Q&A With Trampoline Olympic Champion Rosie MacLennan

Olympic trampolinist Rosie MacLennan has risen to new heights this year becoming the first person ever to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in trampoline!

And we are incredibly proud to work with this amazing woman and support her as one of our Springfree Ambassadors - Rosie, like many Gymnastic champions, loves Springfree trampolines and the quality and safety they provide.

We caught up with Rosie for a Q&A before the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio to talk about motivation, training and advice to future athletes...

At what point did you realise that you could have a real career in trampolining?

“There was not one moment that I realised it, I don't think. I knew when I watched Karen in 2000 that I wanted to pursue that path and (perhaps naively) just believed that it could happen. When I was 14, I really focused on that goal and when I was 18, my dream came true. After that, I still loved the sport and felt there was more I could do so kept training.”

Can you tell us about your training regime?

“Right now I am on a trampoline 8-9 times a week for two hours each session. I work-out in a strength and conditioning gym twice a week for 2-3 hours each session. I do Pilates twice a week for an hour each session.”

What are your top trampoline work-out recommendations?

“Trampoline requires a lot of leg and core strength both building strength and power. My favourites are squats, deadlifts, leg press, ball throws for legs then for core, v-sits, plank, leg raises, sit-ups (a variety of kinds).”

Injury prevention is obviously so important, can you explain the importance of jumping safely?

“It's important to stay in control at all times. Trampoline can be a lot of fun if you do it properly”

Describe the feelings and thoughts that went through your head upon qualifying for the 2016 Olympics in Rio?

“Gratitude and relief! It was a pretty bumpy road leading up to World’s, 3 weeks before we left I wasn’t even sure I would get to compete. It was incredibly stressful but it made me realize that more than anything I just wanted to be back on the trampoline. When I earned the spot – I was so appreciative for the opportunity to jump.”

What’s your favourite motivational saying?

“I have a lot! Chase the dream, love the journey. Focus on what you can control, have faith in what you don't. All you need is 20 seconds of incredible courage. How badly do you want it – what are you going to do about it?”

What advice would you give to young people who have big dreams?

“Chase the dream, love the journey. You have to love what you do or it's not worth it. The day in day out grind, working hard, pushing yourself to excel, the obstacles you face, the people you meet, the places you see – that's where you get fulfillment. That is where the true experience is. That is where the true lessons are. If you don't get satisfaction and fulfillment from that, a medal won't give it to you.”