The Game of Gymnastics

Winston Powell
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Welcome to The Game of Gymnastics podcast, where we dive deep into the world of elite gymnastics. Join us as we explore how top gymnasts, coaches, and judges optimize training and performance to achieve peak results. We'll look into the scoring system, revealing how athletes strategically use the Code of Points to their advantage. Discover how gymnasts manage recovery and cope with the inevitable injuries that come with the sport. We’ll also explore how these athletes handle the intense pressure of competing at the highest levels, from the Olympics to the Commonwealth Games and beyond. Whether you're a gymnast, coach, or fan, this podcast offers valuable insights into how the best in the world play the game to win when it matters most.

  1. 1D AGO

    Post-Surgery Comeback: Analysing My Welsh Routines

    Episode Description In this solo episode of The Game of Gymnastics, Winston breaks down his routines from the 2026 Welsh Championships — the first competition back following ankle surgery in November. Recorded as a reaction-style deep dive, Winston analyses all three routines (Pommel Horse, Parallel Bars, and High Bar) in detail, unpacking what went right, what went wrong, and what the scores don’t always show. From rebuilding dismount confidence post-surgery to navigating long waits between apparatus in a cold arena, this episode gives a raw, technical, and honest look at what it actually feels like to return to competition after injury. There were positives. There were frustrations. There were lessons. This isn’t a highlight reel — it’s a process breakdown. If you’re an athlete coming back from injury, struggling to replicate training in competition, or trying to balance perspective with ambition, this one’s for you. Key Themes • Returning to competition after ankle surgery • Managing dismount risk and landing load • When scores feel harsh — and how to respond • The mental shift between training and competition • Competing on three pieces instead of six • Why “what if” score calculations only go so far • Building toward English and British Championships Best Moments “I know I’m a better gymnast than what I showed.” “It wasn’t perfect — but the point was to get back out there.” “If you did this, something else would’ve happened — gymnastics doesn’t work in hypotheticals.” “It wasn’t my finest competition… but I’ve got to dust myself off and go again.” My Social Links ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game (eBook)https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    20 min

  2. FEB 24

    Tumbling Podium to Hospital Bed: Jaydon Paddock's Journey to Recovery

    Episode Description In part two of this interview, Winston continues his conversation with World Medallist Jaydon Paddock — diving into the emotional side of elite sport, his love for team competition, the unexpected moment at his black belt exam that ended in an ambulance, and his remarkable journey into the world of stunt work. Jaydon opens up about the highs and lows of competition, but also a blood clot and seizure during a martial arts exam that sent him to hospital, cut him off from the sport and the job he loves, and forced him to reframe everything. From his determination to make a comeback, to his love for film, stunts, and performance — this is a raw, insightful look into what drives an athlete when medals aren’t the only thing on the line. Team vs Individual Mindset Jaydon talks about why he thrives under pressure in team finals, and the unspoken brotherhood behind GB’s tumbling success. Stunts, Setbacks & Survival Jaydon recounts his path into the stunt world, working on Argylle, Spider-Man, and more — before a sudden seizure sidelined him from everything. The Fight to Return Honest reflections on injury, impatience, gratitude, and the emotional toll of being forced to rest — even when your body feels fine. Best Moments “I’ve always had the reputation of being reliable. You put my hand up, you’re getting this — or you’re getting this.” "I do tumbling because I enjoy it. It hasn’t felt like a job, even though it’s given me every opportunity I could’ve asked for." “I didn’t feel unfit. That’s the thing — I’d never felt fitter. ” "We came together, we leave together — whether it's with a medal or not." "Never in my life am I going to look at a bottle of water the same again." Jaydon's Socials Instagram Winston's Socials InstagramTikTok The Game of Gymnastics- Understanding The Game Buy the book 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.

