In gymnastics, mistakes are inevitable.

Kaitlin Hines is recreational director for all of CNY Gym Centre’s locations. She is the first to admit that the sport is demanding.

“And there’s a lot of pressure on you because what you’re doing at the gym is defying gravity,” said Hines.

When Simone Biles said she’d be withdrawing from the Olympic team final and individual all-around competition due to mental health, Hines had to take a moment to process it.

“At the end of the day, it was the best thing she needed to do to keep her healthy and safe. It was the best call,” said Hines.

Biles’ decision is what nearly everyone was talking about at the gym. Coaches said they’re happy she made that choice.

“But if she’s saying, 'I’m not in a good spot to take these physical risks,' we have to trust that,” Union College sports psychologist Dr. Wally Bzdell said.

Bzdell focuses on the mind, saying the body does the work, but the mind is the gatekeeper for the body.

In his career, Bzdell sees athletes struggling all of the time. He’s hopeful Biles making such a public move will set a new precedent for the athletic community.

“So that it doesn’t escalate to this level. Maybe we catch it sooner. Maybe the way we help them manage the stress is something that we can do that is preventative,” said Bzdell.

Coaches have the opportunity to learn how to support their athletes.

At CNY Gym Centre, all coaches and recreational staff are required to be USAG registered and Safe Sport certified, a series of trainings that teach sexual, emotional and physical misconduct awareness and education, as well as mandatory reporting.

Simone continues to shed light on an element of sports most athletes know is true — they are people first. And they hope the rest of the world will begin to see that, too.

“And see that it is possible that their child, even if they’re in an extremely competitive environment, can take themselves away for a moment just for their sense of self and safety,” said Hines.

Competitive coaches are required to be USAG and Safe Sport certified, but that’s not the case for recreational instructors.

The USAG recommends all coaches and recreation staff seek those certifications.