Birmingham's rhythmic gymnast and Team England Ambassador Mimi Cesar, may well have discovered some new moves for her latest routines after trying out Bhangra for the first time in the city this week as preparations for the 2022 Commonwealth Games there gather pace.

The 23 year-old, took part in the Bhangra fitness class run by the Nachda Sansaar School of Bhangra in Perry Barr close to Alexander Stadium where the opening ceremony of the Games will take place on July 27th, 2022.

Bhangra originates from the Punjab region of South Asia and is popular in a city, which has one of largest Asian populations in the UK.

“Bhangra is a massive part of our culture in Birmingham so it was great to give it a go and find out what it’s all about,” said Cesar.

“It was really fun. I feel like I have good rhythm as I do lots of routines to music so that did help with the co-ordination and staying in time with the beat of the music.”

Cesar, who trains at Birmingham GMAC (Gymnastics and Marshall Arts Centre) next door to the Alexander Stadium, was one of 25 athletes chosen as Team England Ambassadors for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games last year. That experience gave her a glimpse of what is to come in her home city in just over three years.

“Being in the Gold Coast as a Team England Ambassador was such an honour for me. The buzz there was amazing and I don’t think people in Birmingham quite realise yet how big the Commonwealth Games is going to be here.

“To have the opportunity to take part in a Commonwealth Games in your home country is one thing, but to have it in you’re home town is insane. I train at the GMAC and to think that the opening ceremony is going to take place next door at the Alexander Stadium is unreal.

"I still can’t believe the Games are coming to Birmingham – it’s so exciting and I can’t wait.”