AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF USA GYMNASTICS

1 994

Na ional ~mnas ics • •

am n N n 5 H V I ~. ~ f

~ u ~ u s t ~4-~ 1 1 ~ ~4

Inside

August 1994 Vol. 14, #8

Transferring Files Without Pain

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Product vs. Process: A Coaching Decision

Scaredy Cat

Physical Abilities Profiles-1993 National TOPs Testing

The German Giantastics

Gymnaestrada

Kinetics of Successful and Unsuccessful Gymnastics Landings

Preschool Survey Results

Ir.u~ GYMNASTICS

Educational Materials

rr~ GYMNASTICS

(;1) , i

~eniors ! fft~ - f1' ~/ --.-

on the M(JIJ(J

Seniors On The Move Renate Rikkers - 1986 - Spiral- 256 pp Item # 3620 527.00

RenateRikkers Since the begirming of the eighties, words such as health, fitness and exercise have been a part of our daily language. It was discovered that daily ex­

ercise is a must in order to live a happy and healthy life. With this realization came the health clubs and exercise classes devoted to helping people become physically fit. This devotion, however, was directed almost exclusively to the younger generation. Very few programs have ever been designed specifically to aid the senior population in their quest for the "happier, healthier life" until this book, Seniors on the Move, by Renate Rikkers.

Seniors 011 the Move is a result of what "I have been privileged to learn while teaching seniors who were willing to experiment, react and critique [the classes]," says Renate Rikkers. The author taught his firs t senior fih1ess program over thirteen years ago at Amherst Senior Center and has continued teaching over the years.

The book contains over 100 pages of simple, yet effective exercises for the older generation. These exercises are easily and accurately performed by actual participants of Rikker's pro­gram. In addition, the necessary equipment is also included in the manual-both how to use it and way to buy it. The book also outlines ways to modify programs for the different levels of students.

Item # Size Description Quontity Price Total

SUBTOTAL

SHIPPING & HANDLING: OROfRSIISAilOUNOfRADOI3. IIS.0I·ISOADOI4, ISO.OI·IIOO ADO IS OVfR 1100.01 AOO 18

INDIANA RESIDENTS ADD 5% SALES TAX

T894 TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE

Creating Gymnastics Pyramids And Balances Joseph M. Fodera, [dO and Ernest E. Furblur, MS - 1989 - Spiral- 120 pp Item # 3614 518.00

Pyramid building is safe and fun with the thorough in­

structions and guidelines found in this guide. Choose from 268 carefully illustrated and explained formations that have all met safety requirements of gyrrmastics and cheerleading organiza­tions.

Each formation is organized according to level of difficulty and sized of pyramid or balance for easy reference. There are even various stunts labeled according to level of difficulty­from begirming to intermediate to advanced. Readers will learn proper positioning of performers, counterbalancing, assembly and disassembly of pyramids, and spotting and safety measures.

Creating Gymnastics Pyramids and Balances leads instructors, educators and coaches as they help students build balances and pyramids for up to 13 people. In addition, the authors share about 250 pyramids and balances they have performed. Both authors have been active in pyramid and acrobatic competitions at national levels and performed internationally.

Contents: Historical overview· Pyramids and Cheerleading . Objectives and Values· Principles of Teaching, Learning and Performing . Lesson Planning . Technique . Illustrations . Exhibitions· Sports Acrobatics

To order any of these books, or other educational materials and videos presented in this issue, please camplete this arder form.

USA Gymnastics Order Form Name ________________________________________________ __

Address ______________________________________________ _

City _________________________________________ _

State Zip ______________ __ Phone ______________ __

USA Gymnastics Professional Membership # ______________________________ __

Club Gymnostics Membership # ____________________________________ _

Charge: o MasterCard o VISA Exp. Date:

Card # _______________________ _

Signature: ______________________________________________ __

Send orders and make checks payable to:

USA Gymnastics, Merchandise Dept., PO 80x 5562, Indianapolis, IN 46255-5562 • 317-237-5060

Publisher Editor Production Graphic Design Men's Program Director Women's Program Director Rhythmic Program Director USA Gymnastics Board of Directors

Kathy Scanlon Stephen W. Whitlock luan Peszek Julie T. Jones Ron Galimore

Kathy Kelly

Nora Campbell

(hair: Sandy Knopp; Presidenl: KolhySronl,,; Presidenl Emeri­Ius: Mike Donohue; Amaleur Alhlelic Unian: Sian Atkinson; Americon Sokol Organization: Jerry Milan; American Tram­poline & Tumbling Association: Wayne Downing; American Turners: BeHy Heppner; Jewish Community Centers: Lori KoI,; Nalionol Associolion of (ollegiale Gymnaslics (oaches for Men: Abie Grossleld; Nalional Associalian of (allegiale Gymnostin Coaches for Women: Gail Davis; Notional Asso­ciation for Girls and Women in Sport: Dr. Mimi Murray; National Association of Women's Gymnastics Judges: Yvonne Hodge; Nalional (olleglale Alhletic Association: Jane Bells, Lou 8urkel; Nalional Federation of Siale High School Associations: Susan True; National Gymnastics Judges Association: Harry 8jerke; National High School Gymnas­tics (oaches Association: John 8rinkworth; Special Olym­pics, Inc.: Kale Fober·Hickie; U.S. Rhylhmic Gymnastics (oaches Association: Suzie DiTullio; U.S. Association of Independenl Gym Clubs: Lance Crowley; U.S. Elite (oaches Association for Men's Gymnastics: Peler Korman"; U.S. Elite Coaches Association for Women's Gymnastics: Tony Gehman, Roe Kreutzer; U.S. Men's Gymnastics Coaches Association: Marc Yancey; U.S. Sports Acrobatics Federa­tion: Bonnie Davidson; Young Men 's Christian Association of Ihe USA: Rick Dodson; USA Gymnastics National Mem­bership Directors: Men's: Jim Half, Roy Guro; Women's: Jim Anher, Julio Thompson·Arel,; Rhylhmic: Alia Svirsky, Ule All· Carberry Alhlele Direclors: Wendy Hi lliard, ,hair; Chris Waller, vice ,hair; Mi,helle DUSlerre, sec; Tanya Service Choplin, Sheryl Dundas, Karyn lyon Glover, Peter Vidmar, Conrad Voorsanger; USO( Alhlele's Advisory (ouncil: TBD.

