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The Gymnast Allergic to Exercise

Natasha Coates, who suffers with a rare condition Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, explains how despite being alergic to exercise, gymnastics has helped to keep her alive

Natasha Coates suffers with a rare condition called Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. It means her body struggles to fight disease and makes her allergic to many everyday things, including exercise. However it hasn't stopped Natasha pursuing her sporting dreams. Although not a Paralympic discipline, last week Natasha won a medal on every piece of apparatus at the British championships. Despite spending more time in the hospital than training, she says gymnastics is helping her stay alive.

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Photo: Photo: Natasha Coates with medals. Credit: Natasha Coates

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24 minutes

Last on

Sat 1 Apr 2017 09:06GMT

Broadcast

  • Sat 1 Apr 2017 09:06GMT

Podcast