Namita Nayyar:
During the Covid pandemic. Tell us more about your routine to remain fit in those challenging times?
Ilona Hannich:
In the first lockdown, we would organize ourselves with online training sessions. I did a lot of handstand trainings and stretching at home. Luckily, for handstands you don’t need much space. Also, I went outside for a run or did some gymnastics and body weight training in the garden. I also had a barrel in my mum’s garden, so I often went there to train on the barrel.
After some months, athletes in the national team we were allowed to train again with some restrictions, so I could go back to an almost normal training schedule.
Namita Nayyar:
You have suffered a broken arm, a ruptured spleen, and a compressed spine during your career. In sports like Equestrian vaulting how were you able to overcome any physical or sports injury setbacks and what advice can you give to those in a similar situation.
Ilona Hannich:
There were some injuries and setbacks I had to take, and all of them needed patience. But I always had good supervision and advice from my sports doctor and physiotherapists, so I was never alone in the journey to recovery. This played a major role. Also, I also tried to quickly have a rehab plan I could follow, which always much more is motivating than just spending your days hoping it gets better. I tried to focus and my progress and what was better than yesterday instead of what I couldn’t do anymore. Which was, of course, not always easy.
All those factors would be my advice: Look for some really good sports doctors and physiotherapists that have an understanding of high-level sports or the demands of your particular sport. Form a plan with little steps that also allows you to see your progress. Work on your mindset and always know that it is normal it takes time to build trust and your abilities again, but it will come back.
Namita Nayyar:
What do you wish to say about the website Womenfitness.net and the message for its visitors?
Ilona Hannich:
I would say it’s amazing to give a platform to women in general, and women in sports. I would tell every girl and woman that they can be proud of what they do, what they have already achieved and that there is so much potential in each of us. They don’t have to hide at all. You’re amazing as you are now and don’t have to look or be any different. When you do something: Do it for yourself.
Namita Nayyar:
Advice and motivational words to the inspiring and budding Equestrian Vaulting girls, who all are your fans and shall like to know from you for their climb to the ladder of success in the field of Equestrian Vaulting?
Ilona Hannich:
No matter where you stand and which level you’re at: Your passion itself is enough. I love that you are doing this sport, and that you are part of this community. I made it to the top of the world from the very bottom, so I know everything is possible. Don’t let yourself be taken down by people who don’t understand you or don’t seem to believe in you. You have it in your hands to believe in yourself and to put in the work you need to achieve your very own goals. Take reflected decisions that pave the way towards the life you want. Surround yourself with people and things that give you a good energy. Believe in you.
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar, President of womenfitness.net, and should not be reproduced, copied, or hosted in part or in full anywhere without express permission.
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