USA Gymnastics Executive Committee (hair: Sandy Knopp; Presidenl: Kalhy Sconlan; Secrelary: Mike Milidonis; Vice (hair Women: Nancy Marshall; Vice (hair Men: Tim Daggell; Vice (hair Rhylhmic: Norma Zobka; FIG Women's Technical (ommittee: J"kie Fie; FIG Rhylhmic Technical (ammittee: Andrea S,hmid·Shapiro; FIG Men's Technical (ommittee: 8ill R"I,heim; AI Large Members: Jim Hartung, Joan Moore; Alhlele Direclors: Mi,helle Dusse rre, Wendy Hilliard, Peler Vidmar; Presidenl Emeritus: Mike Donohue.

Associate Content Editors Sports Science Advisory Committee Sporls Advisory (ommittee: 8ill Sands, Ph.D ., Choir. Education Sub-committee: Polly H"ker, Ph.D., Choir Laision: Sieve Whitl"k

Unless expressly idenlified 10 Ihe conlrory, off ortides, slolemenls and views prrnled herein ore ol/rib.'ed solely 10 Ihe oUlhor ond USA fle~enoorcs expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: In order to ensure uninterrupted de­livery of TECHNIQUE magazine, notice of change of address should be made six to e ight weeks in advance. For fastest service, please enclose your present mailing label. Direc t a ll subscription mail to TECHNIQUE Subscriptions, Pan American Plaza, 2U1 S. Capitol Ave., Sui te 300, Indianapoli S, IN 46225. TECHNIQUE (ISSN 0748-5999) is published 10 limes per year by USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, :01 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN J6225 (phone: 317-237-5050). Third class postage paid at Indianapolis, IN. Subscription price: 525.00 per year in United States; all other countries 548.00 per year. If avai lable, back issue single copies 54.00 plus 51.00 postage/ handling. All reasonable care wi ll be taken, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materia l; enclose return postage. Copyright 1994 by USA Gymnastics and TECH­NIQUE. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

Contents Telecommunications Transferring Files Without Poin

Sports Science Osteochondritis Dissecons

Coaching Product vs. Process: A Coaching Decision Scoredy Cat

Coaches Education ASEP Coaching Principles PDP II-Grandparenting Applicotion

TOPs Testing Physicol Abilities Profiles-1993 National TOPs Testing

Uneven Bars The German Giant

General Gymnastics Gymnaestrada

Research Kinetics of Successful and Unsuccessful Gymnastics Landings

Preschool Preschool Survey Results

Women's Minutes Women 's Administrative 80ard Conference Can June n 1994 J. O. Program Committee Conference Call, July 14, 1994

Men's Gymnastics Championships Status of NCAA Men's Progrom

Rhythmic Minutes Technicol Committee, June 22-23, 1994, St. Louis, MO

Women's Judging USA Gymnastics Judges' Fee Structure

Women's Program Jr. Olympic Optional Requirements

Larry W. Svihlik describes a case of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum with osteocartilaginous loose bodies of the etbow reported in a 13-year-otd mate gymnast.

laleral

~t:oo~r

(opltllum

Radial Head

Radial TuberMity

Radius

9

William Sands encaurages an understanding for skills using unusual grips, like the German Giant, because they will probably be a requirement in women's gymnastics before too tong,

5

8

12 33

14 32

15

22

24

27

34

38 38

39

40

41

43

46

Jennifer Gallahue Lee provides the results of a preschoot survey that was taken to determine the needs of the membership in regard to preschool instructor education.

34

I ., A 4

USA GYMNASTICS

ED U CATI 0 NAL ~ 4 HILro~!!LE::E~!!~~:~~I"_W;" VI D E 0 II P E 5 ~::'PETITION 4. Tri meet: USA, B.elarus, (hina. Wom

PLEASE NOTE: The videos listed in this magazine are provided for educational and historic purposes. While evelY effort is made to produce videos of the highest quality, it should be noted that some of the videos are produced at events utilizing handheld cameras from vantage points in the stands by non-profes­sional volunteer technicians. Only limited editing and production enhancements are utilized in order to provide a timely product at a reasonable cost to the USA Gymnastics membership.

To order any of these videotapes, use the USA Gymnastics order form on page .2.

u.s. CHAMPIONSHIPS 1991 MEN'S EVENT fiNALS

Cincinna'i, OH. lncluaes Racanell~ Waller, Keswick, Ringnala ana o,hers. (0:40)(1991, #2236 512.95

1991 MEN'S SENIOR & JUNIOR OPTIONALS Cincinna'i, OH. Selec,ea routines incluae Waller, Kirksey, Schlesinger, Umphrey, Warbur'on, Hanks, Cohen, Hus'on, Denk, Durbin, Meaaows, ana o,hers .(2:00)(1991)

#2235 519.95

1991 RHYTHMIC INDIVIDUAL fiNALS Coloraao Springs, CO. (199 I)

#2349 512.95

1991 RHYTHMIC JUNIOR & SENIOR FINALS Coloraao Springs, CO. (199 I)

#2353 515.95

1991 RHYTHMIC JUNIOR A Coloraao Springs, CO. Ball, club, rope, ana hoop. (2 'apes)(I991)

#2352 524.95

1994 AM SENIOR O:R/CAN CLASSIC.

%i",OO",do, II, March 24-~:'~~/~' ~OMPE"~~O'NN'/OR AND S35 eu roullnes (n

.00 • wee lopes, SP)

1994 RHYr. level I. line" h' 'HAt/C J. ° CIl #2303 0 ns "·S' 211, ApriI23-24, 199/ (T! 'AMPIONSHIP'S

4.00 . Wo lapes}(l994) level a lind II' #2304 • O"s "e, II, Apri123-24 1

S24.00 ' 994. (Two lapes}(l994) Group. lincalnsh' I #2305 Ife, S~2ttI23-24, 1994. (/994)

, -

I

Phoenix, Az-:a~ ;~t~:: and meet shots. (2.00)

additional wor oU 51&.95 TIONAL #2125 .... EN'S OP .. ENGE-IY· t' nal competitIon .

