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In this episode of the Game of Gymnastics podcast, Felix Coomber, an ex-English National Squad member and two-time British champion, shares his unique journey in gymnastics and his experiences training in Japan. He discusses his early beginnings in the sport, the transition to elite competition, and the cultural differences he encountered while studying and training abroad. Felix elaborates on the rigorous training regimen in Japan, the significance of the senpai-kouhai system, and the challenges of balancing university life with gymnastics. He also highlights the supportive environment at his university, Tsukuba, where teachers go above and beyond to assist international students. Listeners will gain insight into the world of gymnastics from a personal perspective, as well as the broader implications of training in a different cultural context.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Cultural Differences in Training : Felix highlights the significant differences between gymnastics training in the UK and Japan, particularly the concept of Senpai Kouhai, where younger gymnasts have to perform additional duties for their older peers, which contrasts with the more egalitarian approach in the UK.
2. Coaching Style : In Japan, the coaching style is less hands-on, with coaches often taking a backseat during training sessions. Gymnasts are expected to help each other and take more responsibility for their own learning, which can be a challenging adjustment for those used to more direct coaching.
3. University Experience : Felix describes his university experience in Japan as rigorous, with a structured system that requires a minimum of 126 points to graduate. The courses are broad, allowing students to choose from various subjects, but also necessitating a balance between academics and gymnastics training.
4. Supportive Environment : The teachers at Felix's university are described as exceptionally supportive, going above and beyond to help students, including personal assistance during medical emergencies. This level of care contributes to a positive educational experience.
5. Training Flexibility : The training structure in Japan allows for "free training," where gymnasts can choose which apparatus to work on without a strict schedule. This flexibility helps maintain consistency and reduces the risk of injury by allowing gymnasts to train on multiple pieces regularly.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I just kind of enjoyed doing it... I had no expectations of like getting into the GB squad or anything." - Felix
2. "In Japan, they have this thing called Senpai Kouhai... you have to do extra cleaning in the morning." - Felix
3. "The coach will arrive at like 6 p.m. He'll come in, everyone has to go up and say hello to him." - Felix 
4. "I was pretty shocked, but also not that many applied for it because it's not very well known." - Felix 
5. "The university in itself, the teaching in itself is, I think, by far way better than British universities." 

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Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.