Do alto rendimento para o picadeiro : a transição de carreira da ginástica artística para o circo

Abstract

Since the beginning of the 21st century, many high-performance athletes from Brazilian Artistic Gymnastics have chosen to migrate to the circus after the end of their sports careers. In seeking to understand this phenomenon, the aim of this study was to investigate sports retirement and the career transition of former Brazilian artistic gymnasts to the circus, more specifically, to the Canadian companies Cirque du Soleil and Cavalia. This is a qualitative study, with data collected through semi-structured interviews. The research sample consisted of 12 former gymnasts, over 18 years old, selected through purposive sampling. For data analysis, Thematic Analysis was employed, allowing the identification, organization, analysis, and reporting of patterns within the data through detailed organization and description. Both voluntary and involuntary reasons for retirement were identified, including injuries, being released from clubs, and personal choices. The research also highlighted the complexity of the transition to post-competitive life and the need for adequate support. Many former gymnasts found new opportunities in the circus. The data revealed that intrinsic motivation for joining the circus stemmed from the pursuit of self-fulfillment, learning a new language, the circus lifestyle, leveraging athletic experience, and an appreciation for the arts. Extrinsic motivations included the desire to live abroad, travel opportunities, financial gain, and the influence of close individuals. The transition process to the circus presented challenges that fostered personal and professional growth through more flexible training and increased responsibility as performers. The study emphasizes the importance of ongoing support and evidence-based interventions to ensure the well-being of athletes in their new journeys