    33 min

  3. FEB 17

    Jaydon Paddock’s World Championship Story and the Reality of Elite Tumbling

    Episode Description: In this episode, Winston sits down with Jaydon Paddock — a World and European champion in tumbling and one of the UK’s most dynamic athletes — to talk about his journey through elite competition, mindset under pressure, and what makes tumbling such a unique and brutal discipline. Jaydon opens up about growing up in the sport, transitioning from artistic and acro gymnastics into tumbling, and building an international medal-winning career with Team GB. He shares the behind-the-scenes realities of World Championships, how he handles high-stakes competitions, and why Birmingham 2023 was the most emotional moment of his career. From Power Ranger dreams to performing in front of sold-out arenas, Jaydon’s story blends hard graft, big ambition, and a deep love for the sport. Key Takeaways Finding Tumbling: Why artistic didn’t quite fit and how tumbling became the perfect outlet for Jaydon’s energy, mindset, and strengths. Rapid-Fire Sport: What makes tumbling different from other disciplines — and why a split-second mistake can end a competition before it begins. World & European Success: Jaydon reflects on major team victories, individual medals, and key milestones across junior and senior careers. The Social Side of Sport: How friendships, mentors, and the gymnastics community have shaped his life both on and off the track. World Games & Setbacks: Inside his once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at the World Games, the heartbreak of a fall, and the lessons learned through it all. Best Moments “I've got the attention span of a Labrador... tumbling works for me.” “When something goes wrong, it happens instantly — your feet are one inch off and you're straight to the floor. “It’s not a job — it’s a glorified hobby, even though it's given me all the opportunities I could've ever asked for” “I started this because I wanted to be a Power Ranger.” Jaydon’s Social Links Instagram: @jaydonpaddock My Social Links ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game (eBook)https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    35 min

  4. FEB 10

    Parkour Is Gymnastics?!- Discipline Breakdown Pt. 2

    Episode Description In this episode, Winston returns with Part 2 of the Gymnastics Discipline Breakdown — diving into the final five of the disciplines under the World Gymnastics (FIG) governance. If you’ve ever wondered how trampoline and tumbling fit together, what makes parkour a gymnastics discipline, or how acrobatic gymnastics actually work in competition, this episode breaks it all down in a clear and accessible way. From Olympic disciplines to community showcases, this is your go-to guide to understanding the full gymnastics landscape. Whether you’re a fan, a parent, or someone brand new to the sport, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the skill, creativity, and diversity across all eight gymnastics disciplines. Key Takeaways Trampoline Gymnastics An overview of all four events: Individual Trampoline, Synchronised Trampoline, Tumbling, and Double Mini Trampoline. Learn the difference between them, what competitions look like, and what a good score is at elite level. Acrobatic Gymnastics Explore the artistry and teamwork behind pairs and group routines and how the 3 routines are built from balance and dynamic elements. Rhythmic Gymnastics This section outlines the four apparatus at the elite level, group vs individual formats, and the blend of dance, difficulty, and execution that defines the sport. Aerobic Gymnastics A high-energy, explosive discipline based on complex choreography, powerful movement, and extreme endurance. We cover what the floor is like and how routines are judged. Parkour The most recent addition to World Gymnastics. We unpack the Speed and Freestyle formats, how events are structured, and what makes this controversial inclusion one of the most debated in the sport. Best Moments “Scoring for trampolining includes time of flight and horizontal displacement — things that don’t exist in artistic gymnastics.” “Scoring is mostly difficulty, execution, and landing penalties — but the way elements are valued is really interesting.” “Acro has five event types and three routine types — and yeah, if you want the full breakdown, Polly Maggs did a better job than me.” “Parkour being part of gymnastics? I had no idea until I started researching. I thought it was its own thing.” My Social Links ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Gamehttps://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    23 min

