Most questions about rhythmic gymnastics and training come from girls aged 9 to 14-15. If something isn’t going right or they’re worried about something, they’re often too shy to mention it to their trainer or their parents because they’re afraid of being put down or being laughed at by other children, or getting some hurtful comments. My message to these kids is: If something’s really important to you, DON’T BE AFRAID!

Don’t be afraid to have a serious conversation with your trainer or parents; don’t be afraid of somebody’s emotions or perhaps even hurtful words. In real life people don’t always behave considerately to one another, and you have to learn not to let this inconsiderate behaviour get to you, don’t let it hurt you. You have to learn to maintain a distance and keep your cool, to ask questions precisely and politely and insist on getting an answer – not a COMMENT on your question, but a clear and informative ANSWER to it.

If people just fob you off with a lot of words instead of giving you an answer, you shouldn’t be afraid to remind them that you need a proper reply. And it doesn’t matter who you’re talking to – your Mum, your teacher or head teacher, the Governor of your region or the President of Russia. If your question is a serious one and has been put politely to the right person (to the person who should be able to help with what you need because of his job or position), you have every right to expect that person to give you a proper answer.

But if timidity or shyness really get in the way, there’s no need to make heroic efforts. You can ask your Mum or Dad to act as a go-between and speak to the trainer, say, on your behalf. That’s quite normal. They have experience and will be able to get more information on the thing that’s important to you. And the next time, you’ll definitely do it yourself.))