94 HILTON CH~LL t. USA Belarus, (hina. Men's op 10

1 9 21-22, 1994. Til mee . , Phoenix, Az-May (0:57) 51 &.95

#'l'l15 NAL-MEN'S INVITATIO

1994 BUDGET . Men's optional competition. (0:57)

OPTIONAL 9 II 1994. USA vS RomanIa. M _June - ,

Worcester, ass. 51&.95 #212&

-1991 RHYTHMIC SENIOR COMPETITION Senior A. Coloraao Springs, CO. Hoop, bal~ rope, ana ribbon. (199 "

#2350 519.95 Senior B. Coloraao Springs, CO. Hoop, ball, ana rope. (199 I )

#2351 519.95

1991 WOMEN'S JUNIOR A OPT/ONALS Cincinna'~ OH. Selec,ea routines incluae: Woynerowski, McDermo", Spiale, Simpson, Hornbeek, Duf" ana o,hers. (2:00)(1991'

#2162 516.95

J 99 J WOMEN'S OPTIONAL FINALS Cincinna'~ OH. Selec,ea routines. Also incluaes Senior compulsories. (2:00)(1991)

#2164 516.95 Senior Op,ionals. Cincinna'~ OH. Selec,ea rou,ines include: Zmeska~ Woolsey, S'rug, Kelly, Bruce, Grivich, Miller, Cranaal~ ana o,hers. (2:00)(1991,

#2163 516.95

'99.2 MEN'S NATIONAL TEAM OPTIONALS Columbus, OH. Preliminary rounas ana finals incluaing: Roe,hilisberger, Keswick, Ryan, Waller, Minicucc~ Ringnala, Lynch, Dimas, Hanks, S'el'er, Warbu'ron, Capu'o, Kirksey, Harrison, Asano, Thomas, McKiernan, Lakes, ana o,hers. (I992)

#2255 519.95

199.2 RHYTHMIC JUNIOR AA FINALS Colaraao Springs, CO. Incluaing: Tucay, Davia, Wara, Frearickson, ana o,hers. (I992)

#2355 512.95

199.2 SENIOR AA FINALS Coloraao Springs, CO. Incluaing: Sape"o, Hun', Bushnell, Simpson, H. Lovel~ ana o,hers. (I992)

#2354 512.95

199.2 WOMEN'S JUNIORS Columbus, OH. Compulsories, op,ionlas, ana all awara ceremonies. Incluaing: Apisukh, Powell, Cain, Green, Moceanu, Chow, Thompson, ana o,hers. (2:40 SLP)(I992} #2157 514.95

199.2 WOMEN'S SENIORS Columbus, OH. Compe,ition la, Ib, ana even' finals. Incluaing Zmerska~ S'rug, Campi, Dawes, Boraen, Kelly, ana o,hers. (5:42 SLP)(I992) #2156 521.95

r 994 RHYTHMIC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Nassau Co., NY, Junior Compe,itions-3-'ape se'

I. Rope, Club, ana las' half 01 Hoops, (SP, 2:00:00) 2. Firs' half of Hoops, Ball Ribbon, (SP, 2:00:00) 3. AII'arouna Finals ana Even' Finals, (SP, 2:00:00) # 2306 529.95

Nassau Co., NY Senior Compe,itions-4-'ape set I. Ball, Clubs, 1/ 2 of Rope, (SP, 2:00:00) 2. Rope cant., Hoop, all but 3 ribbon, (SP, 2:00:00) 3. Last 3 ribbon rou,ines ana Event Finals, (SP, I:08:00) 4. Live feea from CBS of AII-arouna, (SP, I:30:00) # 2307 539.95

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Telecommunications

TRANSFERRING FILES WITHOUT PAIN

Jan Claire

If you are an online techno-user, you have undoubtedly found instances in which you wanted to get a great amount of information from your computer to someone else's or from theirs to yours. One way to do this is to copy files to diskette and send it to the other party. Another way-the old fashioned way-is to print out the material and pro­

vide it to the other party.

Then when online systems became prevalent, another, much quicker way of transferring data became available. You can send the file from your computer over telephone lines to an­other computer (Uploading). Or you can transfer data from that remote computer to your own computer over telephone lines (Downloading) .

That system is available on USA Gymnastics Online! The LIBRARIES area of USA Gymnastics Online! contains many files­including some great gymnastics meet-scoring programs-which you can download to your own computer.

Downloading and Uploading of files online is sort of the "ulti­mate high" to a computer user. Successfully downloading or up­loading a file of data is confirmation you really know what data communications is all about. To do it quickly, efficiently, and correctly really gets the old endorphins moving! Many computer users have actually patted themselves on the back after accomplish­ing that first nerve-wracked, bug-eyed, sweaty upload session! It is the ultimate "handshaking" of your software, your computer, the telephone system, and the remote computer system. When they all work together, wonders can be transferred to and from your own computer. So w hy not give it a try?!

Lets upload a file to USA Gymnastics Online! The Libraries section of USA Gymnastics online is a "s torage

place" for files others may wish to download. They may be submitted by anyone. In fact, when u sing the "submit" proce­dure below, there's a reward of" free online time" while upload­ing files as an encouragement for all to send their favorite NON­COPYRIGHTED, original files for other users to download for their own use .

First, you have to sign on to the system. Type GR USA at the Delphi Main menu, and once at USA Gymnastics Online's main menu you'll need to enter the LIBRARIES area by typing the first few letters of the word: LIB or LIBR will do it.

Once inside the libraries area, you'll need to pick the " topic" most suited to the file you wish to upload. Here are the choices:

Figure 1

Databases available menu :

Articles

General Gymnastics Info

Research Data

Software

Technique Magazine Online

The Fans Speak

USA Gymnastics Magazine

Nutrition

Classified Ads

Club Operations

Lets assume you're wanting to submit an article you've written about "How To Build The World's Safest Pit".

You would place that in the Articles area. So you'd type AR­TI cLEs or ART to enter that topic area. Once there, you have a new menu:

Figure 2

Articles Menu:

Directory of Groups

Read (and Download)

Search (by Keyword)

Narrow search

Widen search

Set Topic

Submi t (Upload)

Workspace

Help

Exit

To submit your article type SUB or SUBMIT. You'll see the file submission (upload) menu:

Figure 3

Database Submit Menu:

Begin Submit (Step by Step)

Description of Group

Topic of Group

Filetype of Group

Keywords for Group

Name of Group

Choose Upload Protocol

Upload File 1

Batch Upload Files

Review-edit Group

Copy File 1 from Workspace

Help

Exit

SUBMIT> (Begin , Description , Topic , "?" or Exit)

BEGIN

Augus t 1994 TECHNIQUE

I f'; A 6

Telecommunications

Type BEG or BEGI N to start your upload submission process. You will need to answer some questions about the file you are uploading. So have the following information about your file ready to enter:

1. A brief 1-line-or-Iess description of the file' s contents.

2. The topic in which you wish the file included (Articles).

3. The type of file (whether it's text, a program, etc.)

4. Keywords which best describe your file (Article, Gymnastics, Pits, Foam, construction).

5. Any special download filename that may be needed.

6. A name for your entry.

7. The type of uploading protocol you want the system to use, that matches the one your software will be using (XModem, ZModem, etc.)

You can always type? at a prompt to obtain assistance or the options available to you.

After you have entered all the above information, there will be a point where you begin to upload your data. The menu item you use will be "UPLOAD FILE 1".

At that time USA Gymnastics Online! will prompt you to begin your upload procedure, at which time you tell your software to upload the file. (Read your communications software manual, under "uploading files") Your software will want you to tell it what protocol you are using for the upload (XModem, ZModem, etc.) and where to find the file on your disk or diskette such as: "C: \ PCPLUS \ foamp i t . ar t " or whatever path your system fol­lows to find the file. It may be as simple as "a: foamp i t . a r t ."

