Chelsea Werner, an inspiring young woman, 4x United States Special Olympics Gymnastics Champion, 2x World Champion and Model 
Read our interview and find out more about the Women’s Best athlete!
Name: Chelsea Werner
Location: San Francisco Bay Area, California USA
Height: 4’10” (147 cm)
Instagram: @showtimewerner
Can you share more about yourself and what you are doing?
I just returned from a month in London. I signed with Milk Management in London. It was a great experience. Now that I am back, I am focused on training for my competition season for gymnastics, which starts in January.
When did your journey with sports start?
I started Special Olympics Gymnastics when I was 8 years old.
Can you tell us more about your achievements as a competitive gymnast?
I have won the U.S. Special Olympics National Championship 4 consecutive years. I have won 2 world championships. The first world championship was in London and the second was in Italy. I have never been defeated at a National or World meet.
After my second world title, I decided to compete in USA Gymnastics with my nondisabled peers. I love having teammates that challenge and support me.
Does having a disability change how you approach your sport?
It takes me much longer to learn new skills. Having a good coach makes a huge difference. I need a coach that has high expectations and that challenges and encourages me. I have developed a very good work ethic and I am very motivated to succeed.
How have you delt with setbacks in your sport? What kept you going?
All gymnasts have setbacks that is just part of our sport. I have dealt with a lot sprained ankles and rough falls on the balance beam. It takes time to build back the confidence but the coaches are a big help with that.
How does gymnastics make you feel? How has sport impacted your life?
Gymnastics makes me feel very proud. It has given me a lot of confidence and a great work ethic.
In addition to your gymnastics specific training, what else do your workout routines include?
I like training at the gym and have added CrossFit into my training schedule.
You are also a model and have featured in numerous campaigns, and have been on the cover of Teen Vogue and Dazed Magazine. How did your modelling career start and what do you enjoy about being in front of the camera?
H&M saw me on the Today Show and reached out. I did a campaign for them in Havana, Cuba. After that, I was hooked. I have always been very comfortable in front of a camera–I love being in front of the camera.
As a Down Syndrome role model and advocate, what do wish to show to the world?
I like to show that individuals with Down Syndrome are hardworking and very capable. We have dreams like everyone else and just need the opportunity to reach our full potential.
Let’s talk about other hobbies, what else do you enjoy doing? Or what does the perfect day look like for you?
I love hip-hop dancing. A perfect day would be hanging out with my best friend Karina. We love shopping, going out for lunch, and doing anything girlie.
Is there a message you have for young girls who are starting out in gymnastics or any other sport?
Find a sport that you really love. It is important to have a great coach that believes in you and your dreams.
Fun question: How did you get the nickname ‘ShowTime’?
My Dad named me that. In gymnastics right before you compete you are given a short, timed warm-up period. I usually would make a lot of mistakes or falls during this period. When it was time to officially compete I would do perfect routines. Everyone was always surprised. That is when my Dad started calling me “ShowTime”. I was at my best under pressure.
What Women’s Best supplements do you use? When and why?
I like using protein powders for all sorts of things. I use it for baking and for smoothies. I also love Pre-Workout. It is great when I have back-to-back workouts. It gives me the extra boost I need. The Smart Bars are great too, I always keep several in my sports bag.
And, what is your favorite Women’s Best sportswear collection and color?
My favorite Women’s Best collection is constantly changing. Women’s Best is always coming out with new colors and styles. I have a new favorite every week!
Lastly, you decided to collab with Women’s Best. Why did you choose to be part of the community?
I happened to come across a Women’s Best post on lnstagram. I loved an outfit that I saw.
I looked up Women’s Best and loved that they represented diversity. I reached out to see if they would be interested in a collaboration. They responded right away and sent me a few outfits for me to try. I loved how the outfits fit me perfectly and were so comfortable. The quality is amazing. Between the great outfits and the positivity, that Women’s Best represents it was an easy decision to join the team!
