Episode 163: The Summer Slump Is Real: Why gymnasts (AND Parents) are struggling right now

In this episode of The Gymnast Nutritionist Podcast, I’m diving into the all-too-familiar gymnast summer struggle—and why it’s hitting both athletes and parents hard right now.

From chaotic training schedules to travel, time off, and disrupted routines, summer often leaves gymnasts feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or stuck in a performance plateau. And it’s not just the gymnast feeling it. Parents are frustrated too, feeling stretched thin, wondering what’s going on and how to support their athlete. 

Summer always starts with great intentions. More time to train, better routines, finally getting fueling dialed in. But if you’re being honest, what have you actually done? If your gymnast has big goals for this season, nutrition can’t be an afterthought. It’s not optional. 

Nutrition truly is the foundation of everything your gymnast does in and out of the gym. And if you try to wing it, you won’t get it right. And you’ll be stuck in the same place next year, watching your gymnast in summer struggle and still not know how to help her. 

If your gymnast isn’t hitting those off season goals or is extremely resistant to fueling for the work required… or if YOU are feeling the mental load of trying to hold it all together…this episode is for you. 

In this episode, hear more about:

• Why the “wait until preseason” mindset can backfire – the longer you wait, the longer it will take
•  What you can do now to shift out of survival mode and into a stronger preseason 
• 3 fueling goals every parent should focus on with their gymnast 

Links & Resources 

• Episode 154: The Top 5 Fueling Mistakes Gymnasts Make During Summer
• Why Your Gymnast Won’t Reach their Off-Season Goals
• The Balanced Gymnast® Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts 
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or christinaandersonrdn.com