Downloading files Downloading files from USA Gymnastics Online! to your own

computer is easier than uploading files. Plus it's always better-and cheaper-to download files, then read them on your own time after you've signed off the system.

To download files (assuming you've already read and under­stood the "Downloading Files" chapter of your own communica­tions software manual) select LIBRaries from the USA Gymnastics Online! main menu, then choose the topic you're looking for by selecting ARTICLES, or other areas shown in Figure 1 above.

Once you've typed in your topic selection, you'll appear at the menu shown in Figure 2. From that menu, merely select "READ (and download) ". Once you have gone to the next menu, your

options are spelled out:

Figure 4

Type : DOCUMENT Date : 1-JUL-1994 00:27 by WRITERMAN Size: 7420 /Count : 4 /Entry : 54 Published by USGF

How To Build The World ' s Safest pit

Keywords : Article , Gymnastics , Pits, Foam , Construction

/File : 02$KWCON_ $E54_Fl. DAT Ace: 7 -JUL-1994 02 : 28 Dow : foampit.art

ACTION> (Next , Down , Xm , List) ?

To download the article shown, you would only need to type DOWN and the system will then be ready for the download proce­dure, once you tell your own software to begin. Usually, USA Gymnastics Online! will download the file to you using whatever protocol you have established in your permanent" settings" (See the Business Office menu to set or change these settings). The easiest protocol method is ZModem which automatically sets up, and starts downloading in communication with your own software (assuming you have IT set up for ZModem as well). With other protocols you would have to start the download process manually, as dictated by your own communications software manual's in­structions.

Incidentally, you can show the full menu accompanying the ACTION> prompt in Figure 4 above, by just typing a question mark (?) .

The (ore of being online Being able to smoothly upload and download vast quantities of

data in a very short time, is the core of being online. The whole concept of computer communications centers around the great efficiency of being able to have a file of data now, when you need it, rather than waiting for mail, hard copies, or even faxes .

Faxes, by the way, are nothing more than automated data transmissions. All a sending fax machine does is scan the document, convert it to data, then dial up another fax machine and send the data to it, where it is re-converted and printed. A fax machine is nothing more than a scanner/printer. Upload­ing, it's a scanner. Downloading it's a printer. No big deal in this day and age. Now you can do all that, and more, right from your computer terminal/modem!

If you'd like more information on USA Gymnastics Online! just call us at 1-800-345-4719. With a computer and modem hooked up to your regular telephone, you can get information when you want it-FAST!

SIGNING UP FOR USA GYMNASTICS ONLINE!

Dial, with your computer/modem: 1-800-365-4636.

Press <ENTER> a few times.

When the system asks for USERNAME: just enter JDINDELPHI

When the system asks for PASSWORD: enter GYMNASTICS

Follow the menus to signup procedures.

Call 1-800-695-4005, by voice phone, the next day to have your account activated. Then when signing on in the future type GR USA at Delphi's main prompt to access USA Gymnas- 1'­tics Online!

Information on pricing and local telephone number in your area are given during the signup process.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

JOIN USA GYMNASTICS ONLINEI

,

•• •

5-HOUR FREE TRIAL! Dial By Modem 1-800-365-4636

Press Return 3 or 4 times

At Password, enter GYMNASTICS

Free time must be used on evenings and/or weekends Some restrictions apply. Complete details are provided during the toll-free registration

USA GYMNASTICS has joined with DELPHI in a great new partner­ship. USA Gymnastics Online! is the new DELPHI Custom Service offering you the world of gymnas­tics through your computer and modem.

In addition to USA Gymnastics Online!, you can access DELPHI itself, and explore the Internet.

Join USA Gymnastics Online! now and get 5 hours of evening or weekend access to tryout the I nternet for free!

Use DELPHI's Internet mail to exchange messages w ith over 10 million people at universities, companies and other online ser­vices such as CompuServe and MCI Mail.

Download programs and files using FTP or connect in real-time to other networks using Telnet!

It's all yours when you "hook up" to USA Gymnastics Online and Delphi.

It' s easy to sign up, and even easier to get online once you've signed up, through more than 600 local access telephone numbers nationwide. Exp lore it all from the comfort of your own computer. Get USA Gymnastics Online! and access to DELPHI and The Internet.

You'll be amazed by what you discover!

Questions? Call 1-800-695-4005. USA Gymnastics' online address for electronic mai l is USGF.

I o A­s

Sports Science

OSTEOCHONDRITIS DISSECANS OF THE RIGHT CAPITELLUM WITH

OSTEOCARTILAGINOUS loOSE BODIES OF THE ELBOW IN A MALE GYMNAST: A CASE REPORT

Larry W. Svihlik, M.A., D.C., c.C.S.P.

3439 Grand Boulevard, Brookfield, IL 60513

Abstract: A case of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum with osteocartilaginous loose bodies of the elbow is re­ported in a 13-year-old male glJmnast. No single episode of acute trauma was reported, and early radiological exams were negative for pathology. A conservative rehabilita­tion approach illustrated continued limitation in elbow extensiOn/flexion, which raised suspicion of articular derangement and was later proven by addi­tional radiological and arthroscopic evaluation. Postsurgical rehabilita­tion then enabled the res­toration of additional el­bow range of motion.

Key Words: osteo­chondritis dissecans, gym­nastics, elbow joint, ath­letic injuries, arthroscopy, mechanical stress, articu­lar-cartilage.

Osteochondritis dissecans, first termed by Koenig in 1887, is one of the more

chronic and frequently misdi­agnosed injuries of the elbow (1,2). In the literature, the cause ranges from mechanical stress and growth disorders to endo­crine imbalances and familial predisposition (2-4). Mechanical explanations of osteochondritis dissecans attributed to stress are oftenrelated to the throwing and racquet sports. Few medically cited articles focus on this injury in the sport of gymnastics (5).

In medical sports research, five major categories of elbow stress are identified. Of these five, the mechanisms of repeti­tive micro trauma of valgus com­pression with an extension over­load at the radiocapitallar joint are consistently identified to re­sult in osseous changes that in­clude loose bodies' formation (6-15). These etiological factors can easily be appreciated and recog­nized in the movements required for the sport of gymnastics, such as handstand pivoting moves and handsprings execu ted on the floor and apparatus.

111e clinical presentation often includes rapid and diffuse swell­ing and linUtation in elbow flexion and extension and may include el­bow locking (16). Pain is localized

to the lateral aspect of the joint on the condyle at the joint line. A history of a single trauma event is often absent. The purpose of this report is to provide clinical in­sight for chiropractic sports phy­sicians in their evaluation of nonh'aumatic complaints of el­bow pain in a gymnast.