  5. FEB 3

    Olympic Gold Coaching: Luke Carson's Blueprint to Success

    Episode Description In this episode, Winston sits down with Luke Carson — former Irish international gymnast turned world-class coach — to talk about his incredible journey from self-coached athlete to Olympic coach of Rhys McClenaghan and founder of Origin Gymnastics. Luke shares how a short training stint in England turned into a five-year obsession with elite gymnastics, leading him to transition into coaching after a string of injuries. He opens up about his decade-long plan to develop Rhys into a world and Olympic champion, how Tokyo’s heartbreak fuelled the founding of his own gym, and how he balances elite coaching, business, family and personal development. This is one for the high-performance mindset fans, with deep dives into psychological preparation, live exhibition routines, long-term vision setting, and why volume beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Key Takeaways Building an Olympic Champion Luke explains how he wrote a 10-year plan in 2014 to turn Rhys into an Olympic medallist by Paris 2024 — and how that plan came to life step by step. Tokyo & Paris — Two Very Different Stories He reflects on the heartbreak of the 2021 Olympic final, how it pushed him to open his own gym, and the emotional aftermath of winning gold in Paris. Psychology and Pressure Simulation From visualising Olympic finals to running live exhibition routines in front of 500 people, Luke shares how he prepares gymnasts mentally as well as physically. Origin Gymnastics & Business Ambition He talks about founding the largest gymnastics centre in Northern Ireland, balancing elite development with financial risk, and future expansion plans. What Comes After Winning It All? With every major title now ticked off — British, European, World, Olympic — Luke opens up about what motivates him and Rhys now, and what the next cycle might hold. Best Moments "There’s nothing that makes you feel more alive than walking into a stadium packed full of people — that’s living." "I said it to his mum six months in, this boy can be world champion." "On the flight home from Tokyo, I made the decision: I'm opening my own gym. I’m not going to feel this vulnerable again." "Once a task has begun, never leave it until it’s done. Be thy labor great or small, do it well or not at all." Luke’s Social Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/lukecarson89/https://www.origingymnastics.com/ My Social Links ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    53 min

  6. JAN 27

    The Biggest Part of Gymnastics That No One Talks About: Discipline Breakdown Pt. 1

    Podcast Description In this solo episode, Winston breaks down the first three of the eight disciplines officially governed by World Gymnastics (formerly FIG):Gymnastics for All, Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG), and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG). Whether you’re a gymnast, a coach, a parent, or a fan trying to make sense of all the apparatus, events, and scores — this is your ultimate beginner’s guide. Winston draws from personal experience and research to help you appreciate the scale and structure of the sport in a way that’s clear, engaging, and packed with insight. What You'll Learn Gymnastics For All (GfA) The difference between Gymnaestrada and the World Gym for Life Challenge Why this discipline has the highest participation in the world How routines are judged The role of creativity, inclusivity, and community in this discipline Men's Artistic Gymnastics (MAG) The six apparatus explained: Floor, Pommel Horse, Rings, Vault, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar The different types of finals: Team, All-Around, Apparatus How difficulty, execution, and the stick bonus impact scores Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) The four apparatus: Vault, Uneven Bars, Beam, and Floor What makes WAG floor and beam so unique in terms of performance and artistry Key differences in vault scoring between men’s and women’s gymnastics Best Moments 🗣️ “Gymnastics for All is probably the discipline with the most variety — and the biggest participation in the world.” 🗣️ “The point of gymnastics is to make the hardest things look easy.” 🗣️ “High bar is one of the hardest pieces to stick because you're going forwards into a backwards landing.” 🗣️ “The best of the best routines will always have the biggest releases.” The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding the Gamehttps://payhip.com/b/f6RjV Socials Instagram – @wpowell05 TikTok – @winstonpowell5 If you found this episode helpful or learned something new, comment below with your favourite discipline or the one you're most curious about — and hit like, subscribe, or follow so you don’t miss Part 2! 🎙️ Next up: Rhythmic, Acro, Aerobic, Trampoline/Tumbling, and Parkour…

