Chalked Up: My Life in Elite Gymnastics

Jennifer Sey became a gymnast at age six, inspired by dreams of emulating Nadia Comaneci. By age eleven, her early success had made her one of America's elite gymnasts, leading her family to make significant sacrifices to support her career. As her ambitions grew, Sey increasingly prioritized winning over her own needs, health, and well-being, while the adults around her failed to acknowledge her deteriorating condition. Chalked Up presents Sey's account of her experiences in elite gymnastics, examining the darker aspects of the sport. The memoir addresses eating disorders, demanding parents, abusive coaching, and manipulation by business figures. It portrays how a young girl's initial dreams became overshadowed by the agendas and influence of the adults in her life. This updated edition includes a new introduction.