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.

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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

According to Cleveland Clinic, the twisties are defined as “a mental block that creates a dangerous disconnect between mind and body while gymnasts are airborne.”

From Salon • Aug. 1, 2024

Stephany Coakley, the senior associate athletic director for Mental Health Wellness and Performance at Temple and certified mental performance consultant, told Salon the twisties are usually caused by a stressful event.

From Salon • Aug. 1, 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