championships week. Let's break it down. Join Club Gym Nerd for the ad-free extended episode, live Q&A podcasts all week and complete members-only archive. GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS LIVE-SHOW TICKETS HOW TO FOLLOW U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS Times are Phoenix local time/Pacific. Podcast times are estimates. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5 — PODIUM TRAINING Watch on FlipNow.TV; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube. 9:00–11:00 a.m. — Junior Men 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. — Senior Men 2:30–5:00 p.m. — Junior Women 5:00–7:30 p.m. — Senior Women PODCAST ~8:30 p.m. — Senior Women's Podium Training Report THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 — MEN'S DAY ONE 1:00 p.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 7:00 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock /NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 — WOMEN'S DAY ONE Noon — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 7:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~10:00 p.m. — Senior Women's Day One Meet Report SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 — MEN'S DAY TWO 10:30 a.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 4:30 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~8:00 p.m. — Senior Men's Final Meet Report SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 — WOMEN'S DAY TWO 10:00 a.m. — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 3:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock / NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube LIVE SHOW ~6:00 p.m. — get tickets now GymCastic Live: Senior Women's Final PLAY THE FANTASY GAME Build your U.S. Championships team at GymCastic Fantasy League. Use the Elite Score Explorer to compare gymnasts and choose your lineup. SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Ad-free podcasts, weekly live Q&A episodes, bonus content, complete archive, games, scoring tools, VIP forum and live-show discounts Shop GymCastic Limited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with our code GYMCASTIC at huel.com/GYMCASTIC. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation Gymnastics History Resistance Resources Cover art and photographs © GymCastic / Steve Cooper. All rights reserved.
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  2026 U.S. Championships Podium Training Report 03.08.2026 20min

  Let's dissect every moment from podium training at the 2026 U.S. Championships! This is our live post-training Q&A show.  Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). Join Club Gym Nerd for the full, ad-free extended episode, live Q&A and complete members-only archive. GYMCASTIC LIVE AT U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL LIVE-SHOW TICKETS WHEN: Sunday, August 9 after the Senior Women's Final podium ceremony at approximately 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Stream it online or join us in person at the Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Downtown, directly across the street from the arena. WHAT: It's the post-meet debrief -enjoy a cash bar/snacks and games while Jessica and Spencer will discuss the meet immediately after it happens, and you never know who will appear at a GymCastic live show. Doors open at 5:30 p.m, show at approximately 6:00 p.m. In-person and virtual tickets are available. A limited-time replay will be available to virtual ticket holders.GET IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS LIVE-SHOW TICKETS HOW TO FOLLOW U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5 — PODIUM TRAINING Watch on FlipNow.TV; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube. 9:00–11:00 a.m. — Junior Men 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. — Senior Men 2:30–5:00 p.m. — Junior Women 5:00–7:30 p.m. — Senior Women PODCAST ~8:30 p.m. — Senior Women's Podium Training Report THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 — MEN'S DAY ONE 1:00 p.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 7:00 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock /NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 — WOMEN'S DAY ONE Noon — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 7:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~10:00 p.m. — Senior Women's Day One Meet Report SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 — MEN'S DAY TWO 10:30 a.m. — Junior Men on USAG YouTube 4:30 p.m. — Senior Men on Peacock/NBC ; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube PODCAST ~8:00 p.m. — Senior Men's Final Meet Report SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 — WOMEN'S DAY TWO 10:00 a.m. — Junior Women on USAG YouTube 3:00 p.m. — Senior Women on Peacock / NBC; outside the U.S. on USAG YouTube LIVE SHOW ~6:00 p.m. — get tickets now GymCastic Live: Senior Women's Final Build your U.S. Championships team at GymCastic Fantasy League.  SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Ad-free podcasts, weekly live Q&A episodes, bonus content, complete archive, games, scoring tools, VIP forum and live-show discounts Shop GymCastic TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters
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  Ellie Black's Historic Double + World-Elites-Go-to-College Fantasy Draft 28.07.2026 1t 28min