Case History A 13-year-old male gymnast

reported to this office with his elbow in a sling. Six days earlier, after a routine gymnastics prac­tice session, his right elbow be­came painfully swollen over­night. The following morning he was taken to a major medical emergency center. After a four­view and a two-view compara­tive x-ray elbow series, which showed joint effusion but was negative for osseous pathology, 10 ml of a mildly bloody fluid was drained from the joint. The patient was then injected with three ml of a saline lidocaine so­lution. An open cast elbow splint was applied with instructions to report back for a follow-up visit in two days. At the follow-up visit, the open cast was removed and replaced wi th an elbow sling to be worn for the next two weeks. The patient was advised to make another appointment in two weeks. No home self-care was recommended. After five days, the patient complained of de­ceasing range of motion (ROM)

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

and increased elbow pain. The patient could not recall experi­encing any specific traumatic event to his elbow.

Physical Examination

Physical exan1in.ation show­ed a 13-year-old boy who walked in a protective, guarded manner with his elbow in a sling held at 90 degrees of flexion. Viewed posteriorly, diffuse joint swell­ing was observed. Active ROM was extremely limited and pain­ful for the patient. From a close packed position of 90 degrees of elbow flexion, only anadditional 30 degrees of extension and 25 degrees of flexion could be ac­complished. Pronation and su­pination of the forearm were measured to be 50 and 45 de­grees from a "thumbs up" or neutral position, respectively . Isometric muscle testing of the biceps, triceps, wrist flexors, and extensors, pronation and supi­nation, were registered a 4/5 grade. Palpation of the radio­humeral joint revealed exquis­ite tenderness.

Management Conservative treatment with

proprioceptive neuromuscular facili ta tion, cryotherapy, kinetic activities at home and in the of­fice (wrist flexion/ extension, forearm pronation/ supination,

J

and elbow flexion/extension ROM) to pain tolerance along with muscle stimulation, pulsed ultrasound, and microcurrent were used to decrease joint edema and pain and increase ROM to the elbow. The use of a rehabilitation cable pulley sled system (known as the TOTAL GYM®) that uses graduated per­centages of patient body weight as resistance, was used because it stimulated gymnastics move­ments. By the 12th office visit, over a 24-day period, this treat­ment regimen steadily decreased the pain discomfort as well as dramatically returning prona­tion and supination to the nor­mal ROM. Elbow extension, but to a lesser degree than flexion, greatly improved. Because, his­torically, a mild bloody fluid had been removed from the elbow joint capsule, and despite rapid clinical improvement, the sus­picion of an articular fracture representing loose bodies in the joint seemed a poss ibility (17,18). Another four-view el­bow series was taken . The radi­ology report stated:

"r ight elbow showed some calcification lateral to the elbow joint most likely representing chip fractures and therefore loose bodies in the joint. There is a break in the cor­tex of the capitellum con­sistent with a fracture of the ar ticular surface. The oblique view shows radiolucency in this area indicating a depressed fracture of uncertain age. There is some slight el­evation of the posterior fat pad indica ting a small amount of effusion. No o ther fractures or any other bony joint abnor­mality were seen"

An immediate phone conver­sation with a consulting ortho­pedic surgeon suggested that, because no painful clicking or locking incident had occurred and consistent strength gains, increased ROM, and decreased edema and pain discomfort could be clinicall y observed, the presen t course of therapy should be continued. However, if a plateau of improvement de-

Sports Science

POSTERIOR

Olecran on Fossa Olecranon Process

Lateral Epicondyle

Radius --..j~ Ulna

Medial Supracondylar

Ridge

Coronoid Process

Ulna

ANTERIOR Lateral Supracondylar Ridge

Capitellum

Radius

Elbow-Posterior and Anterior Views

velops, an orthopedic consulta­tion could be justified. Medical literature confirmed this recom­mendation (19,20) .

The physiotherapy and reha­bilitative exercises continued twice a week for the next seven weeks, at which time the patient was executing all of his daily activities without discomfort. On observation, slight edema was noted in the olecranon fossa but little palpable tenderness was felt at the radial/ humeral articu­lation. Active elbow extension, measured from full flexion, was 135 degrees as compared with 150 degrees on the noninjured side. Appreciating the impor­tance of full elbow extension, required in this sport, coupled with the patient's desire to pur­sue competitive gymnastics, there still existed the possibility of a significant loose body in the

joint capsule that could inhibit full elbow movement and cause further internal joint damage. Because a computed tomogra­phic scan arthrogram had not been completed, an orthopedic consult was arranged for the patient (21-24).

Upon radiological review, palpation, and ROM examina­tion, the orthopedic surgeon ac­knowledged the realistic possi­bility of a loose body(ies) lying posterior to the radial head and obstructing complete elbow ex­tension. It was felt that if addi­tional advanced imaging tech­niques were used, this lesion could still be "missed" and the full diagnostic and therapeutic value of arthroscopy could eas­ily be justified, despite the pos­sible risk of radial or medial nerve complications (25-29). Be­cause the patient had not experi-

In medical sports research, five major categories of

elbow stress are identified. Of these five, the

mechanisms of repetitive micro trauma of valgus

compression with an extension overload at the

radiocapitallar joint are consistently identified to

result in osseous changes that include loose bodies '

formation.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

enced full ROM after a pro­longed course of conservative treatment, the patientwassched­uled for the surgical procedure in two-and-a-halfweeks with tll.e recommendation to continue with rehabilitative therapy in order to aid in postoperative re­covery. However, it was cau­tioned thatifthe loose body(ies), because of their location, coupled with the small volume and configuration of the joint's articular surfaces, could not be removed ar thro-scopically, a larger incisional technique might be necessary.

Upon arthroscopic examina­tion from an anteromedial por­tal, the radial head was identi­fied and found to be intact except for displaying a small erosion on its rim. The capitellum was visualized and found to be in­tac t. An oblong and oval loose body measuring three to four mm in length and two mm in diameter was noted floating in the elbow joint and was ex­pressed by irrigation through one of the calUl.ulas .

Attempts to visualize another osteocartilaginous fragment through direct posterior and posterolateral portals were un­successful. Consequently, a tlu'ee-cm-long arthrotomy inci­sion on the posterolateral aspect of the elbow was performed tha t

9

" .A 9

I

" A-10

carried down through the der­mis, fascia, and splitting of the anconeus muscle. A capsular incision was performed to visu­alize the elbow joint. However, the osteocartilaginous fragment was not loose but was itself en­capsulated and adherent to the capsule. A small incision al­lowed this fragment to be re­moved from the capsular tissue. This oval-shaped osteocartilagi­nous body measured approxi­mately eight to nine mm in length and six mm in diameter.

