In January 2025, Temple University gymnast Kyrstin Johnson lit up social media when her floor routine to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” went viral. But behind the standout performance is an even more powerful story—one of resilience, representation, and breaking barriers in collegiate gymnastics.
Expressing Herself Through Gymnastics
Kyrstin Johnson, a sophomore, says her viral routine is more than just choreography. It’s about showing her personality, owning the moment, and inspiring others.
“I am able to show my personality and have fun and just take it in the moment,” Johnson said. Fans now attend meets just to see her perform.
She started gymnastics at the age of 10—a relatively late age in a sport where many begin as toddlers. But what some saw as a delay, Kyrstin turned into a strength.
Making History at an HBCU
Johnson earned a full scholarship to Talladega College in Alabama, one of only two historically Black colleges in the U.S. with a gymnastics program.
“I never had that experience with girls that look like me on the team,” she shared. “I had an African American coach that was female. I could relate to her.”
At Talladega, she made history by becoming the first and only HBCU gymnast to win a national vault title, earning the title of vault champion and becoming a four-time All-American.
A Heartbreaking Setback—and a Brave Decision
Unfortunately, Talladega College cut its gymnastics program due to lack of funding. Johnson was left with a painful choice: give up gymnastics or find a new path forward.
“I had to make a big decision in a short amount of time,” she said.
Instead of walking away, she walked onto the team at Temple University in Philadelphia—without a scholarship, and without knowing what the future held.
“Why let someone take something from me when I can continue somewhere else?” Johnson said, determined not to let her passion fade.
A New Beginning at Temple University
The move from Alabama to Philadelphia came with challenges. Johnson admits she experienced culture shock, but says she was met with support and acceptance at Temple.
Now thriving with her new team, Kyrstin is not only making waves in gymnastics but also planning for a future beyond sports—she dreams of becoming a veterinarian.