I Got This: An Inspiring Tale of Triumph and Tenacity by Laurie Hernandez - A Compelling Must-Read!

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As a huge fan of gymnastics and the Olympics, I was beyond excited to get my hands on Laurie Hernandez's book, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond. Hernandez captured the hearts of millions during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she helped lead the U.S. women's gymnastics team to victory and won an individual silver medal on balance beam. But her journey to that point was far from easy, and her book provides an inspiring and candid look into the challenges she faced along the way.

From the very first page, Hernandez's voice is clear and engaging. She writes with a refreshing honesty and humility that makes it easy to root for her, even as she describes the intense pressure and competition she faced as a young gymnast. She doesn't shy away from the tough moments, either; Hernandez opens up about her struggles with self-doubt and body image, as well as the injuries and setbacks that threatened to derail her career.

Despite the obstacles she faced, Hernandez's determination and talent eventually landed her a spot on the U.S. national team. In I Got This, she takes readers behind the scenes of her Olympic journey, from the grueling training camps to the thrilling moments on the competition floor. Her descriptions are vivid and detailed, giving readers a sense of what it's like to be a world-class athlete.

One of the most striking things about Hernandez's story is her resilience in the face of adversity. She writes about how she learned to bounce back from failures and setbacks, and how those experiences ultimately made her stronger. Her positive attitude and infectious energy shine through on every page, making it impossible not to feel inspired by her story.

In addition to her own experiences, Hernandez also shares insights and advice that will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds. She writes about the importance of setting goals, staying focused, and believing in yourself, all while emphasizing the importance of family, friends, and a strong support system.

Throughout I Got This, Hernandez's passion for gymnastics and her love for her teammates are evident. She writes with warmth and affection about the friendships she formed on the national team, and the sense of camaraderie that helped carry her through even the toughest moments.

Of course, no book about gymnastics would be complete without some incredible stories of athleticism and triumph. Hernandez delivers in spades, describing the thrill of landing new skills and nailing difficult routines. Her descriptions are so vivid that readers can almost feel the adrenaline rush of competition.

But what sets I Got This apart from other sports memoirs is Hernandez's honesty and vulnerability. She shares not only her triumphs, but also the moments when she fell short or doubted herself. Her willingness to be open and honest about her struggles makes her story even more compelling and relatable.

Ultimately, I Got This is a book about resilience, determination, and the power of believing in yourself. Hernandez's story is a testament to the fact that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of faith, anything is possible.

Whether you're a fan of gymnastics, the Olympics, or just an inspiring story of perseverance, I Got This is a must-read. Hernandez's voice is unique and captivating, and her journey is one that will stick with readers long after they've turned the final page.


Introduction

When I first heard about Laurie Hernandez's book, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond, I knew immediately that I had to read it. As a fan of gymnastics and a lover of inspiring stories, I was eager to learn more about Hernandez's journey to becoming an Olympic gold medalist. So, when I finally got my hands on a copy of the book, I couldn't wait to dive in and start reading.

The Early Years

In the opening chapters of the book, Hernandez takes us back to her early years as a gymnast. She talks about how she fell in love with the sport at a young age and how she worked tirelessly to improve her skills. She also shares some of the challenges she faced along the way, including injuries and setbacks. Despite these obstacles, Hernandez remained determined to succeed, and her hard work paid off when she was selected to join the U.S. national team.

The Road to Rio

One of the most exciting parts of the book is Hernandez's account of her journey to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. She shares behind-the-scenes details about her training, her teammates, and the competition itself. Hernandez also talks about the nerves and pressure she felt leading up to the Games, and how she managed to stay focused and confident throughout.

Meeting Simone Biles

As anyone who follows gymnastics knows, Hernandez's teammate Simone Biles is one of the greatest athletes of all time. In I Got This, Hernandez talks about what it was like to meet Biles for the first time, and how their friendship grew over the years. She also discusses the unique dynamic between the two of them as they competed against each other for individual medals while also working together as part of the U.S. team.