The incision was irrigated with an antibiotic saline solu­tion and sutured . Six hours postsurgerically, the patient re­turned home wearing an open cast splint positioned in elbow extension. Little medication was taken because of few patient complaints of discomfort. Post­operatively, the surgeon's rec­ommendation was to continue the prophylactic antibiotic regi­men for three days. Because the literature reveals the importance of limiting elbow immobiliza­tion, the patient was instructed to report to this chiropractic of­fice for active and passive ROM exercises (29,30) . It was mutu­ally agreed that electrical mo­dalities (ultrasound and low-volt muscle stimulation) be started after the sutures were removed in nine days. A twice-weekly re­habilitation session consisting of deep cross-friction massage and active / passive elbow extension with emphasis on flexion was instituted (31). The patient's strength rehabilitation was again aided by the use of the TOTAL GYM®. Despite therapy inter­ruptions because of family vaca­tions, the patient made an un­eventful recovery over the next four weeks in his ability to ex­ecute daily living and nonath­letic school activities.

Discussion Osteochondritis dissecans

with loose bodies formation can have a natural history of caus­ing erosive damage to articular surfaces, therefore causing ear ly and silent occeous degenerative changes. It is frequently over­looked and misdiagnosed, most commonly in athletes under the age of 18 years, and can be surgi-

Sports Science

Osteochondritis dissecans with loose bodies

formation can have a natural history of causing

erosive damage to articular surfaces, therefore

causing early and silent occeous degenerative

changes. It is frequently overlooked and

misdiagnosed, most commonly in athletes under

the age of 18 years, and can be surgically treated

with "satisfactory results".

cally treated with "satisfactory results" (31). However, two lit­erature sources reported, in a follow-up survey of gymnasts who were treated for articular surface damage, that nearly all did not continue with competi­tive gymnastics (2,6) . As of Oc­tober 1992, four months postsurgery, the patient had not yet returned to his pre-injury gymnastics skill level. However, a recent follow-up phone con­versation confirmed that the patient finally achieved his pre­injury skill level in February 1993 and completed a full gymnas­tics season on the high school level without incident.

Conclusion The small erosion on the ra­

dial head, coupled with the en­capsulated loose body discov­ered during the arthroscopic examination, confirms the sug­gestion stated in the literature that this was a chronic microtrauma irritation that had been essentially an asymptom­atic lesion. Early recognition of this potentially damaging articu-1ar condition is of paramount importance to a successful and well-guided athletic rehabilita­tion regimen (32).

References 1.

2.

3.

Barrie HI. Osteochondritis dissecans 1887-1987. A centen­nial look at Koenig's memo­rable phase. J Bone Surg 1987;69: B693. Chan D, Aldridge MJ, Maffulli N, Davies AM. Chronic stress in juries of the elbow in Br J Radiol 1991;64:1113-1118. Gore RM, Rodgers LF, Bower-

man J, Compere CL. Osseous manifestations of elbow stress associated with sports activi­ties. AJR 1 980;1 34:971 -977.

4. Kozlowski K, Middleton R. Fa­milial osteochondritis dis­secans: a dysplasia of articular cartilage? Skeletal Radiol 1985;13:207-210.

5. Priest JD . Elbow injuries in gymnastics. Clin Sports Med 1985;4:73-83.

6. Jackson DW, Silvino N. Reiman P. Osteochondritis in the female gymnast's elbow . Southern California Center for Sports Medicine, Long Beach. Arthro­scopy 1989;5:129-136.

7. Pomtpre E, Maffulli N. Osteochondritis dissecans of the lateral humeral condyle in a table tennis player. Ventre Hospitalier d' Annecy, Depart­ment D'Orthopedie etTrauma­tologie, France. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991;23:889-891.

8. Micheli LJ. Common painful sport injuries: assessment and treatment. Clin J Pain 1989;5 (suppI2):551-559.

9. Stanitski CL. Common injuries in preadolescent and adoles­cent athletes. Recommendation for prevention. Sports Med 1989;7:32-41.

10. Cooney WP. Sports injuries to the upper extremities. How to recognize and deal with some common problems. Postgrad Med 1984;76:45-50.

11. Stamotslo CL. Management of sports injuries in children and adolescents. Orthop Clin North Am; 1988,19:689-698.

12. Micheli IJ. The traction apophysitises. Clin Sport Med 1987;6:389-404.

13. Fengler H, Franz R. Micro­trauma and cartilage injury [Germa n] . Beitr Orthop TraumatoI1989;36:498-502.

14. AronenJG. Problems of the up­per extremity in gymnastics. Clin Sports Med 1985;4:61-71.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

15. Ireland ML, Andrew IR. Shoul­der and elbow injuries in young athletes. Clin Sports Med 1988;7:473-474.

16. Andrew JR, Craven WM. Le­sions of the posterior compart­ment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:646.

17. Schafer RC. Chiropractic man­agement of sports and recre­ational injuries. Baltimore: Wil­liams & Wilkins, 1986:374.

18. Magee DI. Orthopedic physi­cal assessment. Philadelphia: WB . Saunders Company, 1987:13.

19. McManama GB Jr, Micheli LJ, Berry MV, Sohn RS. The surgi­cal treatment of osteochondritis of the capitellum. Am J Sports Med 1985;13:11-21.

20. Yocum LA. The diagnosis of treatment in nonoperation of elbow problems in athletes. Clin Sports Med 1989;8:439.

21. Newburg AH. Computed tomography of joint injuries. Radiol Clin North Am 1990; 28:445-460.

22. Hall FM. Elbow arthrography. Radiology R1979;132:775-776.

23. Hudson TM. Elbow arthro­graphy. Radio Clin North Am 1981;19:227-241.

24. Andrews IR, Carson WG. Arthroscopy of the elbow. Arthroscopy 1985;1:97-107.

25. Pap ilion ID, Neff RS, Shall LM. Compression neuropathy of the radial nerve as a complica­tion of elbow arthroscopy: a case report and review of the literature. Arthroscopy 1988; 4:282-286.

26. Thomas MA, Fast A, Shapiro D. Radial nerve damage as a complication of elbow arthro­scopy. Clin Orthop 1987; 215:130-131.

27. Guhl JF. Arthroscopy and arthroscopic surgery of the el­bow. Orthopedics 1985,8:1290-1296.

28. Andrews IR, Craven WM. Le­sions of the posterior compart­ment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:642.

29. Renstrom P, Johnson RJ. Over­use injuries in sports. A review. Sports Med 1985;2:316-332.

30. Blackburn TAJr. Rehabilitation of the shoulder and elbow after arthroscopy. Clin Sports Med 1987;6:588-590.

31. O'Donoghue DH. Treatment of injuries to athletes. 4th ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders 1984:246.