  ON SALE NOW: GymCastic LIVE at U.S. Championships in Phoenix WHEN: Sunday, Aug 9th after the women's final podium ceremony at 6pm-ish WHERE: Streaming online or Phoenix, AZ WHAT: It's the post-meet after party (with a bar and snacks). We will discuss the meet immediately after it happens—and you never know who will appear at a GymCastic live show. HOW: Tickets on sale now. Club Gym Nerd members get your discount (check your email). Ellie Black (CAN) makes Commonwealth Games history as the first gymnast ever to win two Commonwealth all-around titles. We discuss the competition highlights, Gabriel Langton's frightening high bar fall, the shakeup at World Gymnastics (FIG), gymternet news and which NCAA teams would best suit today's international elite stars. COMMONWEALTH GAMES Ellie Black (CAN) wins her second Commonwealth all-around title Breanna Scott (AUS) takes silver and Lia-Monica Fontaine (CAN) wins bronze Australia wins the women's team title ahead of Canada and England Kate McDonald (AUS) wins bars gold Canada wins the men's team title Reuben Ward (SCO) delivers a home all-around victory for Scotland Watch in the United States on beIN Sports. See the full gymnastics results. MINI COMMISSION: INTERNATIONAL ELITES GO TO COLLEGE We match Rebeca Andrade (BRA), Kaylia Nemour (ALG), Mélanie de Jesus dos Santos (FRA), Kishi Rina (JPN), Manila Esposito (ITA), Flávia Saraiva (BRA), Eythora Thorsdottir (NED), Ellie Black (CAN) and other international stars with their ideal NCAA programs. Want your own mini commission? Join Club Gym Nerd at the World Champion level. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Ellie Black Makes History and Phoenix Schedule 01:37 – Gabriel Langton's High Bar Fall 04:00 – Nicolas Buompane out in World Gymnastics Shakeup 07:18 – Ellie Black's Historic Commonwealth Double 10:05 – Commonwealth Women's Team Final 15:21 – Club Gym Nerd and GymCastic Tools 18:54 – Women's All-Around Final 30:29 – Apparatus Finals and Opportunities for Comedy 40:34 – Canada and Scotland's Historic Men's Victories 45:38 – Rage-O-Meter: Commentary About Chinese Gymnasts 46:54 – Gymternet News and Romanian Safeguarding 54:02 – Nicola Bartolini Retires 55:54 – World Gymnastics Keeps Its Russian Policy 57:15 – Magnificent Seven and Phoenix Live Show 1:00:07 – Mini Commission: International Elites Go to College 1:28:16 – Club Gym Nerd and Behind The Scenes SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Ad-free podcasts, weekly live Q&A episodes, bonus content, the complete members-only archive, games, forum access and live-show discounts Shop GymCastic TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation Gymnastics History Resistance Resources Cover art and photograph © GymCastic / Steve Cooper. All rights reserved.
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  2026 U.S. Classic Debrief: Esponda, Ohashi's Next Move and the Worlds Picture 22.07.2026 1t 21min

  HEADLINES Nadia Comăneci says Ana Barbosu's legal fees in the fight to retain her Paris 2024 bronze medal will be covered. U.S. CLASSIC MORNING-AFTER COFFEE KLATSCH Reese Esponda Wins the U.S. Classic All-Around Esponda improved her top all-around score by nearly a full point, finished almost a point ahead of Jade Carey and entered the conversation for a World Championships team spot. Full U.S. Classic results and video of every routine Katelyn Ohashi Returns to Elite Gymnastics Ohashi made her triumphant return to elite gymnastics for the first time since 2013—and competed in her first senior U.S. Classic. Is Skye Blakely the All-Around Favorite for Nationals? MINI COMMISSION: EFFICIENT ROUTINE CONSTRUCTION: request for smart routine construction for Dulcy Caylor and Kaylia Nemour World Championships Qualifiers China, Japan, South Korea and North Korea qualified teams to Rotterdam. Amanda Yap of Singapore earned an individual Worlds spot. The Uzbekistani and Filipino men missed Worlds qualification despite outscoring the United States and Brazil, which did qualify. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Ana Barbosu's Legal Fees 06:51 – U.S. Classic Debrief 12:55 – Reese Esponda's Worlds Case 21:25 – Katelyn Ohashi's Next Move 27:07 – Skye Blakely and Jade Carey 36:39 – Who We're Worried About 43:36 – U.S. International Standing 48:20 – Gymternet News 54:00 – Efficient Routine Construction 1:13:03 – Commonwealth Games and Worlds Qualifiers RELATED EPISODES Behind the Scenes: U.S. Classic 2026 Meet Report  Behind the Scenes: Podium Training Report—U.S. Classic 2026 Behind the Scenes: Ohashi Is Back with Scott Bregman UP NEXT Behind the Scenes, our live Q&A podcast, Fridays at noon Pacific. SUPPORT OUR WORK Join Club Gym Nerd for weekly Behind the Scenes episodes, our complete members-only archive, games, the forum and live-show discounts. Shop GymCastic merchandise. Thanks to our sponsor Huel -our exclusive offer of 15% OFF with our code GYMCASTIC at huel.com/GYMCASTIC. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! GYMCASTIC TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History: Uncle Tim's gymnastics history and Code of Points archive Resistance Resources Cover art photos of Skye Blakely, Jade Carey and Reese Esponda © GymCastic/Steve Cooper. All rights reserved. Katelyn Ohashi cover-art photo © Melissa J. Perenson/Cal Sport Media.
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  Behind the Scenes: U.S. Classic 2026 Meet Report, Reese Esponda Wins, Ohashi Returns & Skye Blakely Shines 19.07.2026 24min

