Mongolian contortionist Ulziibuyan Mergen discusses her career journey from a young performer with Cirque du Soleil to her current role as a coach specializing in safe, balanced flexibility training.
After years of performing with Cirque du Soleil and other companies, I realised that many young contortionists were training without proper guidance. I saw injuries that could have been prevented. I wanted to use my experience to help the next generation train safely and develop their skills in a balanced way.
I focus on building a strong foundation before pushing for extreme flexibility. Many coaches rush students into advanced poses too quickly. I believe in progressive training — strengthening the muscles around each joint as you increase range of motion. It takes longer but the results are much more sustainable and safer.