My first and last….with Nastia Liukin

BORN to two world gymnastic champions, it came as little surprise when Nastia Liukin captured all-around Olympic gold in Beijing last summer. Here she is chatting dodgy food, bad injuries and Jennifer Aniston with ‘s Chris Cottrell.

 BALANCING ACT: Olympic gold medallist Nastia Liukinwas in the gym from an early age

My first trip to the gym: Both my parents were gymnasts so it was probably around the time my dad was still competing I guess. I was about four. I don’t really remember one specific time – I was thrown into it from day one because my dad was still doing it at a high level when I was born.

My first event: It was when I was six years old, level five – it was just a district competition in Texas. I don’t think I did too well actually. I was six years old and it was my first competition. I know I was late so that wasn’t a good start!

My first international event: That was the 2002 Junior Pan American Championships in the Dominican Republic when I was 12. I won five medals there so it was a great experience for me in terms of competition.

But I remember not liking the food. I was always very picky when I was young. Other than that, it was really cool to be there. Getting on my national team and payroll was one of my favourite parts.

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Being able to wear the leotard with USA on it was a great feeling.

My first Olympic memory: Beijing was my first and only Olympic experience and I remember every single minute. From when we landed to walking into the village for the first time to the first training session is still very clear in my mind.  And walking into the arena is probably the most vivid memory.

We didn’t go to the opening ceremony because we were competing right after which was a shame but it’s all still really vivid.

GOLDEN GIRL: Nastia Liukin poses with her gold medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics (Getty Images)

My first big injury: In 2006 I got injured when I rolled my ankle and had to have surgery. I was still competing but I was out for about a year because it was still hurting. It’s probably my lowest point in gymnastics so far.

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My last takeaway: What’s that? Food? Oh, does Starbucks count?

My last album: I bought Colbie Callait – Breakthrough recently. She’s one of my favourite artists.

My last film: Love Happens with Jennifer Aniston. Yes, I really liked it.

SAY CHEESE: ‘s Chris Cottrell with Nastia Liukin at the O2 Arena

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