  Our immediate reactions right after the meet!   Everything from the 2026 U.S. Classic, including Reese Esponda's all-around victory, Katelyn Ohashi's return to elite competition, Skye Blakely's event titles, Jade Carey's upgrades, Nationals qualification, the biggest breakout performances, and historic gay TV moment.  We also discuss NBC's broadcast, routine construction, Nationals qualifying procedures, and answer Club Gym Nerd questions. This is our live Q&A show, where we answer your questions. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). For the extended episode  log in, refresh this page and the extended player for Club Members will appear below. Not a member? Join here. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Historic Moment in Gay Gymnastics History 01:31 – Jade Carey Takes the Long View 03:11 – Reese Esponda's Bars, Beam and Winning Floor 05:41 – Katelyn Ohashi's Successful Elite Return 06:23 – Ohashi's Beam Inquiry and Qualification Score 08:45 – The Meet's Real Winner: Smart Routine Construction 10:09 – Why Ohashi's Comeback Is Already a Huge Success 13:07 – Could Ohashi Be Invited to Nationals? 15:53 – Skye Blakely Wins Bars and Beam 16:42 – Ally Damelio's Seitz 17:20 – Were the U.S. Classic Scores Too Generous? 19:12 – Leanne Wong's Smarter Beam Composition 22:53 – BONUS FOR CLUB MEMBERS BEGINS To listen to the full episode login or join Club Gym Nerd for the extended Behind The Scenes episode every Friday: https://gymcastic.com/club/ 23:53 – Why Katelyn Ohashi and Laurie Hernandez + Jade Made Jessica Cry 26:48 – Breakout Stars: Zoey Molomo and Isabella Anzola 31:50 – Building a World Team From the U.S. Classic 33:31 – How to Watch Peacock and the International Feed Together 34:29 – Jade Carey's Full-Twisting Double Layout Technique 36:50 – Do World Team Members Have to Be Top-Five All-Arounders? 37:10 – Should Jade Carey Increase Her Bars Difficulty? 42:02 – Charleigh Bullock's Compelling Bars Score 42:28 – Izzy Stassi's Elite Potential at Oklahoma 44:30 – Is the U.S. Currently a World-Gold Team? 45:32 – Tom Forster and the Selection Committee 49:10 – Why USAG Needs a Single-Event Qualifying Score 51:02 – Suni Lee and the Case for Specialist Qualification 52:25 – Should Katelyn Ohashi Petition to Nationals? 1:00:35 – Gymnasts Still Planning Elite Comebacks 1:03:12 – Shilese Jones' Comeback Status 1:03:30 – The Broadcast's Skye Blakely Resilience Narrative 1:08:48 – The Absurdity of Mandatory "Dry Seasons" 1:09:49 – What Does "No Partying" Actually Mean? 1:10:14 – Jessica Disappears to Dance in the Street 1:10:57 – Is LSU's Injury Management a Problem? SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Club Gym Nerd for weekly Behind the Scenes episodes, our complete members-only archive, games, the forum and live-show discounts. Shop GymCastic: Shop merch. GYMCASTIC TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES GymCastic tools: LA 2028 Roster Lab, Elite Score Explorer and the International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History: Gymnastics history and Code of Points archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources  
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  Behind The Scenes: Suni Lee is back! US Classic Podium Training & Hot Mic Moments 17.07.2026 24min

  Recorded immediately after Senior Women's podium training at the U.S. Classic. Suni Lee officially announced her comeback documentary, Katelyn Ohashi unveiled upgrades ahead of the U.S. Classic, Jade Carey looked every bit the World Team favorite, and Spencer and Jessica break down everything they saw during senior women's podium training. Plus: behind-the-scenes stories, hot mic moments, start values, fantasy picks, and an extended Club Gym Nerd Q&A.  For the full episode login or join Club Gym Nerd. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). Not a member? Join here. Before competition begins, build your team for the 2026 U.S. Classic Fantasy Game. Lineups lock Saturday at 6:45 p.m. Eastern. CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome, Hot Mics & US Classic Podium Training 00:52 Suni Lee Officially Announces Her Comeback 03:08 Should Single Event Specialists Have a Pathway to Championships? 06:28 Katelyn Ohashi's Upgraded Floor Routine 10:00 Katelyn Ohashi's Beam Changes & Strategy 14:00 Lost Luggage, AARP & Elite Warm-Up Rituals 15:10 Skye Blakely's Beam Upgrade 17:22 Leanne Wong's New Beam Composition 21:15 Beam Connection Bonus Explained 21:56 More Leanne Wong Routine Nerding 23:01 Fantasy Game, Elite Score Explorer & Roster Lab Updates 24:55 Store Sale, Referral Program & Bluesky Groups BONUS FOR CLUB MEMBERS BEGINS To listen to the full episode login or join Club Gym Nerd for the extended Behind The Scenes episode every Friday: https://gymcastic.com/club/ 25:00 Beam Bonus Bungle Story 26:28 Final Thoughts on Leanne's Beam 28:59 Jade Carey Wins Podium Training 30:02 Jade's Upgrades & Event-by-Event Review 31:55 Izzy Stasi's Oklahoma Era & New Choreography 34:10 Zoe Molomo, Simone Rose & Dulcy Caylor Notes 36:45 Comedy Awards, Hot Mic Moments & Withdrawals 37:08 Club Gym Nerd Q&A Begins 38:00 Single-Event Qualification to Nationals Debate 43:02 Should Nationals Matter More Than Worlds Selection? 50:58 Who Was Terrible at Compulsories? 53:31 The Most Memorable Compulsory Disasters 56:40 Are Olympic Comebacks About Passion or Business? 01:01:39 Spencer's Dream Suni Lee Bars Routine 01:05:08 The Perfect Acting Role for Laurie Hernandez 01:05:58 Is Elite Gymnastics Inherently Bad for Kids? 01:08:43 Can You Reach Elite Without Early Specialization? SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Club Gym Nerd for weekly Behind the Scenes episodes, our complete members-only archive, games, the forum and live-show discounts. Shop GymCastic: Shop merch. GYMCASTIC TOOLS, GAMES AND RESOURCES GymCastic tools: LA 2028 Roster Lab, Elite Score Explorer and the International Gymnastics Calendar GymCastic Games GymCastic Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History: Gymnastics history and Code of Points archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources    
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  US Classic Preview: Katelyn Ohashi, Skye Blakely & Qatar is Shopping For Gymnasts 14.07.2026 51min

