So 2016 is an Olympic year, meaning that gymnastics is going to be coming back into the spotlight before we know it! Last weekend was the Secret U.S. Classic, at the end of June is the P&G Championships and in the beginning of July is the U.S. Olympic Trials. Since most people have been out of the loop for the past few years, here is what you should get prepared for in the two months leading up to Rio!
1. The storylines.
You'll mostly hear about injuries (such as Maggie Nichols and Bailie Key) and deaths in the family (like John Orozco), which automatically make you root for these athletes even more than you already have.
2. The "rivalries."
I guarantee that Gabby Douglas and Simone Biles will be pitted against each other until the Olympics are over, but Simone herself stated the other day that the so called "rivalry" between them is fueled by the media alone. Yes, Gabby is a household name and very well-known, but I can promise you that Simone will soon be as well.
3. Parents.
Who can forget Aly Raisman's parents during London 2012? But honestly, I do the same thing when I watch gymnastics so you can't blame them.
4. Cringe-worthy commentary.
You'll have to wait and hear it for yourself honestly.
5. The comebacks.
This is referring to Aly Raisman and Gabby Douglas (members of the Fierce Five from London 2012) who have made a comeback into elite gymnastics and are favorites to make the Olympic team for Rio this year.
6. "New scoring."
It's been around for almost a decade now, but in the minds of everyone who pictures the Perfect 10, this is quite different. Along with the execution score (which is what the Perfect 10 has been) is a difficulty score based on the difficulty of skills performed. NBC helps out with some colorful shapes to help people understand the scoring, but after watching a few competitions, you'll get the gist.
7. Sparkles.
The leotards at Classics were just so sparkly (which I, of course, absolutely loved) and I'm expecting nothing less at Championships.
8. Tighter hairstyles.
Gone are the days of the McKayla Maroney bun because hair must now be neat and tidy. However, you'll most definitely still see scrunchies and bows to coordinate with the leotards.
9. Martha Karolyi.
Martha is in charge of selecting the Olympic team, and she is always watching the girls. Her approval means everything.
10. Incredible gymnastics.
And of course, you will most definitely see absolutely incredible gymnastics from the best gymnasts in the world.