Successful Athletes Come In Small Packages
February 9, 2015
Christina Eldamaa is a talented “Rhythmic Gymnast,” whom I began working with in 2014. Due to Christina’s dedication and long hours of training, her coaches recommended the benefits that massage therapy would provide to her. They wanted her to keep her muscles loose in order to help prevent injury. Her mother found me on the Internet, and since last spring, I have had the pleasure of calling Christina my client.
Christina is a vibrant, adorable 9 year old who loves school, gymnastics, cheerleading and dance. On her first visit, I learned that she would be competing as a Level 5 Gymnast at the U.S. National Stars and Stripes Cup that was held in Daytona Beach, FL, this past May. I only had a few weeks to get familiar with her sport and its demands on her body before this National event. I worked on her several times during this preparation period for Daytona.
On May 8th, I learned that Christina had a great meet. She won a total of four medals; which included 2nd place on Rope, 3rd place in Floor and Hoop, and with an All-Around score of 38.7 (just .1 away from 1st place) came in 2nd place earning a Silver Medal. Needless to say, I was very thrilled!!!
I continue to work with Christina on a regular basis. Children are very resilient and do not require weekly muscle maintenance. Her mother and I manage her treatments based upon how she is feeling. If Christina is feeling “stiff” or “sore” she lets her mother know and I immediately fit her into my schedule. Her appointments are usually every 3 weeks unless she is headed to a competition. During those peak performance periods, I may see her an additional time or two before the event.
This January, Christina headed to Nevada to compete in the Las Vegas Rhythmic Invitational as a Level 6 Gymnast. Two days before she left, I treated Christina for an hour and 45 minutes, making sure every origin and incursion of every muscle was pliable and without restriction. Her performances were fabulous!!! She came in 1st place in clubs and rope, 2nd place in floor, and 3rd place in hoop; for a final All-Around 1st place Shining Gold Finish!
Congratulations Christina, Super Job!!! I look forward to assisting you with your continued Success!