  Hear from the Ohashi and Skye themselves while we preview the 2026 U.S. Classic and break down every major storyline heading into one of the most important meets of the elite season. This week we discuss: • Katelyn Ohashi's return to elite gymnastics at age 29 and what she needs to qualify for U.S. Championships • Skye Blakely's first elite all-around competition since 2024 • Jade Carey's return after nearly a year away from competition • Leanne Wong's first meet since winning World all-around silver • Reese Esponda, Dulcy Caylor, Charleigh Bullock, Simone Rose and other gymnasts to watch • Laurie Hernandez's official official coming out • Shilese Jones calls out USA Gymnastics leadership • Romania updates • Tiana Sumanasekera will represent Sri Lanka • Qatar's recruiting of young French gymnasts • NCAA eligibility changes • World Championships qualification updates HOW TO WATCH THE 2026 U.S. CLASSIC Friday, July 17 -Senior Women's Podium Training – 2:00 p.m. ET on FlipNow Saturday, July 18 - Jr– 2:00 p.m. ET, Senior Women – 7:00 p.m. ET on Peacock/NBC GYMCASTIC LIVE FROM CLASSIC IN HARTFORD Friday after podium training (approximately 4:30 p.m. ET) Saturday after the senior women's competition (approximately 9:30 p.m. ET) Play the 2026 U.S. Classic Fantasy Game SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: - https://gymcastic.com/club/ Shop GymCastic Merch: - https://store.gymcastic.com/ CHAPTERS 04:35 U.S. Classic: Qualification Scores & What's at Stake 06:26 Katelyn Ohashi's Elite Comeback 13:13 Should There Be an Ohashi Wild Card? 17:22 Skye Blakely on vault plan and Nemour 20:37 Leanne Wong Revenge  Era 23:23 Jade Carey's Return Plan 26:46 Who to watch at U.S. Classic 31:04 Gymternet News 31:22 Laurie Hernandez Officially Comes Out 34:34 The "Unfinished Business" Comeback Narrative 37:48 Romania Drama Update 40:14 Philippines Federation & Levi Jung-Ruivivar 43:56 Qatar Recruiting French Gymnasts 46:19 Doping Ban & Coach Arrest 47:20 Russia, Belarus & Olympic Eligibility 49:06 Shilese Jones Speaks Out About USA Gymnastics 49:40 NCAA Adopts New Eligibility Rules GYMCASTIC TOOLS LA 2028 Roster Lab Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar Games Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation Gymnastics History & Code of Points Archive Resistance Resources
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  Becky Downie: Paris, Trauma, Fibroids & Changing British Gymnastics 07.07.2026 1t 17min

  Three-time Olympian Becky Downie is here and opens up about the difficult years between Tokyo and Paris, why she never officially retired after the Olympics, recovering from multiple surgeries and two Achilles ruptures, competing without a permanent gym or coach, and why she believes British Gymnastics has finally begun to change. We also discuss the future of uneven bars, athlete autonomy, trauma-informed coaching, and the equipment issue Becky says is holding back bar specialists around the world. CHAPTERS 00:00 Cold Open – "I Wasn't a Functioning Human" 00:25 Introduction: Becky Downie's Journey to Paris 05:27 Life After Paris: Retirement, Fibroids & Starting Again 08:08 Discovering the Fibroids That Changed Everything 14:42 Dating, Family & Wanting Children 15:27 Paris Olympics: New Coaches, New Team Dynamic 20:00 Trauma, Lilleshall & Recovering After Tokyo 31:19 Learning to Heal & Process Trauma 37:39 Training Without a Coach or Gym 40:12 Why LA 2028 Is Still the Goal 44:07 Sponsor: Huel 45:37 Body Maintenance, Strength Training & Supplements 51:30 Has British Gymnastics Really Changed? 54:22 Equipment Injustice: The Uneven Bars Problem 57:03 Why Gymnova Bars Need to Change 01:01:08 Two Achilles Ruptures & Learning to Trust Your Body 01:08:25 Athlete Autonomy & Speaking Up 01:11:17 Athlete Representation & The Future 01:12:34 The Book Becky Wants to Write 01:15:33 Looking Ahead to LA 2028 01:15:43 Update: Coach, New Gym & Commonwealth Games Decision GET MORE FROM GYMCASTIC Join Club Gym Nerd for weekly Behind the Scenes episodes, extended interviews, live Q&As, exclusive commissions, our members-only forum, fantasy gymnastics, and more: https://gymcastic.com/club/ Elite Score Explorer: https://gymcastic.com/elite-scores/ Roster Lab: https://gymcastic.com/2028-roster-lab/ Gymnastics Calendar: https://gymcastic.com/gymnastics-calendar/ Live Shows: https://gymcastic.com/live-shows/ GymCastic Store: https://store.gymcastic.com/ Newsletter: https://gymcastic.com/ Becky Downie Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJwVDDnyD6Ig OUR SPONSOR: HUEL Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with our exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with code GYMCASTIC at huel.com/GYMCASTIC. New customers only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show. SUPPORT GYMCASTIC Club Gym Nerd members get our weekly Behind the Scenes podcast every Friday, extended interviews, live Q&As, discounts on live shows, fantasy gymnastics, games, and our members-only forum. Refer a friend to Club Gym Nerd! Once they sign up, email customerservice@gymcastic.com with "Referral" in the subject line and you'll both receive a free month of membership. Everything is at GymCastic.com.
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  The History of Italian Gymnastics: From Circus Acrobatics to Olympic Champions 01.07.2026 1t 34min

