Meet Nicole Clemens. She’s a 37-year-old mum of two from Missouri, a high school English teacher, and a former gymnast.
She told BuzzFeed News: “I was a pretty mediocre competitive gymnast from about ages 10-15. I loved the sport but I started training late by gymnastics standards and I’m not really built like a gymnast."
When this busy mum isn’t teaching or raising her children, she also coaches gymnastics part time to help fund her 14-year-old daughter’s gymnastics career.
Alongside her coaching, the mum-of-two has been enrolled in adult gymnastics classes for fun, an experience she says has allowed her to "learn how to fly".
And showing gravity who is the boss is exactly what Nicole did when she executed a roundoff back layout — a technical move she previously struggled with during her competitive days.
In the spirit of being freaking proud of myself and also knowing I'm about to be fat shamed on the Internet, I present to you me, a 38 year old mom and teacher, doing a thing I was afraid to do when I was a 14 year old gymnast. Next week: add a full (and straighten my legs)
She explained: “It was one of the skills that kept me from moving up to the next level.”
The video, captured by her daughter, was shared on Twitter along with the caption: "In the spirit of being freaking proud of myself and also knowing I'm about to be fat shamed on the internet, I present to you me, a 38 year old mom and teacher, doing a thing I was afraid to do when I was a 14 year old gymnast."
It has now been viewed more than 4.5 million times and people are inspired by Nicole for facing her fears and her display of athleticism.
Going viral is "very very weird," said Nicole, who has managed to impress her students and a lot of people online.
Her gravity defying stunt has been applauded by people all over the internet.
@Nicolemens I am an internet stranger and frankly, you are #goals and a proper inspiration. I hope the kids you teach see this!
@Nicolemens That is soooooo awesome! Way to go!
@Nicolemens This is amazing! Damn right you should be so incredibly proud of yourself. I’m really happy you shared this. It made me smile as I’m currently laying down with a cold & a napkin in my nose. 🤧💕
@Nicolemens You look amazing! Congrats! I am nearly 55, and my body didn't work that way when I was 15, and damned skippy wouldn't now! Don't let anyone steal the joy of what you've accomplished! You earned that, girl!!!
@Nicolemens From one former gymnast to another, excellent form! Proud of you. I'm 40 and my back hurts just sitting in this chair. In honor of you, I'm going to go home and cartwheel. Hope I don't kill myself. 💗😉
Her post has also generated a lot of interest in adult gymnastics classes which is a bonus for the enthusiast who welcomed the opportunity to be an advocate for the sport.