    26 min

  7. JAN 20

    Acrobatic Gymnastics and Redefining Success after Elite Sport with Polly Maggs

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode, Winston sits down with Polly Maggs — a multiple-time British Champion, European and World Championships competitor, and the first Acro gymnast to appear on the podcast. Polly shares her unique journey through Acrobatic Gymnastics, from teaching herself skills on the school field to competing for Great Britain on the world stage. As Winston’s girlfriend, this conversation is more relaxed than usual — but no less insightful. They explore everything from elite partnership dynamics to the emotional aftermath of retiring from elite sport. Whether you know acro or not, you’ll leave this episode with a deeper appreciation for the artistry, trust, and risk involved — and a better understanding of why so many gymnasts struggle when it’s all over. What Is Acro Really Like? Polly explains the format, disciplines, and routines in Acrobatic Gymnastics, breaking it down for newcomers and clarifying common misconceptions (spoiler: it's not just "cheerleading" or "dance"). The Power of Partnership She reflects on what makes a good acro partnership work — from aligned work ethics to emotional maturity — and shares the challenges of switching partners after six years. Competing Through COVID From training in a cold warehouse to performing without routines before a World Championship, Polly opens up about one of the most unconventional (and toughest) build-ups of her career. Retirement & Identity Shift Now retired from elite competition, Polly talks honestly about the transition out of gymnastics, the pressure to always be achieving, and learning to live without constant expectations. Comparing Disciplines Winston and Polly discuss the differences between Acro and Artistic — why Acro feels more like a performance, how it’s often misunderstood, and what it’s like catching someone from two stories up. Best Moments Polly: 🗣️ "It’s really weird. I struggled with coming out of training because you're used to doing gym six times a week for multiple hours on end — and then just going from that to nothing was a bit weird." 🗣️ "You’ve got to learn about yourself... view yourself as something other than just a gymnast." 🗣️"People always assume beam and bars. So you just tend to go, ‘Yeah... it’s just floor.’" Winston: 🗣️"It's a shame that a lot of gymnastics disciplines are pretty underrepresented." 🗣️ "I used to just force myself to, like, don’t be nervous. If you just do it enough times, eventually you’ll get over it." Polly's Social links https://www.instagram.com/maggspolly/ Winston's Social Links https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/ The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    36 min

  8. JAN 13

    Six Months Recovery After One Bad Landing: Why I Needed Ankle Surgery

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this solo episode, Winston shares a personal and honest update on one of the biggest setbacks of his gymnastics career so far — a dislocated ankle that required surgery and a long road to recovery. He walks through the days and weeks leading up to the operation, what actually happened during surgery, and how he’s approaching rehab both physically and mentally. From initial panic to long-term planning, this episode captures the emotional rollercoaster of injury — and what it really takes to keep moving forward. Key Takeaways Pre-Surgery Mindset Winston opens up about the lead-up to the operation: the pain, frustration, and uncertainty, as well as the mental shift needed to accept what was coming. What Surgery Was Like He talks through the surgery process, how it felt to be off his feet, and the reality of being sidelined as a high-level athlete. Rehab & Recovery Plan Now in the early stages of recovery, Winston shares how he’s managing the physical and mental side of rehab — from staying motivated to setting realistic benchmarks. What This Means Going Forward With the season disrupted and goals temporarily paused, Winston talks honestly about how this injury has changed his perspective, and how he's reframing progress during this time. Best Quotes "An injury that I thought would take a week or two to heal… needed ankle surgery four months later." "It's easy for me to get all caught up in it, but also at the same time, you don't know what you don't know." "You have to remember to give yourself a bit of grace… especially when you're surrounded with people doing some amazing stuff." My Social Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5 The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Gamehttps://payhip.com/b/f6RjV 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.

    22 min
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About

Welcome to The Game of Gymnastics podcast, where we dive deep into the world of elite gymnastics. Join us as we explore how top gymnasts, coaches, and judges optimize training and performance to achieve peak results. We'll look into the scoring system, revealing how athletes strategically use the Code of Points to their advantage. Discover how gymnasts manage recovery and cope with the inevitable injuries that come with the sport. We’ll also explore how these athletes handle the intense pressure of competing at the highest levels, from the Olympics to the Commonwealth Games and beyond. Whether you're a gymnast, coach, or fan, this podcast offers valuable insights into how the best in the world play the game to win when it matters most.

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