«Gymnastics Shapes the Character of Athletes» : The Story of Coach Ruslana Pochtariova

Ruslana Pochtariova is an experienced coach and Candidate for Master of Sports who has spent many years training young gymnasts. In this open conversation, she shares her professional journey, training approaches, and her dream of creating a space where talented children can grow and thrive.

What successes and achievements have been key in your professional growth?

The key achievements were the successes of my students — their first medals, stepping up to higher levels of competition, the confidence they gained through training, and completing the Candidate for Master of Sports norms. Their results proved that I was moving in the right direction.My own professional accomplishments also mattered: participating in sporting events, judging, and developing routines for the Ukrainian Championships. These strengthened my confidence that I am competent and ready for larger-scale challenges.

Has your training methodology changed with experience?

Yes, my approach has become much more flexible and conscious. I’ve learned to listen to children better, adapt the workload to their age, emotional state, and individual abilities. I’ve added more choreography, stretching, emotional work, and technique development.Becoming a mother also influenced my approach — raising my own children helped me better understand the needs of today’s generation.

How do you find a common language with children and build rapport?

My rule is a combination of respect, discipline, and support. I always try to understand each child — their temperament, level of preparation, and inner motivation.It’s extremely important to create a training atmosphere where a child is not afraid to make mistakes but wants to try. That’s why individual approach and emotional comfort form the core of my work.And, of course, the partnership between “coach — athlete — parents” is crucial. Only together can we achieve real results.

What additional training have you undergone to improve as a coach?

I actively attend seminars, coaching courses, and master classes. I study teaching methods, choreography, flexibility, and sports psychology. I often stayed to observe the training sessions of the Ukrainian national team — watching, analyzing, learning from their experience.I also read extensively and review material from the world’s most successful coaches. Knowledge is readily available today, and I make constant use of this opportunity to grow as a specialist.

What early-career mistakes became valuable lessons?

At first, I was too strict and allowed very little emotional expression, striving for “perfect discipline.” Over time, I realized that a more effective approach is a balance between firmness and support.I learned to listen to children rather than only instruct them. I began talking with them more, explaining, giving real-life examples. This changed my relationships with my students and made the training process deeper and warmer.

What sets you apart from other coaches today?

My individual and attentive approach. I work not only on technique and elements — I work on the child’s personality.It’s important to me that each child grows harmoniously, learns to make decisions, take responsibility, and manage their emotions. Sport is a foundation that will help them in adult life, and I want my students to enter the world strong and confident.

What projects are you working on now?

I am actively developing the training process, improving sports programs, and working with groups of different ages.I organize training camps, competitions, and master classes, inviting Ukrainian rhythmic gymnastics stars. It’s important for me not only to teach children but also to popularize gymnastics in Ukraine.I also create routines and choreography for performances — I truly enjoy this creative process.

What do you enjoy most about your work today?

Most of all, I enjoy watching children grow — physically, emotionally, and creatively.Their courage, progress, and inner discoveries inspire me every day. I love identifying the uniqueness in each child and helping them express it through sport.

What goals do you set for the coming years?— I want to expand training possibilities and make the preparation system more comprehensive.I dream of taking my club to a new level, organizing national tournaments, traveling to international competitions, and training athletes capable of competing for top results.

What innovations would you like to bring into your work?

More modern training methods, integrated programs, and psychological exercises. I want to develop choreography, coordination, flexibility, and artistry in more creative forms.I plan to experiment with music, visual concepts, and performance styles, making children’s routines even more expressive.

How do you see the future development of your club?

I see my club as a place where professionalism, discipline, and creative freedom come together.I want it to be a platform for talented children, competitive teams, and young coaches to whom I can pass on my experience while creating comfortable working conditions.

What is the most important thing you want to pass on to your students?

Faith in themselves. Strength of character. Resilience.I want every child who trains with me to learn how to overcome challenges, work on themselves, and celebrate their own victories.Sport shapes personality — and I want this understanding to stay with them for life.