Introduction
INTRODUCTION
Artistic gymnastics is a discipline of gymnastics where gymnasts perform short routines (ranging from approximately 30 to 90 seconds) on different apparatus, with less time for vaulting . The sport is governed by the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG), which designs the Code of Points and regulates all aspects of international elite competition. Within individual countries, gymnastics is regulated by national federations, such as BAGA in Great Britain and USA Gymnastics in the United States. Artistic gymnastics is a popular spectator sport at the Summer Olympic Games and in numerous other competitive environments.
Artistic gymnastics is broken into 10 levels. Levels 1-3 are developmental and levels 4-10 are competitive. Levels 4-6 must perform compulsory (mandatory) routines in competition. Level 7-10 gymnasts will perform optional routines that are designed by the gymnast and her coach. Once a gymnast is at level 10, he or she is considered elite and able to compete on the national and international stage.
Task
RULES
Judges look for certain elements and technical skills when a gymnast competes.
- Form: Tight legs, pointed toes, flexibility and proper body positioning.
- Height and Distance: The vertical height and distance covered when executing moves off all the apparatuses to show power, strength, and control.
- Stuck Landing: The less movement the better; feet should remain planted once a landing is completed.
- Individuality and routine creativity: A routine with unique, artistic, or acrobatic components.
Process
PROCESS
The methods used and knowledge required by 16 elite men's gymnastic coaches in the development of skill progressions. Following in-depth interviews, a conceptual model representing the process of skill progression development was generated. We found that:
(1) elite gymnastic coaches developed skill progressions through experimental practice, reflection and critical inquiry;
(2) the development of skill progressions was underpinned by the coaches acquiring a mindset based on four further sub-components (i.e. skill progression refinement, current coaching knowledge, mental imagery and biomechanical understanding);
(3) coaches identified the importance of replication of the spatial and temporal characteristics of the final skill.
The results are consistent with task analysis, reflective practice and the principle of specificity. Practically, these findings suggest the need to develop coaches with a more objective approach to skill progression development and a greater understanding of the controlling mechanisms inherent in such practices.
Evaluation
EQUIPMENT
Still rings
Two parallel rings 50cm apart, suspended from a cable and straps and held, one in each hand, for a series of exercises in men's artistic gymnastics particularly requiring stillness of the body; also called the "rings".
Uneven bars
An apparatus in women's artistic gymnastics with a top bar 2.4m above the floor and a lower bar 1.6m high, used for a continuous series of grip changes, releases, new grasps and other complex moves.
High bar
A bar standing 2.75 metres high, used in men's artistic gymnastics; also called the "horizontal bar".
Parallel bars (Artistic)
An apparatus consisting of two wooden rails on uprights, adjustable in height and used for swinging, vaulting and balancing exercises in men's artistic gymnastics.
Pommel horse
A solid apparatus 115 centimetres high with two handles, or pommels, on top that men in artistic gymnastics use for a series of manoeuvres defined by complex hand placements and body positions while holding themselves above the apparatus.
Plane
An imaginary surface where moves are performed, i.e. lateral, frontal, horizontal or diagonal.
Diagonal plane
An imaginary surface at less than a 90-degree angle to the floor, where moves are performed.
Horizontal plane
An imaginary surface, level with the ground, where moves are performed.
Lateral plane
An imaginary surface to the side of, and parallel to, the body, where moves are performed.
Safety platform
A large, thick mat that sits on the floor at each end of the trampoline to cushion the impact if anyone falls from the apparatus.
Vault
A solid apparatus similar to the pommel horse, but lacking handles, and used in men's and women's artistic gymnastics for a variety of handsprings from a running approach.
Beatboard
The springboard used in the men's and women's vault.
Conclusion