Golden twins Dina and Arina Averina share secret to their success

Could that mantra really be the secret to success as a rhythmic gymnast?

Dina Averina, one half of Russia's twin sensations the Averinas, thinks so.

"You come off the podium, you forget about all your titles and start working again so that you can go forward to your new goals," she told the FIG.

Sharing success

The 2018 season has been nearly perfect for Dina. She entered five events at the Worlds held in Sofia, Bulgaria, clinching the title in every one, including her second straight All-around gold.

Another major All-around title awarded this year, meanwhile, was also won by an Averina. Dina's twin Arina took the European Championships crown in Guadalajara, Spain.

Between them, the Averinas have won almost every major individual title since compatriot Margarita Mamun took Rio 2016 Olympic All-around gold.

"I think it's all because we love rhythmic gymnastics," Dina said.

"We work hard and we fully trust and listen to our coaches, set our goals and just go forward to achieve them."

Extending Russia's dominance

The 20-year-olds have been leading the Russian team since 2017, when they made their senior debut.

And despite winning every event between them since then, Dina admits they haven't celebrated any of their successes.

"Everyone has a different understanding of the word 'celebrate'," she said. "We simply analyse our performances and try to improve something from competition to competition."

Russia have won every Olympic gold medal, in both the group and individual competitions, since the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

The Averina sisters want to continue with this success.

"We are preparing a new programme and we want to surprise everyone in the new season and show the best we can," said Dina.

"And, of course, we are going to qualify for the World Championships and get our tickets to the upcoming Olympic Games."