Overcoming Adversity

While much of the book is focused on Hernandez's successes, she also doesn't shy away from discussing some of the challenges she faced along the way. She talks about struggling with self-doubt and anxiety, as well as dealing with injuries and other setbacks. However, through it all, Hernandez remained resilient and determined, and her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

The Importance of Family

Throughout I Got This, Hernandez emphasizes the role that her family played in her journey to becoming an Olympic champion. She talks about how her parents supported her dreams from a young age, even when they didn't fully understand the sport of gymnastics. Hernandez also discusses the sacrifices that her family made in order to help her pursue her goals, and how their love and encouragement helped her stay motivated even during the toughest times.

Life After the Olympics

Of course, the 2016 Olympics were just one part of Hernandez's story. In the latter chapters of I Got This, she talks about what her life has been like since returning home from Rio. She discusses the challenges of adjusting to normal life after the intense training and competition of the Olympics, as well as her decision to take a break from gymnastics in order to focus on other aspects of her life.

Giving Back

Despite no longer competing at the elite level, Hernandez remains deeply involved in the world of gymnastics. In I Got This, she talks about her work mentoring young gymnasts and inspiring the next generation of athletes. She also shares some of her plans for the future, including her desire to continue using her platform to make a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion

Overall, I found I Got This: To Gold and Beyond to be an inspiring and engaging read. Hernandez's story is one of perseverance, determination, and the importance of having a strong support system. Whether you're a fan of gymnastics or simply looking for a story to motivate and inspire you, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

Introduction to Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez is a name that has become synonymous with gymnastics excellence. Born on June 9, 2000, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, she is a retired American artistic gymnast who competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics and won a gold medal as part of the U.S. women's gymnastics team. Hernandez has also won a silver medal on the balance beam at the same Olympics. She is known for her energetic personality, powerful performances, and incredible athleticism. In addition to gymnastics, Hernandez has also become a role model for young people around the world through her philanthropic work, motivational speaking, and writing. This article will take a closer look at Hernandez's life and career, from her early beginnings in gymnastics to her journey to the top of the sport and beyond.

Early Life and Gymnastics Career

Hernandez was born to Wanda and Anthony Hernandez, both of Puerto Rican descent. She has a younger brother named Marcus. Growing up, Hernandez was always interested in sports and was involved in dance classes from an early age. However, it wasn't until she was five years old that she discovered her passion for gymnastics. Hernandez's parents enrolled her in a gymnastics class at a local gym, and she quickly fell in love with the sport.Hernandez began competing in gymnastics at the age of eight. She quickly showed promise and joined the prestigious Monmouth Gymnastics Academy in New Jersey. Hernandez trained under coach Maggie Haney, who recognized her talent and worked with her to develop her skills. Hernandez was known for her powerful tumbling passes, her strong bars routine, and her precise beam work. She quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the top junior gymnasts in the country.

The Road to the Olympics

In 2014, Hernandez competed at the U.S. Classic, where she finished in second place in the junior division. She continued to compete in various competitions over the next few years, including the City of Jesolo Trophy, the U.S. National Championships, and the Pan American Games. Hernandez's hard work and dedication paid off when she was selected to be part of the U.S. women's gymnastics team for the 2016 Rio Olympics.Hernandez's road to the Olympics was not without obstacles. In 2014, she suffered a fractured wrist that required surgery and months of rehabilitation. However, she bounced back quickly and continued to train hard. Hernandez also struggled with self-doubt and anxiety, but she worked with a sports psychologist to overcome these challenges. Her mental toughness and resilience would prove to be crucial in the years to come.

Winning Gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics

The 2016 Rio Olympics were a defining moment in Hernandez's career. She and her teammates, known as the Final Five, dominated the competition and won the gold medal in the team event. Hernandez also won a silver medal on the balance beam, making her one of the most successful gymnasts of the Games. Her performances were marked by her signature energy, flair, and precision.Hernandez's success at the Olympics made her a household name and a role model for young people around the world. She was praised for her positive attitude, her fierce determination, and her ability to inspire others. Hernandez became a symbol of hope and perseverance, showing that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Overcoming Adversity and Injury

