If you’ve ever read Professor Steve Peters’ book ‘The Chimp Paradox’ you’ll know that your Chimp brain is the name given to the emotional part of your brain that needs to be kept under control; and for me that means being careful with risk taking! I am 47 and an adult novice level gymnast competing both nationally and internationally. However I also have hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). In my case, this makes me prone to dislocations, subluxions and tendonitis; and also makes it difficult for me to see the beam clearly when certain matting colours are underneath it.

Following a torn hamstring in 2024 I decided that when I returned to adult gymnastics competitions I would do so very carefully and not rush my hypermobile body before it was strong enough. I named this thought process my ‘Zebra brain’ after the zebra being the EDS mascot. My Zebra brain told me I didn’t know enough about physiology or my physical strengths and weaknesses caused by my EDS, so I started going to Croydon Physio (part of the Surrey physio group) to help with my injury recovery. My Zebra brain is also a kind of internal risk assessing monologue when I train and compete. I’ll watch other gymnasts and my risk-taking Chimp brain says ‘give it a go- it looks fun’, but my Zebra Brain says ‘just because you could, doesn’t mean you should!’

Having regular physio sessions has been an absolute game changer. Despite not being a gymnastics specialist, my physio Harry is keen to learn about the sport and totally understands my Chimp and Zebra brains. My Chimp brain will come up with a move I’d like to get back or learn. I’ll find a video and show it to Harry and he’ll help me with exercises to ensure I’m in the best physical shape possible, so when my Zebra brain thinks I’m ready to attempt it I’m as safe as I can be. Rather than just ‘fixing’ an issue after it’s happened Harry also helps me to reduce the chances of injuries by planning a maintenance programme of exercises I can complete; and adapts these to fit my competition schedule and the randomness of my fluctuating EDS needs.

I’ll continue gymnastics for as long as my Chimp brain enjoys it and my Zebra brain and body allows it. I may never move up from novice to intermediate level, but as long as I’m safe and happy then I’ll continue training and competing. 🦓🐵🤸🏻♀️🥇

Colette Young (Team Zodiac Adult Gymnastics Squad Captain)