  The History of Italian Gymnastics traces the remarkable rise of one of the world's most successful gymnastics nations—from Italy's early Olympic champions and circus acrobatics roots to the Vanessa Ferrari revolution and today's powerhouse led by Alice D'Amato and Manila Esposito. We explore the forgotten pioneers, iconic eponymous skills, the dominance of Jury Chechi on rings, the 2019 breakthrough World medal, the unforgettable Paris Olympics, and whether Italy has what it takes to defeat Team USA during the Los Angeles quad. Along the way we revisit Vanessa Ferrari's controversial Olympic floor finals, the MTV series that made Italian gymnasts celebrities, and the innovations that changed the Code of Points forever. CHAPTERS 00:00 The History of Italian Gymnastics 01:40 Why Italy Is a Gymnastics Superpower Today 06:40 Italy's First Olympic Champions & Circus Origins 12:58 Which Gymnastics Cities Would Win Olympic Gold? 17:05 Italy's First Women's Olympic Medal 19:00 Laura Micheli: The Lady of the Rings 23:05 The Rome Olympics at the Baths of Caracalla 26:26 The Sexism Era & Why Italy Stopped Winning 29:50 Jury Chechi & The Return of Italian Dominance 33:05 Italy's Most Innovative Skills 38:03 Italian Skills Still in the Code of Points 44:35 GymCastic Updates & Community News 46:16 The Ferrari Revolution Begins 50:34 Vanessa Ferrari Wins the 2006 World Title 56:10 Should Ferrari Have Medaled in 2012 & 2016? 01:01:00 Did Vanessa Ferrari Deserve Olympic Gold in Tokyo? 01:07:10 MTV's Italian Gymnastics Reality Show 01:14:35 The Next Generation: 2019 World Bronze 01:19:40 Nicola Bartolini & Italy's Men's Revival 01:22:48 Paris 2024: Team Silver & Beam Gold 01:28:59 Can Italy Beat Team USA? UP NEXT Behind The Scenes Fridays at noon Pacific (no BTS on July 4th but enjoy the entire archive!) SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now NEW! GymCastic Tools LA 2028 Roster Labj Elite Score Explorer International Gymnastics Calendar Games  Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources
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  Behind The Scenes: Ohashi Is Back! 27.06.2026 30min

  Welcome to Behind the Scenes! Every Friday, Club Gym Nerd members join us live for our unfiltered Q&A, breaking gymnastics news, behind-the-scenes stories, hot takes, and all the conversations that don't fit into the main show. This public episode is just a preview—the full conversation continues after 37:07 with our extended discussion, listener questions, NCAA rule changes, Asian Championships, the new GymCastic Roster Lab with special guest, Scott Bregman (Spencer is on vacation).  Support independent gymnastics journalism and unlock the full episode every week by joining Club Gym Nerd: https://gymcastic.com/club/  CHAPTERS 00:00 Katelyn Ohashi Is Back! 01:18 Why This Comeback Is Such a Big Deal 03:00 How Katelyn Ohashi Changed Gymnastics Coverage Forever 05:29 The Biggest Challenge Facing Her Return 08:01 Why Veteran Gymnasts Have an Advantage 10:35 Do Specialists Still Have a Chance? 13:06 Pan Am Dengue Fever & Why Team Depth Matters 13:55 Should NCAA Stars Represent Other Countries? 17:24 Can Ohashi (or Riley McCusker) Make Team USA? 19:42 NEW! GymCastic Roster Lab Preview 23:24 USA Championships Preview 26:12 Is FlipNow Worth It? 28:05 What Happened to USA Gymnastics Live Scores? 37:07  Behind the Scenes Continues for Club Gym Nerd Members NCAA's New Five-Year Eligibility Rule Explained How the Rule Changes Recruiting & Scholarships Will Fifth-Year Athletes Change College Gymnastics? Asian Championships & New World Qualifiers Home HPV Tests & Skipping Pap Smear a Cautionary Tale Fact Check: Riley McCusker & NCAA Bars Title Simone vs. Rebeca Vault Debate Are Back Walkovers Actually Bad for Your Back? Which NCAA & Elite Stars Could Return? More NCAA Comeback Predictions Listener Questions Disclosure Day Movie Debate WATCH Jade Carey and Ohashi at American Classic in Minnesota on USAG's FlipTv Rhythmic, Tumbling, Trampoline and Acro Championships (USA Gymnastics Championships) in Tulsa on USAG YouTube SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Gymnastics Games Suite Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources
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  Rebeca Andrade Returns, Pan Am Championships & World Qualifiers 23.06.2026 41min

  Rebeca Andrade is back—and people are confused...did she come out with her girlfriend or not? We break down Andrade's long-awaited return at the 2026 Pan American Championships, Claire Pease's all-around title, the controversial one-point vault run deduction that cost Charleigh Bullock gold, and why the mixed MAG/WAG competition format deserves a bigger stage. We also discuss the latest U.S. team injury updates, World Championship qualification, and how to get out of pap smears for life! This is the weekly Behind The Scenes Q&A show, where we answer your questions live. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). Tip: After logging in, refresh this page and the extended episode player will appear below. Not a member? Join here. CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome / Rebeca Andrade Returns 01:56 Monday Update: People are confused, did Andrade come out or not? 4:10 Event finals recap 06:15 Rebeca's comeback: Why she already looks ready for Worlds 11:14 Claire Pease wins the Pan American all-around title 12:34 Charleigh Bullock's controversial one-point vault deduction 15:35 Pan American Championships qualify teams to Worlds 22:03 U.S. injury updates: Hezly Rivera & Lila Richardson 26:13 Thais Fidelis, Hillary Heron & other Pan Am standouts 28:50 Men's World Championship qualifiers & Canada's historic finish 31:07 Mixed MAG/WAG competition: Should more meets use this format? 36:41 Why Rebeca Andrade was allowed to warm up floor 40:59 Members-only Behind the Scenes begins Club Gym Nerd Extended BTS - for the full episode Join here 40:59 Updated cervical cancer screening guidelines & HPV testing 44:23 Nastia's famous "butt shelf" beam choreography 50:38 Becoming a Gym Nerd: Listener story 52:06 Simone Biles inspires contemporary art 53:26 Should gymnastics allow lyrics in floor music? 1:00:00 Pokémon GO privacy & app permissions 1:02:22 Rebeca Andrade vs. Simone Biles: Who has the greatest Cheng? 1:09:15 Modern Pentathlon, obstacle racing & Olympic oddities 1:14:42 Resistance Corner SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Gymnastics Games Suite Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources  
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  The Pantheon of Gymnastics: The Greatest Routines of All Time (COMMISSION) 17.06.2026 1t 46min