32. Andrews JR, Cravens WM. Le­sions of the posterior compart­ment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:651.

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I o A 12

Coaching

hile the gymnastics scene has not yet suffered an outrageous calamity like the Monica Seles stabbing or the Tonya Harding case, it oc­curred to me that we certainly are not a stress free community either! Even on the most basic grassroots levels, tension commonly

exists between coaches, athletes, and parents. This tension can take many forms. For example, at nearly any gymnastics meet one usually sees dozens of crying athletes, griping parents, and disen­chanted coaches. These scenes are often caused by unclear and even unknown expectations or assumptions between one or more play­ers in a drama starring the Athlete, the Coach, and the Parent.

PRODUCTVS. PROCESS: A COACHING DECISION

Eric Malmberg, Ph.D.

Cortland State University USA Gymnastics Education Subcommittee

EXPECTATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS

The Trio of Players

ATHLETE

COACH PARENTS

Conflicts between these three "players" can largely be avoided if all three are clear about what type of gymnastics experience is desired and delivered. In short, if all three parties, Athlete-Coach­Parent, clearly communicate and understand their expectations, much of the negative stress of the athletic experience can be avoided.

A pure product orientation implies a player or

coach stresses the final outcome as the most

important. A process orientation refers to coaches

who value or emphasize those things that occur in

practice which indirectly or directly create the

desired outcome-the product.

As one of the players in this trio, the coach is one who sometimes is guilty of too narrow expectations, such as when winning (beating others) becomes the all-important end. It is importantfor all coaches to periodically examine their intentions and assumptions by asking, "Just what kind of coach do I really want to be?" One way of answering this question is to examine whether you (as coach) are process or product oriented.

Product vs. Process Product or process orientation in sport is another way of looking

at the means and ends of sport involvement. A pure product orien­tation implies a player or coach stresses the final outcome as the most important. A process orientation refers to coaches who value or emphasize those things that occur in practice which indirectly or directly create the desired outcome-the product.

It is possible to categorize coaches and athletes as process or product oriented by observingwhatthey do and what they say. The following are some stereotypical characteristics of the process or product orientation of coaches.

Are you product or process oriented? Typically a product oriented coach believes primarily in the end­

product and any means to that desired end is acceptable. This coach may require athletes to fit a certain mold or" system" and, as a result, may not be flexible regarding individual differences. Product coaches find it easy to justify even questionable methods or behaviors to reach their goal (end). Often these coaches accept inappropriate athletic behavior as OK, such as running up a score 41-0, or intimi­dating opponents, poor sportsmanship, and so forth.

Some product oriented coaches view "the win" as their only objective for being a coach . Others" train" their athletes rather than " teach" them. These coaches may ignore the value of the athlete and insist that the athlete "not think, just do what I tell you." Consistent long term improvement may not be valued as much as getting the job done.

Product coaches find it easy to justify even

questionable methods or behaviors to reach their

goal (end). Often these coaches accept

inappropriate athletic behavior as OK, such as

running up a score 41-0, or intimidating

opponents, poor sportsmanship, and so forth.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Coaching

Conversely, the process oriented coach tends to view coaching as teaching and places the highest priority on the long term process of learning. This coach prefers to measure success many ways and views w inning as a secondary product of a quality teaching-learn­ing experience. Rather than produce robots that do mindless flip­flops on command, his/ her goal is typically to develop a rational­analytical athlete capable of understanding as well as doing. Process coaches often view their relationship with their athletes as a nurtur­ing one where both the coach and athlete are engaged in a process which, over time, allows the athlete to become an independently functioning athlete .

Another view Another way to help identify product/process orientation is to

consider Fraleigh's (1984) perspective that the most desirable out­come in athletics is not simply to win, but to win by playing well. Fraleigh implies four possible athletic outcomes. Notice that a product coach will find boxes #1 and #4 acceptable, while a process coach would prefer outcomes #1 and #2.

OUTCOME P E R Play F Well 0

2 1 Lose & play Win & play well well

R M A Play N Poorly C

3 4 Lose & play Win & play poorly poorly

E

Conclusion Although pressure or tension is a normal part of athletics,

unclear expectations and assumptions about participation need to be clearly understood by athletes, coaches, and parents. One inter­esting way coaches can better understand and communicate their own expectations is to examine their coaching from process and product oriented viewpoints.

Asking questions such as the fo llowing can hel p a coach to better understand his/her own reasons for involvement:

• Why am I coaching?

• What are my coaching goals? • How do I want to view parents-as a help or as a hin­

drance?

• What is most important to me as a coach?

Are your answers to these questions worded in a process or a product way?

The process oriented coach tends to view coaching

as teaching and places the highest priority on the

long term process of learning. This coach prefers

to measure success many ways and views

winning as a secondary product of a quality

teaching-learning experience.

Although no particular value was placed upon one view or the other, it is important that coaches engage in this self-examination so they may more clearly communicate their expectations with both parents and athletes.

References

Fraleigh, W. (1984). Right Actions in Sport: Ethics for Contestants. Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL: pp 61-62.

Malmberg, E. (1988). Process-product orientation in sport: A justi­fication of coaching for cognition. Journal of Applied Research in Coaching and Athletics. 3(2), pp 128-137.

SAFETY HANDBOOK

Now AVAILABLE •• ~t//. ., ,.,.

/

The 1 994 Edition of the USA Gymnastics Safety Handbook is now available. The Handbook is the required text for use in coni unction with all 3rd Cycle Safety Certification Courses.

The Handbook is included as part of the Safety Course registration fee. All course participants will receive the book at the beginning of their course.

NOrE: All recent participants who have taken a designated 3rd Cycle Course using photocopies of the Handbook will receive their new book within the next four weeks.

The Handbook is also available for purchase from the USA Gymnastics Merchandise Depart­ment. (Please use the order form on page 2 of this magazine).

To order, use the USA Gymnastics Merchandise order form on page 2. #6001 $19.95

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

I

" A 14

Coaches Education

ASEP COACHING PruNOPLES

To more accurately reflect their current programs and future efforts, ACEP is now ASEP, American Sport Education Program. In addition, the Sport Science Course is now titled "Coaching Principles Course." USA Gymnastics feels this is a positive change which indicates more specifically the content areas covered in this comprehensive course curriculum.

Use the form below to pre-register for the course of your choice. To guarantee your registration, a completed form must be received by USA Gymnastics three weeks (21 days) prior to the published course date.

Successful completion of this course fulfills one requirement for PDP Level II Accreditation.

