Transition to a level 8

Starting in January of this year, I became a level 8 in gymnastics at Black Diamond. Just a reminder, I do the trampoline and tumbling aspect of gymnastics. My favorite event is trampoline. Last year my routine didn't have to many difficult skills, they were mostly different kinds of backflips, and a few baranis, which are front flips with half turns. This summer we started preparing for the next levels. I had to learn a ballout, which is a front flip from my back. I also had to learn a full, which is a back layout with a full turn. Lastly, I had to learn a rudi. A rudi is a front layout with one and a half spins. All of my maneuvers require me to jump higher, be tighter, have more flexibility, be determined, and take risks. Taking risks was a HUGE transition for me! It takes a long time to get your mind set just right to do these tricks. They were scary, but now I love doing them, and think it is super fun to show off my talent! my other event is tumbling. I was a little slower in having it "click" for me. I get to do lots and lots of back hand springs! I also had to learn how to do a whip, that is partially a back hand spring with no hands. It is still scary, but they are getting easier to do. Becoming a new level is always a big step but it is loads of fun and a huge transition.