Gymnastics Today

 What does gymnastics consist of?

Gymnastics consists of floor (tumbling),vault, beam, and bars. Trampolines and safety pits are also used during practice. Safety pits are fun for children, but they are used for safety purposes. While practicing new skills, the gymnast will land in the safety pit rather than on the floor. Spring floors are used for tumbling.

What type of gear is needed to participate in gymnastics?

When working on the bars, gymnasts should use hand grips to avoid blisters. Chalk is used to prevent slipping, and it is provided by the gym. Leotards are worn during practice and competition. There is no need for sports shoes because gymnasts perform with bare feet.

What are common injuries associated with gymnastics?

* Sprained ankles

 

* Sprained wrists

* Dislocation of the elbow

* SLAP (Superior Labrum, Anterior-Posterior) abrasions in the shoulder

* ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) trauma to the knee

* Meniscus (part of the knee) injury

* Injury to the Achilles tendon

* Lower back pain caused by strains, sprains, fractures, or a disorder of the disc

During my 12 years of tumbling and gymnastics, the only injuries I suffered were multiple ankle sprains and pain in my lower back. I do have to say that my ankles are still weakened to this very day. Occasionally, my ankle will collapse during walking or other activities. While in gymnastics my lower back ached much of the time.

Every year, more than 100,000 injuries associated with gymnastics are treated in the U.S. Gymnasts should always warm-up and cool down. They should also wear any braces, pads, or bandages needed when injuries occur. Ankle bandages were common when I participated in gymnastics. Gymnasts should always have a spotter when learning new moves. A spotter, which is usually the coach, will help a gymnast perform their move and prevent them from falling.

Who should take gymnastics?

Anyone can benefit from gymnastics. It provides a great workout, and it builds muscle as well as flexibility. When I was in gymnastics I could do 20 pullups and run a mile in under eight minutes. Gymnastics is most beneficial to those who want to become cheerleaders, pursue a career as a gymnastics coach, compete competitively, or compete in the Olympics