TOP ROMANIAN ATHLETE: AT YOUR RESORT I CAN CONCENTRATE ONLY ON MY TRAINING
Before the Olympics in Paris you could also see Alina Rotaru Kottman (32), whose main discipline is long jump, in the x-bionic® sphere. Among the strong competition at the Olympics, she “jumped” her way to seventh place. “Although my first visit to the x-bionic® sphere was not the happiest, as I had an accident during the competition, I immediately fell in love with the resort. I wanted to come back,” recalls the athlete.
This year’s Summer Olympics was not the first in your life. How was it different for you from the Olympics in Rio or Tokyo?
My participation in each Olympics is different and unique in its own way. I learn something new every time. The Olympics in Paris was an amazing experience, there was an exciting and energetic atmosphere. I was pleasantly surprised by the great spectator turnout and support. It was different from both the Rio and Tokyo Olympics because of the unique French culture and the unparalleled energy of Paris.
In your event – the long jump – you came 7th. How satisfied were you with your performance?
I was happy with it, although I know there is still room for improvement. The competition and competitiveness were very intense.
You trained at the x-bionic® sphere this summer for the Olympics, why do you keep coming back? I’ve trained here for several big competitions, including the European Championships in Munich and the World Championships in Budapest, where I won a bronze medal last year. The resort has the facilities and equipment that allow me to concentrate fully on specific aspects of my training. This helps me to achieve maximum performance at the highest level competitions. Was your preparation for the Olympics different from preparing for other competitive events? Yes, because of the Olympics my preparation was much more intense and focused. I had to be much more precise in my training and pay attention to even the smallest details. The x-bionic® sphere provided me with the perfect environment for this level of training as well. Part of my training this time was also mental training, which was crucial for the Olympics.
According to your words, you fell in love with the x-bionic® sphere, but your first visit did not go well. What happened?
I first came across the Slovak Olympic Training Centre during the 50th P-T-S meet in 2022. Unfortunately, I don’t have very fond memories of it because I slipped and injured myself during one of my jumps. Aside from that, however, I was able to see the local fields and facilities through the competition, and despite the circumstances, I fell in love with the local stadium, accommodations, and food. That’s why, after two months of convalescence, I decided to return with my coach Mihai Corucle. It was exactly 10 days before my participation in the European Championships in Munich, when I stood in the same stadium where the injury occurred.
And how did it feel to return to the place where you had the inconvenience?
It was a very strong moment. It helped me overcome the block and it made me mentally stronger. I’m grateful for that because I like going to the x-bionic® sphere because of the very high level training conditions and the opportunities for rehabilitation and recovery. Together with the calm atmosphere it makes it the perfect place to prepare for important races. Every visit to the resort helps me to achieve great results. The consistent level of support and helpfulness I receive here is second to none.
What are you most satisfied with?
I especially appreciate that the resort (especially the fields and wellness center) is designed to cater to the needs of elite athletes, and this allows me to concentrate solely on my training. The atmosphere is very professional and accommodating to my needs
Source: x-bionic® sphere
