twisties

American  

[twis-teez] / ˈtwɪs tiz /

plural noun

Gymnastics.

1. a loss of spatial awareness or physical orientation resulting in an inability to execute gymnastics skills previously within an athlete’s repertoire.

---

Etymology

Origin of twisties

First recorded in 2021; twist ( def. ) + -y ² ( def. ) + -s ³ ( def. )

Example Sentences

But she suffered the "twisties" -- a mental block triggered by stress or anxiety -- and withdrew from events to prioritise her mental health.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

Psychologist Dr. Carla Manly, who has had athletes as clients in her private practice, told Salon the twisties can worsen because of anxiety.

From Salon • Aug. 1, 2024

After facing a bout of the "twisties" in Tokyo, which led to her dropping out of the competition entirely, Biles' Paris performance so far has been a story of redemption.

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2024

Classic — the 26-year-old’s first meet since her 2021 Tokyo Games was interrupted by a bout with “ the twisties ” — the words “Paris” and “2024” didn’t escape her lips.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 6, 2023

She looked sure and smooth on the balance beam, the only individual event final in which she was able to compete in Tokyo after her bout with the twisties.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2023