The world of gymnastics has a long legacy of female competitors who changed the game. From Olympic gold medals to world championship titles, there’s no denying that American female gymnasts have achieved major accomplishments on the uneven bars, vault, balance beam, and floor. Here are a handful of women who have made athletic history.

4 U.S. Women Gymnasts Who Changed the Sport

1. Mary Lou Retton

Mary Lou Retton was only 16 when she competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics. She became a household name overnight after receiving two perfect scores on the vaults and becoming the first non-Eastern European woman to earn the all-around gold. As one of the first internationally successful U.S. gymnasts, Retton paved the way for the women who followed in her footsteps.

2. Shannon Miller

Shannon Miller is best known for competing on the Magnificent Seven team at the 1996 Olympics and winning the gold. In fact, throughout 1991-1996, she won a whopping 16 gold medals and world championships. Until 2016, she held the record for most medals won by a gymnast in U.S. history.

3. Gabby Douglas 

At the 2012 Summer Olympics, Gabby Douglas participated on the U.S. Women's Gymnastics team. She became the first African-American woman to win the individual all-around competition. Not only that, but Douglas also became the first American to win multiple gold medals in both team and individual championships.

4. Simone Biles

With a grand total of 19 world championship and Olympic wins to her name, Simone Biles is now the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history. She holds the world record for most gold medals won by a gymnast in one Olympics and is especially talented in balance beam and floor exercises.  

If your child shows an interest in becoming a gymnast, sign them up for classes at The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester. This 22,000-foot custom-built facility located in Monroe County, NY, offers top-notch equipment and training to cultivate talent and build a strong foundation of skills. Call them at (585) 388-8686 to enroll your child in after school or competitive programs. Visit the website to learn more about discounts and special needs opportunities.