Q&A with 2x Trampoline Gymnastics Olympian Aliaksei "Alexi" Shostak

Aliaksei "Alexi" Shostak has traveled a unique path as the son of accredited Belarusian gymnasts to a 2x U.S. Olympian in Trampoline Gymnastics. 

Along the way, he's learned many insights on both the physical and mental aspects of sport, and how that translates to a personal journey of success and fulfillment. 

We at Springfree Trampoline recently chatted with Alexi to discuss his journey from aspiring professional athlete to the grand stage of the Olympics.

Banner image courtesy of USA Gymnastics. 

1. How Big of an Impact Did Your Parents Have on Your Interest in Trampolining & Tumbling? 

"My parents had a huge impact on my interest in Trampoline & Tumbling. My father is a 2x Olympian in Artistic Gymnastics. He competed for the country of Belarus in the 1996 Atlanta Games, and the 2000 Sydney Games. My mother also had a Gymnastics & Ski background. When they moved to the United States to coach gymnastics, my parents became my first coaches. We were always in the gym together." 

2. What Was it Like Transitioning from Living in Belarus to the U.S. as a Child?

"When I moved to the United States at the age of 6, I really had no clue what was going on. I remember leaving my family in Belarus, hopping on a plane, and arriving in my current home of 23 years: Louisiana. I acclimated rather quickly, learning English and going to school here in less than 6 months. Making friends was rather easy, I got along with mostly everyone. One of the craziest culture shocks for me as a 6 year old was American TV. In Belarus, we only had cartoons play on Saturdays at a specific time in the mornings. So to come to the United States and realize that they had WHOLE channels dedicated to it, was mind-blowing."  

3. When Did You Know That You Had a Chance to Be a Professional Athlete?

"My realization that I could take Trampoline to the professional level, came at the age of 15. I moved two hours away from Mandeville Louisiana, to Lafayette Louisiana, in order to further pursue my athletic career. My current coach, Dmitri Poliaroush, helped me realize that I had the potential to become an Olympian. Fast forward 13 years later, and I am now a 2x Olympian in pursuit of a 3rd Olympic Games."

4. What Is Your Proudest Accomplishment as a Professional Athlete?

"My Proudest Accomplishment as a Professional Athlete would have to be my two trips to the Olympic Games. I've also secured World Medal & World Cup Medals along the way. Putting the results aside though, I'm also very proud of the person I've become throughout my athletic career. I have the sport of Trampoline to thank for that, and I hope that all of those who participate in sports at any level come to this realization as well. Medals and Trophies are nice and shiny, your character however, should always be the brightest thing about you."

5. What Does a Typical Day Look Like for You When Training?

"A typical training day for me consists of two hours of Trampoline training, as well as some form of conditioning/strength training. Closer to competition time, we will have two training sessions a day to really dial in on the consistency of our routines. Recovery is also very important, so I'll take about another half hour or so a day to focus on stretching/mobility."

6. What Does a Typical Day Look Like for You When Not Training?

"A typical offday for me consists of mostly just hanging out. I'll sleep in if I can, spend some time with my cat (his name is Gianni), and hang out with my friends. I love being outdoors. I also love to cook. It reminds me a lot of Trampoline, because when you do it right, it becomes a meditative art."

7. What Life Lessons Have You Learned from Your Time as a Professional Athlete? 

"There are few life lessons I've learned as a professional athlete.

-Trust the process. You may not achieve things as quickly as you'd like, and at times it may feel like your goals are so far away from your reach. Step by step & day by day you'll realize that if you approach your goals with intention, & discipline, you will find success in your life, no matter the outcome.  

-Discipline is our Destiny. I learned this from a mentor of mine. You & Solely you are responsible for going after the goals and dreams you have in life. This doesn't mean that you can't ask for help, what it does mean though is that only YOU can decide what's important to you and how bad do you want it. What are you willing to sacrifice to live the life of your dreams? 

-Community is key. The road to the top can become rather lonely. Remember that it's not just about you. Immerse yourself with family, friends, and your community. Your shared love with one another will be there when you become the best, or when you're down on your luck and are in need of support. Cultivate these relationships, for they will always be there, even when it's time to hang up that uniform for good." 

8. What Are Your Future Goals in Trampoline?

"My future goals in the sport of Trampoline are; to become a World's & World Games Medalist, Secure More World Cup Medals, and compete at my 3rd Olympic Games in LA 2028."

9. What Advice Would You Give to Aspiring Gymnasts/Athletes? 

"My advice to all aspiring Gymnasts/Athletes is go after your wildest dreams, hold them dear to your heart, and never give up. You are capable of anything you set your mind to. Allow your heart to be the compass, and you will never be lost." 

A big thank you to Alexi for sharing his journey and wisdom with us! Follow @aliaksei_shostak and @springfreetrampoline on Instagram for more engaging content to brighten your day.