In Netflix’s new docuseries “Simone Biles: Rising,” the talented gymnast lays everything out on the table. The docuseries follows Simone Biles as she navigates her personal life, mental health and training ahead of her highly anticipated return to the Olympics.
The docuseries, directed by Katie Walsh, explores the ups and downs that the 27-year-old faced throughout her over a decade gymnastics run. Biles talks about her mental health joruney, her battle with the “twisties,” the 2020 Olympics and more. The first two episodes premiered on July 17, with two more episodes coming in the fall.
Biles’ story is one of resilience and strength. Here’s everything you missed in the first two episodes of “Simone Biles: Rising.”
Black Women Can’t Have A Bad Day
Despite being the most decorated gymnast and arguably the greatest in her generation, Biles still faced the harsh words of people around the world. At one of her lowest moments, it seems that some people could care less about her mental or physical wellbeing. Instead, the only thing that mattered was her stepping down from the team. It was another reminder that Black women always have to perform at the highest level with little room for error.
Mental Health Is A Priority
Biles, along with others like tennis star Naomi Osaka, is redefining what it means to be an athlete by simply putting themselves and their wellbeing before the sport. By taking a step back in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Biles set a new standard for her fellow female athletes. It’s a standard that places emphasis on maintaining both mental and physical wellness to thrive. Gymnastics is a sport that requires the synergy of both the mind and the body. However, in that moment, Biles knew in her gut that something was wrong. She prioritized herself and her mental wellness, which opened up a discussion of how far athletes should be pushed.
The Hardships Of Being The GOAT
From the social commentary from strangers to people waiting for her downfall, being the greatest comes with a heavy burden. The docuseries explored some of the hardships that Biles faces on a daily basis and it’s impact on her mental health. She was completely vulnerable and honest about how she preserves her mental health and the practices she uses to keep her sanity. With all the outside noise, pressure and negativity from some, Biles still rises to the top of her game.
Community Is Important
One undertone that is prevalent throughout the first two episodes of the limited series is the importance of community. From her family being unable to attend the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to her fellow gymnasts supporting her through her recovery, Biles values her community. The docuseries showed the impact a person’s circle can have on their physical and mental wellness.
Beauty Standards Are Crippling
No matter the industry, society’s superficial beauty standards find a way to creep in and impose on Black talent. After gymnast Gabby Douglas became the first African-American woman to win the individual all-around competition, people and the media didn’t praise her for her extraordinary talent. They took the time to comment and make jokes about the then-16-year-old’s hair. In the docuseries, Biles also talked about the impact that similar criticism over how her hair looks impacted her. It plays into a larger conversation of how Black women are expected to conform and dim their light in predominately white spaces.
Simone Biles Greatest Strength Is Her Resilience
To anyone who watched the first two episodes of “Simone Biles: Rising,” one thing is made clear. The talented gymnast’s greatest strength is not the five skills named after her or her unbelievable work ethic. Instead, it’s her resilience. From her early childhood throughout her ups and downs in the public eye, Biles has managed to lead with love, light and grace. She is changing the sport for the better and serving as a role model for generations to come.