ACE Athlete Profile: Janine Murray

How often do you train?

My training involves eight sessions a week over six days. This is made up of25 hours in the gym and then I do extra aerobic training such as running and swimming.

What major tournaments are coming up?

World University Games, the Rhythmic Gymnastics Berlin Grand Prix and the 2011 World Championships.

What do you do outside of gymnastics?

I am currently studying sport science at UWA and I coach gymnastics when I can, and do some casual waitressing. I study full time with three units and am currently in my fourth and final year and finishing my degree this year.

Do you have a tip for athletes on how to manage their lifestyle/work/uni?

Try and be as well organized as you can with time management and knowing your sport events so you can make sure they don’t clash with uni commitments.

Know the requirements of your Uni course, so when you’re absent you can still manage the units. Enrol in units you can manage when you are away.

The use of online support and lectures are great when you’re away, but try to go to as many classes as possible when home because there is valuable information in labs and workshops that you miss out on while being away.

How did you manage the load leading into exams?

I maintained the same training schedule during the exams because having the balance of sport and study is really good and works well for me. I need the balance of sport and the limited time so I know I only have a set time to get my study done. I also prioritize with a few trainings in my own time to make time for a bit of extra study

How do you manage uni when you’re away in competition?

Being organized so the lecturers know well in advanced that I am away so I don’t get any penalties for when I am away. They then leave it up to me to keep on top of the lecture and reading content.

I prefer not to study on competition days so I can stay focused on my sporting performance. When travelling on the plane or on rest days I will try and fit in some study. When I come back from competition I arrange to catch up with the lecturers to check I’m on track and up to date with assignments.