  What are the greatest gymnastics routines ever performed? This commissioned episode takes on an impossible challenge: building the Pantheon of Gymnastics. Jessica and Spencer debate the most iconic vaults, bars routines, beam masterpieces, and floor exercises across every era—from Olesia Dudnik, Yang Bo, and Kim Gwang Suk to Simone Biles, Rebeca Andrade, Kaylia Nemour, and Sunisa Lee. Along the way they revisit the artistry of 1989 Worlds, the greatest NCAA floor routines ever performed, and the unforgettable performances that defined generations of gymnastics fans. REFERENCE VIDEOS Vanessa Atler's double-twisting Yurchenko from 1999 Mo Huilan's iconic typewriter floor routine from 1994 Produnova's tango floor routine with a freakin' double-arabian punch front!! Jesus Rivera proving why Cuba was at the forefront of artistry i Lashenova on why the Soviets weren't messing around with artistry Can you even bring pain of a nation if you don't have a sad violin? Natalia Frolova, Brooklyn Moors, and Leah Homma  CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction & Commission Brief 02:12 VAULT: Greatest Vaults Ever 07:16 Simone's YDP 09:29 Andrade's Cheng 10:56 The Amanar Debate 12:12 Best DTYs 15:27 Shannon Miller's Yurchenko Full 16:18 Greatest Rudis 17:38 Yang Yun's Flying Jesus Vault 18:13 Produnova, Yulo & Davtyan 23:11 BARS: Greatest Bars Routines Ever 25:47 Kim Gwang Suk 28:04 Amy Chow Appreciation 29:04 He Kexin's Beijing Masterpiece 32:06 Beth Tweddle 34:00 Mustafina 42:35 BEAM: Greatest Beam Routines Ever 42:42 Dudnik & Yang Bo 44:10 Li Li & Ke Qinqin 46:39 Gutsu & Lysenko 48:43 Kui Yuanyuan 50:30 Fan Ye 53:01 Soviet Beam Greats 56:04 Anna Pavlova 59:40 Komova & Flavia 01:03:07 Sanne Wevers 01:06:10 Zhou Yaqin & Zhang Qingying 01:09:01 Why Simone isn't the beam GOAT 01:11:12 FLOOR: Greatest Floor Routines Ever 01:11:29 Podkopayeva & Omelianchik 01:14:16 Dominique Moceanu 01:16:39 Mo Huilan's Typewriter Routine 01:17:01 Elena Produnova 01:18:03 Jesús Rivera 01:20:45 Céline van Gerner & Eythora 01:23:02 The Legendary 1989 Worlds Floor Session 01:30:17 Simone Biles 01:31:18 Vanessa Ferrari 01:33:22 Rebeca Andrade 01:33:56 Pain of a Nation: Greatest Choreography 01:38:21 Dobre, Filatova & Petrik 01:41:34 NCAA Floor Pantheon RELATED EPISODES 252: Myths, Legends and Unexpected Moments in Gymnastics History 258: The Fluff Cast 312: 4th Is the New 1st 313: Best Floor Routines EVAH! History's Best Beam Routines UP NEXT Behind The Scenes Fridays at noon Pacific  SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Resistance Resources
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  Elite Summer 2026: The New World Order 09.06.2026 1t 27min

