As part of a media project concerning the toxic environment in aesthetic sports, we interviewed Polina Zubkova, a runner-up for the Russian championships in acrobatic dance. During the interview, we discussed the pressure, how childhood in sports impacts mental health, the reasons for ending a career, and the prospects of creating a kinder environment for female athletes within aesthetic sports.
«I truly hope that in the future, none of the hardships that current gymnasts are going through will exist.»
Russian Vice Champion in Acrobatic Dance, Polina Zubkova, discusses her childhood in rhythmic gymnastics, the pressure from coaches, and self-acceptance.
In aesthetic sports, results are not judged solely on technique and execution of elements. The athlete’s appearance, physique, and emotions also become subjects of scrutiny, and the discipline can evolve into constant control over the body and behavior. Behind the beautiful spectacle of a performance is an experience that is rarely discussed from the stage. Polina Zubkova trained in rhythmic gymnastics for eight years before transitioning to contemporary dance. She is a Vice-Champion of Russia in acrobatic dance, a bronze medalist at the Russian Slow Dance Championship, and a Russian champion in Slow Dance Duets. As part of a project examining the toxic environment in aesthetic sports, Polina recalls her childhood in the gymnastics hall—humiliating situations during practice, strict dietary control—and how her relationship with her body changed after moving to a different sport.
