Children of Asia Games alumni often choose professional sports, but their story doesn't end there. The values discovered during the Games - discipline, perseverance and the desire to win—help them become leaders in any field. Ivan Neustroev, who won bronze in traditional jumps of the 2nd Children of Asia Games in 2000, now saves other athletes from injury and helps them return to action. In our interview, he shared how his athletic training helped him in his medical practice and why health should always come first.
Ivan, could you please tell us a little about yourself and how your athletic background relates to your profession?
— I work as a traumatologist and orthopedist and also practice osteopathy and manual therapy. My work involves dealing with injuries. Sports are always associated with injuries, so athletes are my frequent patients. Although, to be honest, my career choice wasn't directly related to sports, however, the experience was invaluable for understanding their needs.
In 2000, you competed in the 2nd Children of Asia Games in traditional jumps. How did you start sports? What attracted you to this particular discipline?
— I started sports at 11, and my father, Alexander Dmitrievich Neustroev, was a big role model for me. He was a physical education teacher, a Master of Sports in traditional jumps, a Candidate for Master of Sports in freestyle wrestling, and an excellent volleyball player. My first major victory was first place in regional traditional jumps competitions. This strengthened my love for this discipline.
Tell me about your most vivid memories of the Children of Asia Games?
— Those days were some of the best parts in my life. I literally remember everything as if it were yesterday. I made so many friends during the competitions. The moment I remember most was the awards ceremony for the combined event—I took third place.
Today, you help others achieve their goals, but now as a doctor. How does your personal experience as an athlete help you understand your patients, especially fellow athletes?
— Of course, my experience is very helpful. Many athletes with injuries come to me. I understand the psychology of an athlete who wants to return to sports as fast as possible, as well as the specifics of training and competition loads. Therefore, I consider my athletic background truly important in my work. I help my brother who is also a traditional jumper.
Was your decision to become a traumatologist a conscious decision, dictated by your athletic experience? Please, tell us about your career choice.
— When I was studying at medical school, I really wanted to become a sports doctor, but at that time, this field was not in demand in Yakutia. So, I chose a related and fundamental specialty—traumatology and orthopedics.
Based on your experience as both an athlete and a doctor, what is the key factor for building not just a successful but also a long-lasting sports career?
— Everyone, without any exception, should play sports, because action is life. But professional sports are different. In most cases, those with better health achieve excellent results. I believe the key to a long career is choosing the right sport based on a person's predisposition: body type and constitution. Tall and thin people can become good track and field athletes or volleyball players, while shorter and stronger people are better at strength sports. And it's always important to understand that professional sports are a fine line between health and illness. After all, almost every athlete gets injured. For example, I retired from sports precisely because of an injury.
To sum it up, what is your greatest achievement in life to date?
— I'm proud to have been involved in sports. Sports gave me not only many friends and acquaintances, but also endurance, determination, and self-confidence.
