Alexandra Trusova Explores Long Jump During Athletics Week

Figure skater Alexandra Trusova is preparing to surprise fans by taking on an unexpected role during Athletics Week in Moscow, where she is set to compete in the long jump. The information was confirmed by Yuri Borzakovsky, the former head coach of Russia’s national athletics team, who also noted that the exact discipline for Trusova would be announced closer to the event.

“Sasha will definitely attend Athletics Week, but the specific event remains a secret for now. Stay tuned for official announcements from the federation,” Borzakovsky said.

How should Trusova’s foray into athletics be evaluated? In general, athletes sometimes switch sports or explore new disciplines. Transitioning from one athletic pursuit to another, or even moving between sports, is a normal practice, and Borzakovsky welcomed the possibility with a positive outlook.

“Great results aren’t guaranteed, but the effort matters”

Olympic and world champion in long jump and triple jump, Tatyana Lebedeva, acknowledged that Trusova has the physical attributes to compete. However, she cautioned that exceptional results require specialized training and technique. Lebedeva also noted that Trusova’s participation could raise public interest in athletics.

“If the goal is to popularize track and field, that’s wonderful. It could attract younger fans,” Lebedeva commented. “As a jumper, strong technique and rhythm are essential. Trusova has physical gifts, but the jump requires refined stepping and flexibility.” Lebedeva added that the experience could help Trusova reset mentally and prepare for upcoming competitions. After a challenging season, a fresh challenge may provide a valuable break and a new perspective. The athlete is still young, so trying a different sport seems reasonable. Injuries are possible with non-specific training, but if there is genuine interest, she should pursue it,” Lebedeva told socialbites.ca.

“Maybe she’s a natural long jumper”

State Duma deputy Svetlana Zhurova, Olympic champion in speed skating, observed that athletes sometimes stay active in the off-season by trying unfamiliar disciplines. She also hinted at the possibility that Trusova might consider aiming for the Russian Olympic track and field team in the future.

“This is a common part of preparation. Athletes use general training tools and compete in different events during transitions,” Zhurova explained. “I, for one, have experience in athletics and remember contemplating shifts after major events. It’s a normal way to broaden skills and maintain form.”

Zhurova suggested that Trusova’s long jump potential remains uncertain since she has not competed professionally in that event. Still, she emphasized the value of the experience as a mental and physical reset, offering a fresh competitive environment that can benefit an athlete returning to figure skating later on.

“If Trusova succeeds, it could open new doors for her. The path in track and field is different, and there’s room for growth even if top results aren’t immediate,” Zhurova concluded.

“This doesn’t mean a departure from figure skating”

Figure skating colleague Katarina Gerbolt stressed that Trusova’s foray into long jump should not be read as a plan to quit skating. Many athletes explore other disciplines as part of cross-training or personal interest. Gerbolt pointed to Evgeni Plushenko, who has played tennis, as an example of athletes pursuing multiple passions.

“Trying something new can be a personal exploration, not a signal of retirement. Competing in another sport occasionally is fairly common, and it should be seen as another hobby rather than a commitment to abandon figure skating,” Gerbolt said.

Gerbolt also noted that predicting Trusova’s exact prospects in long jump is difficult since she has not competed at a professional level in that event. Still, she believed the experience could be valuable for personal growth and confidence, even if top results remain unlikely due to the long-term development required in this discipline.

“People are surprised, but it’s not surprising”

Among the varied reactions from the sports community, Alexander Gorshkov, president of the Russian Figure Skating Federation, offered a candid take. His response reflected surprise and curiosity about the move, with a note of caution about the practical implications for Trusova’s career.

“It’s unexpected. It’s hard to predict how this will unfold. For now, it’s a moment to observe rather than to draw conclusions,” Gorshkov said, acknowledging the unfolding discussion as part of the broader conversation about athletes exploring cross-disciplinary opportunities.