  Elite summer is officially here and GymCastic is breaking down the state of the art in gymnastics heading into the 2026 season. We discuss Simone Biles revealing she "almost died," Melanie De Jesus Dos Santos' emotional return to competition in France, and the gymnasts currently setting the global standard on vault, bars, beam and floor. From Kaylia Nemour's historic bars work to Hezly Rivera leading the all-around rankings, we analyze what it actually takes to contend for World medals in 2026. Plus: French Nationals artistry deductions, NCAA news, and the latest gymternet controversies. SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Games  Podcast Tour Tickets Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources SHOW NOTES Simone Biles shared that she "almost died" in what she called one of the scariest experiences of her life. Melanie De Jesus Dos Santos returned to exhibition competition at French Nationals for the first time since the Paris Olympics, performing floor and discussing her recovery and renewal in Martinique. French Nationals introduced separately listed artistry deductions in live scoring — the future is now. Elena Colas won the French all-around title with a 54.250 and continues her rapid rise as one of the top new seniors in the world. We break down the current world leaders on every apparatus and discuss: • Why Kaylia Nemour is redefining bars • Why Hezly Rivera is currently the all-around world leader • What makes beam composition "state of the art" • Why vault scoring may be changing • What separates a 14 floor routine from a 13 in 2026 GYMTERNET NEWS • Utah gymnastics Ghana trip controversy discussion • NCAA age-rule proposal update • New proposed NIL restrictions in Congress • Texas abortion laws and athlete healthcare concerns • Sam Oldham's charity comeback routine • Jackson Harrison Achilles injury • Emma Slevin transfers to Arkansas • Coaching updates across NCAA • Gymnastics Australia concussion investigation CHAPTERS 00:00 Simone Biles' scary health news 01:21 Melanie De Jesus Dos Santos returns at French Nationals 08:30 French Nationals artistry deductions revolution 09:25 Elena Colas wins French Nationals 17:02 Elite Summer 2026 begins 18:08 All-Around World Leaders: Hezly Rivera vs Kaylia Nemour 27:12 Vault world leaders and why vaulting has changed 35:30 Bars: Why Kaylia Nemour is redefining gymnastics 49:05 Beam world leaders and Chinese beam excellence 1:02:02 Floor exercise: what makes a 14 in 2026? 1:10:18 Gymternet News 1:16:04 NCAA age rule proposal explained 1:19:08 New NIL bill and athlete pay debate 1:21:29 Texas abortion laws and athlete safety concerns 1:23:00 Sam Oldham's charity comeback routine 1:24:01 Jackson Harrison injury and Emma Slevin transfer 1:24:33 NCAA rules and laws limiting athlete income 1:25:58 Australia concussion investigation UP NEXT Behind The Scenes Fridays at noon Pacific  
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  The Rivalries We Never Got: How to Fix Gymnastics 02.06.2026 1t 38min

  Simone Biles and Rebeca Andrade are two of the greatest gymnasts in history. Yet they competed against each other just five times in nine years! In this episode, we tackle what may be gymnastics' biggest structural problem: the world's best athletes rarely get the chance to face each other. We propose a complete overhaul of the competition system, including world rankings, federation-free qualification pathways, athlete-controlled careers, an elite season, and fan-voted wild cards. We also explore how sports like tennis, the WNBA, and other professional leagues handle competition, athlete compensation, data rights, and fan engagement—and what gymnastics can learn from them. Plus, we discuss real-time scoring technology, VR and AR viewing experiences, digital-twin technology, and other innovations that could modernize the sport and make gymnastics easier to follow for fans around the world. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: Revolutionizing Gymnastics 01:01 – HEADLINES Texas State Adds D1 Gymnastics 03:13 – Canadian Championships & Ellie Black 07:07 – Koper Cup Chaos 14:04 – Behind The Scenes: Sharks, Dysentery & Club Gym Nerd 16:32 –  Gymternet News: Texas Coach Indicted, DA looking for suvivors 17:38 – Simone Biles Is Still 50/50 21:18 – Ukrainian Gymnastics Protest Campaign 22:23 – Denver's Achilles Injury Research 24:09 – Florida's Singapore Tour 25:35 – Nadia's 50-Year Perfect 10 Celebration 26:54 – Michigan Men Get a New Facility 27:28 – Gymnaestrada Comes to Las Vegas 28:59 – New Pakistan Gymnastics Documentary 30:25 – 1984 U.S. Men's Team Documentary 33:08 – Iranian Women Win Historic Medal 33:47 – Melanie & Rebeca Return Updates 34:25 – Revolutionizing Gymnastics: How We Fix The Sport 34:45 – The Problem: The Best Gymnasts Never Compete 37:19 – Simone vs Rebeca: Only 5 Times in 9 Years 39:17 – When World-Class Athletes Get Left Home 42:06 – Why Federations Have Too Much Power 47:02 – Borrowing the Tennis Model 50:34 – Rankings, Injuries & Athlete Autonomy 54:24 – Wild Cards System 56:26 – Fixing Judging with Technology 58:26 – Make Scores Understandable 01:01:12 – Real-Time Skill Tracking & Data Visualization 01:01:39 – AR, AI & Digital-Twin Technology 01:03:29 – VR Front-Row Seats for Every Fan 01:09:01 – Alternative Broadcasts & Fan Engagement 01:14:06 – How Gymnasts Should Actually Get Paid 01:16:39 – Athlete Unions, Data Rights & Ownership 01:22:40 – The WNBA Model for Athlete Bio Data 01:24:38 – Designing the Perfect Competition System 01:27:12 – Turning Olympic Viewers Into Real Fans 01:34:15 – Listener Question: Biles I vs Dos Santos  
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  Behind The Scenes: Spy Databases, Georgia's Power Move, Konnor McClain's Health Warning 26.05.2026 31min

