Meaning: This quote is attributed to Olga Korbut, a former Soviet gymnast who is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful gymnasts in the history of the sport. The quote reflects Korbut's experience and perspective as a gymnast leading up to the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. In this quote, she describes her physical appearance and the challenges she faced as a gymnast prior to the 1972 Olympics.

Before delving into the significance of the quote, it is important to understand the context in which Olga Korbut made this statement. Born in 1955 in Grodno, Belarus, Korbut began her gymnastics training at a young age and quickly showed exceptional talent in the sport. As she progressed in her career, she faced scrutiny and challenges due to her petite stature and unorthodox gymnastics style, which deviated from the traditional norms of the sport at the time.

Korbut's statement sheds light on the prevailing attitudes toward gymnastics and body types in the early 1970s. She refers to herself as "total skinny" and "small, very strong," highlighting the physical characteristics that set her apart from the typical gymnasts of that era. Her acknowledgment of her physique and strength suggests that she was aware of the perceptions and expectations surrounding the ideal gymnast's body at the time.

Moreover, Korbut's comment about how "they may be don't like to see a gymnastics like that" reflects the resistance and skepticism she encountered due to her unconventional approach to the sport. The traditional gymnastics establishment may have been resistant to embracing her innovative style and physique, as it deviated from the established norms of that time. Korbut's willingness to acknowledge this resistance demonstrates her self-awareness and determination to challenge existing conventions within the sport.

The latter part of the quote, "Nineteen seventy two supposed to be change somewhere," alludes to the transformative impact that she anticipated her participation in the 1972 Olympics would have. Korbut recognized the potential for her presence at the Olympic Games to catalyze a shift in the perception of gymnastics and potentially pave the way for a new era in the sport. Her use of the word "change" signifies her belief that the 1972 Olympics could serve as a turning point in the history of gymnastics, marking a departure from the traditional approach and embracing innovation and diversity.

As history would reveal, Olga Korbut's performance at the 1972 Olympics indeed proved to be a watershed moment for gymnastics. Her electrifying routines, characterized by daring acrobatics and expressive flair, captivated audiences and judges alike, earning her multiple medals and accolades. Korbut's success not only solidified her status as a trailblazer in the sport but also revolutionized the way gymnastics was perceived and practiced.

In conclusion, Olga Korbut's quote encapsulates her resilience, determination, and foresight as she navigated the challenges and expectations of the gymnastics world leading up to the 1972 Olympics. Her willingness to defy conventions and push the boundaries of the sport ultimately reshaped the landscape of gymnastics, inspiring future generations of gymnasts to embrace diversity, creativity, and individuality.