Despite her success at the Olympics, Hernandez's journey was not without setbacks. In 2017, she announced that she would be taking a break from gymnastics to focus on her mental health. Hernandez had been dealing with anxiety and depression, which had affected her training and performance. She made the difficult decision to step away from the sport she loved in order to prioritize her well-being.Hernandez's decision was met with support and admiration from her fans and fellow gymnasts. She became an advocate for mental health awareness, speaking out about her own struggles and encouraging others to seek help when they needed it. Hernandez also continued to train and compete, returning to the sport in 2018 and winning a gold medal at the U.S. National Championships.Unfortunately, Hernandez's comeback was short-lived. In 2019, she suffered a knee injury that required surgery and months of rehabilitation. She was unable to compete in the U.S. National Championships and missed out on the chance to qualify for the World Championships. However, Hernandez remained positive and focused on her recovery, knowing that she would come back stronger than ever.

Dancing with the Stars

In 2016, Hernandez competed on the 23rd season of Dancing with the Stars. She was paired with professional dancer Valentin Chmerkovskiy and quickly won over audiences with her charm and talent. Hernandez and Chmerkovskiy went on to win the competition, cementing her status as a multi-talented athlete and performer.Hernandez's experience on Dancing with the Stars was a valuable one, as it allowed her to showcase her personality and connect with fans in a new way. She also learned new skills and techniques that would help her in her gymnastics career, such as grace, poise, and musicality.

Life After the Olympics

Since retiring from competitive gymnastics in 2020, Hernandez has kept busy with various projects and endeavors. She has continued to speak out about mental health and has become an ambassador for several organizations that focus on youth empowerment and education. Hernandez has also written a book, titled I Got This: To Gold and Beyond, which chronicles her life and career and provides inspiration to young readers.Hernandez has also pursued other interests outside of gymnastics. She has expressed an interest in acting and has appeared in several television shows, including American Ninja Warrior and The Big Bang Theory. Hernandez has also been a guest commentator for gymnastics events and has worked as a correspondent for the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Balancing School and Gymnastics

Throughout her career, Hernandez has also prioritized her education. She attended public school while training for the Olympics, and continued to study while competing on Dancing with the Stars. Hernandez graduated from high school in 2018 and enrolled at the University of Florida, where she is studying psychology.Hernandez has spoken about the importance of balancing academics and athletics, and how pursuing both can help young people achieve their goals. She has encouraged young people to prioritize their education and to find ways to pursue their passions while still staying on track academically.

The Importance of Mental Health

One of the most important lessons that Hernandez has learned throughout her career is the importance of mental health. She has spoken openly about her struggles with anxiety and depression, and has encouraged others to seek help when they need it. Hernandez has also emphasized the need for athletes to take care of their mental health, as well as their physical health.Hernandez has become an advocate for mental health awareness, using her platform to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. She has encouraged young people to speak out about their own struggles and to seek support from friends, family, and professionals.

Inspiring Others and Giving Back

Throughout her career, Hernandez has been a role model and inspiration to young people around the world. She has used her success to give back to her community and to inspire others to pursue their dreams. Hernandez has worked with several organizations that focus on youth empowerment, education, and mental health, including the Jed Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the American Heart Association.Hernandez has also used her platform to inspire young gymnasts and athletes. She has spoken about the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and has encouraged young people to pursue their passions with passion and determination.

Conclusion

Laurie Hernandez's life and career have been defined by her talent, resilience, and dedication. From her early beginnings in gymnastics to her journey to the top of the sport and beyond, Hernandez has shown that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude. She has become a role model and inspiration to young people around the world, using her success to give back to her community and to raise awareness about important issues such as mental health and youth empowerment. Hernandez's legacy will continue to inspire generations of young people to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world.

My Point of View on I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book

Overview

I Got This is a book written by Laurie Hernandez, a renowned Olympic gymnast and Dancing with the Stars winner. The book aims to inspire young readers to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles in life.

Pros of I Got This

1. Inspirational: Laurie's story of overcoming obstacles and achieving success is truly inspiring. She encourages young readers to believe in themselves and work hard towards their goals.

2. Easy to Read: The book is written in a simple language that is easy to understand for young readers. The chapters are short and concise, making it an ideal book for reluctant readers.