  BONUS Welcome to Behind The Scenes: Secrets of The Podcast We are enjoying a well earned break this week. But we'd never leave you without the news. Here is a little bonus of our weekly Q&A show for Club Gym Nerd members, where we answer your questions live.  To listen or watch the full episode login here. Here's how to ask questions live. Can't make it live? Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). Not a member? Join here. GymCastic Live: Featuring Chae Campbell Replay tickets available → Get tickets here CHAPTERS 00:00 – Behind the Scenes Intro & Che Campbell Replay 01:28 – Georgia News: Laurent Landi Officially Joins Cecile 01:53 – Joscelyn Roberson Transfers to Georgia 05:02 – Which WCC Gymnast Could Follow to Georgia? 07:42 – Konnor McClain's Post-NCAA Season Health Update 11:47 – Chuso at Tashkent & World Gymnastics Score Problems 13:11 – Japan's Worlds Team Heartbreak 15:09 – Worlds Qualification Rules & Rotterdam Tickets 17:00 – U.S. Pan Ams Team Announced 19:06 – Claire Pease's Cheng: Real or Not Yet? 20:42 – GymCastic Updates: Games, Referrals & Merch Sale 22:52 – Liverpool Gets 2030 Worlds 23:21 – Melanie de Jesus dos Santos Returns 25:33 – Melnikova's U.S. Gym Tour 26:14 – Chinese Nationals Beam Queen News 27:35 – Kidney Transplant Update & Sam Oldham Spy Database Follow-Up 30:15 – Goodbye to Regular Listeners / Club Gym Nerd BTS Begins 31:24 – Jessica's Graduation Trip to Boston 32:47 – Tufts Graduation Week & Boston Pops 33:57 – Baccalaureate, Jumbos & Tufts Civic Duty 36:17 – AI as a Weapon & Graduation Speeches 38:22 – Plane Seat Hell & Back Row Bathroom Life 40:43 – The Overmedicated Seatmate 42:45 – Cape Cod, Jaws & Great White Shark Warnings 45:59 – Provincetown, Mayflower Money & Gayborhood History 47:04 – The Giant Ship Inside the Library 47:42 – Airbnb Disaster: Wet Dog Smell, Mold & Mineral Deposits 50:54 – Eurovision, Sweden & Body-Part Grammar 54:12 – New Zealand Gymnastics Jail Explained 56:36 – Can College Gymnasts Train Year-Round? 58:42 – What Happens to Competition Equipment? 60:00 – EVO Gymnastics, Men's Training Centers & Funding 62:40 – Does Florida's Elite Focus Hurt NCAA Titles? 64:20 – Why WAG Needs an EVO-Style Model 65:03 – Resistance News & Legal Wins 67:02 – Wrap-Up, Sam Oldham Extended Interview & Memorial Day Sign-Off RELATED Sam Oldham Interivew - Jpanese gymnastics spy network  Behind The Scenes - Fridays at noon pacific  SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Gymnastics Games Suite Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources Unlock the Episode Join Club Gym Nerd → Choose a plan Complete checkout — your site account is created. Log in here → /my-account/ Return to this page and refresh. The extended player appears automatically
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  Olympic Bronze Medalist Sam Oldham on Gymnastics Politics, Spies & Athlete Welfare 19.05.2026 1t 49min

  Olympic bronze medalist Sam Oldham joins Jessica for a conversation about his personal Japanese Gymnastics Spy, mental health, ADHD, grace and letting coaches learn rather than be cancelled, sports science failures, NCAA gymnastics, and life after the 2012 Summer Olympics. From injury prevention and athlete autonomy to judging politics and storytelling in gymnastics media, this episode dives deep into how the sport is changing — and where it still falls short.  Club Gym Nerd members, login for the extended version almost 2 hrs long. Add Club bonus episodes to your favorite podcast player (instructions here). Tip: After logging in, refresh the podcast page and the extended player will appear. Not a member? Join here. GymCastic Live: Featuring Chae CampbellReplay tickets available → Get tickets here SAM OLDHAM INTERVIEW British gymnastics legend Sam Oldham is here, and yes, we're going to talk about everything from winning Great Britain's historic (first in 100 years) bronze medal at the London Olympics that changed everything for British Gymnastics, to the chaos, comedy, and emotional whiplash of elite gymnastics life. Sam brings the rare combination of competition accolades, deep gym nerd-student credentials, and the kind of honesty about athlete culture that makes you gasp-laugh and then immediately need a therapy session. We discuss the pressure cooker of British Gymnastics, his friendship and love for his coach, surviving weight-obsessed culture he swore he would never succumb to, and being followed by a Japanese gymnastics spy! Login to reveal the extended version on the website. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro & Why Sam Oldham's Story Matters   02:15 – The Reality of Funding Men's Gymnastics   06:40 – Building Relationships That Save Careers   10:12 –  Live Show Replay & Club Gym Nerd Perks   16:11 – Sam Oldham on Coaching Wisdom & Sergei's Influence   22:45 – Why Gymnastics Breaks So Many Athletes   28:33 – Neurodiversity, Burnout & Life After Elite Sports   36:20 – The Pressure of Being "Perfect" as an Athlete   44:08 – Mental Health, Identity & Retirement from Gymnastics   52:14 – British Gymnastics Culture vs NCAA Energy   01:01:32 – Training Through Pain & Learning to Fuel Properly   01:08:45 – Eating Disorders, Fasting & Dangerous Training Culture   01:15:24 – Has Gymnastics Culture Actually Changed?   01:22:50 – Why Athletes Need Control of Their Own Narrative   01:30:57 – Speaking Out Against Harmful Coaching   01:33:44 – Cancel Culture, Grace & Learning in Coaching   01:40:10 – Why Storytelling Changes Gymnastics Culture   01:44:59 – The Japanese Gymnastics "Spy Network" Story   01:48:18 – FIG Studying NCAA Gymnastics & the Future of Pro Leagues   UP NEXT Behind The Scenes Fridays at noon Pacific (next one May 22nd) SUPPORT OUR WORK Club Gym Nerd: Join Here Merch: Shop Now Games Podcast Tour Tickets Newsletters The Balance Beam Situation: Spencer's GIF Code of Points Gymnastics History and Code of Points Archive from Uncle Tim Resistance Resources Thank you to this week's sponsor StoryWorth: Order right now and save up to $20 at STORYWORTH.com/gymcastic