3. Positive Message: The book promotes positive values such as determination, perseverance, and self-belief, which are essential for success in any field.

Cons of I Got This

1. Limited Content: The book only covers Laurie's journey as a gymnast and does not delve into other aspects of her life. This may limit the book's appeal to readers who are not interested in gymnastics.

2. Lack of Depth: The book touches on various challenges faced by Laurie but does not provide an in-depth analysis of how she overcame them. This may leave readers wanting more.

3. Repetitive: The book repeats several themes and ideas throughout, which can be monotonous for some readers.

Table Comparison of I Got This with Other Inspirational Books

Book Title Author Pros Cons
I Got This Laurie Hernandez Inspirational, Easy to Read, Positive Message Limited Content, Lack of Depth, Repetitive
The Alchemist Paulo Coelho Inspiring, Philosophical, Deep May be too abstract for some readers, Slow-paced
Becoming Michelle Obama Inspirational, Insightful, Personal Long, May not appeal to all readers
In conclusion, I Got This is a good book for young readers who are interested in gymnastics and need inspiration to pursue their dreams. However, it may not appeal to readers who are looking for a more in-depth and wide-ranging account of Laurie's life.

Closing Message: I Got This by Laurie Hernandez

Thank you for taking the time to read my review of I Got This by Laurie Hernandez. I hope that my insights and opinions have helped you decide whether or not this book is worth a read for you.

To recap, I Got This is a memoir by Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez that details her journey to becoming a gold medal-winning athlete. Along the way, she shares personal stories of triumph and struggle, as well as advice for young girls who may be facing similar challenges.

If you're a fan of gymnastics or sports in general, I highly recommend giving this book a chance. Hernandez's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, and her story is truly inspiring.

One thing that I particularly appreciated about I Got This was Hernandez's honesty about the mental and emotional toll that gymnastics can take on an athlete. She doesn't shy away from discussing the pressure and anxiety that come with competing at the highest level, and I think this makes her story even more relatable to readers.

Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the emphasis on self-care and self-love. Hernandez stresses the importance of taking care of oneself both physically and mentally, and encourages her readers to prioritize their own well-being.

Overall, I think I Got This is a fantastic read that has something to offer to people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a fan of gymnastics, looking for inspiration and motivation, or simply interested in learning more about one of America's most beloved Olympic athletes, I believe you'll find something to enjoy in this book.

In conclusion, I want to thank you again for visiting my blog and reading my review. I hope that I've been able to provide you with valuable information and insight about I Got This by Laurie Hernandez. If you do decide to read the book, please feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you thought!


People Also Ask About I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book

What is I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book about?

I Got This is a memoir written by Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez. The book tells the story of her journey to becoming a gymnastics champion, including her struggles with mental health and the pressures of competition.

What age group is I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book suitable for?

The book is recommended for readers aged 10-14 years old, but can be enjoyed by anyone interested in Laurie Hernandez's story and the sport of gymnastics.

What are some key themes explored in I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book?

The book explores themes such as perseverance, determination, mental health, and the importance of having a support system. It also touches on topics such as bullying and body image.

Is I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book inspirational?

Yes, the book is considered to be inspirational by many readers. It shows how hard work and dedication can lead to success, and encourages readers to pursue their own dreams and passions.

Does I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book include photos?

Yes, the book includes several pages of full-color photos featuring Laurie Hernandez and her gymnastics teammates.

Is I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book a good gift for a young gymnast?

Yes, the book would make a great gift for a young gymnast who is interested in learning more about the sport and finding inspiration from a successful athlete like Laurie Hernandez.

  • Overall, I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book is an inspiring memoir that encourages readers to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.
  • The book is recommended for readers aged 10-14 years old, but can be enjoyed by anyone interested in Laurie Hernandez's story and the sport of gymnastics.
  • Some key themes explored in the book include perseverance, determination, mental health, and the importance of having a support system.
  • The book includes several pages of full-color photos featuring Laurie Hernandez and her gymnastics teammates.
  • I Got This Laurie Hernandez Book would make a great gift for a young gymnast who is interested in learning more about the sport and finding inspiration from a successful athlete like Laurie Hernandez.