AUGUST J 2-J 3 Fri. : 6:00-9:00 pm, Sat.: 9:00-4:00 pm Helen Paesler School, Rm. #1, 930B Fairbanks ln, Raleigh, NC 27613 Course Oir.: Christine Kennedy (919) 469- 5462 local Contact: Gymcarolina Gymnastics (919) B4B-79BB

AUGUST 24 9:00 am-7:00 pm Nashville, TN 1994 USA Gymnastics Congress Course Oir.: TBA (317) 237-5050

AUGUST 24·25 Wed.: B:30 am-9:00 pm, Thurs.: 2:00-5:00 pm Nashville, TN 1994 USA Gymnostics Congress Course Oir.: TBA (317) 237-5050

AUGUST 28 9:00 am-7:00 pm Nashville, TN 1994 USA Gymnastics Congress Course Oir.: TBA (317) 237-5050

SEPTEMBER 30 9:00 om-5:00 pm Eastgate Holiday Inn, 4501 Eastgate Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45245 Course Oir.: TBA local Contact: Vicki Haggard (513) 4B9-7575 This course is to be held in con;undion with the Region V Mini·Congress.

OCTOBER TBA Time: TBA Richmond, VA Course Oir.: Oave Moskovitz 1317) 237-5050 local Contact: linda Johnson (410) 721-5B53 This course is to be held in con;unclion with the Region VII Mini·Congress.

----------------------------------

IrISA GYMNASTICS

USA Gymnastics-ASEP Coaching Principles Course- Registration Form

Fill in the following form as completely and accurately as possible. please print or type.

Name --------------------------------- Birthdate ______ Age __ (min. age is 18 years)

Add res s ______________ _ City State

Zip ___ _ Phone #: Home (_) - _ -__ Work (_) - _ -__

Social Security No. __ - __ -__ USAG Professional No. ______ ___

Safety Certification Status: Are you currently Safety Certified? D Yes D No Expiration date: _I _I _ Course Information: Date: Location: ----- ----------------------------------------

Course Instructor(s) ______________________________________________ _

Course Information 1. The textbook for the Coaching Principles course is Successful Coaching. The textbook is included in the course fee . Preregistered

participants will receive their materials at the course. 2. The course fee is $80. USAG Professional Members may register at the reduced rate of $70. 3. Successful completion of this course fulfills the Sport Science requirement for PDP Level II Accreditation . 4 . Send completed form with payment to: USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN

46225 Payment:

D Check (Payable to USA Gymnastics) Check No. __ _

D MasterCard or D VISA Card No. _ __________ Exp. Date: _I_I_ Card Holder Name: _________________________ Signature: _______________________ _

T894

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

TOPs Testing

T heTOPsprogram (Talent Opportu­nity Program) of USA Gymnastics was designed as an educational

vehicle and an early talent iden­tification tool (20) . The primary goal of the TOPs program was and is education. The TOPs pro­gram attempts to bring the best minds in gymnastics to those athletes and coaches who show promise, but are not currently in

PHYSICAL ABILITIES PROFILES 1993 NATIONAL TOPs TESTING

the elite competitive program, nor currently training gymnasts with aspirations of international competition. The educational ob­jectives of this program are to

Wm. A. Sands, Ph.D.

Department of Exercise and Sport Science Universihj of Utah

are often called for when a gen­eral view of the athletic group is of interest (1, 6, 10, 14, 7), and w hen trends or norms are being investigated (2, 16, 8, 17, 12, 7). Profiles of this nature provide indices of the levels of certain characteristics of these athletes and what characteristics may dominate in a particular athletic age group. Moreover, the identi­fication of those variables which are age related may assist in the design of future talent identifica­tion tests. Finally, the presenta­tion of normative data by virtue of the percentage rank tables may assist the coach in prepar­ing his/her athletes by provid­ing an indication of where the athlete stands relative to the ath­letes analyzed in this document.

assistthe younger and less expe- The TOPs test battery con­rienced coaches and athletes sis ted of three major areas of with knowledges and attitudes assessment: (a) medical history, that will help them aspire to (b) physical abilities testing, and greater competitive success. Due (c) skill evaluation. The 6 to 8-to limited funds, the TOPs pro- year-old athletes performed only gram uses a qualification sys- the medical history evaluations tern to best provide its limited and the physical abilities test­resources to the most deserving ing. The 9 to 11-year-olds per­athletes and coaches. The TOPs formed all of the tests. The medi­program qualification system cal history portion was begins with one or more regional completed by both parents/ testings of female athletes be- guardians and a family physi­tween the ages of 6 and 11 years. ciano The physical abilities tests The 6 to 8-year-old athletes who and skill evaluations were per­rank the highest in the regional formed at a regional site desig­testings earn the right for their nated by the TOPs Director or coach (not themselves) to attend Elite Development Director for the National TOPs Training a particular USA Gymnastics Camp held annually. Athletes region.Followingrankingsfrom in the 9 to 11 year age group the regional testings, the top qualify from the regional testing ranked 9 to 11-year-old athletes to a national testing where they qualified to the national testing repeat the same tests and are in one ofthe three ages (i.e., 9,10, Methods evaluated by the National Team or 11 years). The physical abilities assess-Coaching Staff of USA Gymnas- ments of these gymnasts con-tics . Testing at the regional level The purpose of this docu- sisted of the following tests: is performed by a regional coach- ment is to present a physical 1. ing staff. The athletes in the 9-11 abilities profile across the three 2. year age group earn the right for age groups from the results of themselves and their coach to the 1993 tests obtained from the 3. attend the National TOPs Train- national testing held in India- 4. ing Camp. napolis, Ind. Profiles of athletes 5. ________________________________ ~6.

7. 8.

Height (em) Mass (kg) Sitting height (em) Left and right arm length (em) Left and right leg length (em) Biacromial diameter (em) Biiliae diameter (em) Skinfold thickness (mm): (a) medial gastrocnemius, (b) anterior thigh, (c) trieep, (d) chin.

A total of 253 athletes participated in the national

testing. These athletes were selected from regional

testings held across the country prior to the

national testing at various dates and sites.

9. Active shoulder flexibility (em) 10. Right and left oversplit (em) 11 . Right and left forward active leg lift

(score)

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

12. Right and left sideward active leg lift (score)

13. Uneven bar leg lifts (repetitions in lOs) 14. Push ups (repetitions in lOs) 15. Uneven bar pull ups (repetitions in lOs) 16. Handstand push ups (repetitions in lOs) 17. Standing countermovement vertical

jump (em) 18. 20 meter dash (s) 19. Six Ib (2.7 kg) medicine ball throw

forward (em) 20. Six Ib (2.7 kg) medicine ball throw

backward (em) 21. Three bounding broad jumps in a row

(em) 22. Left and right, one leg standing balance

with eyes dosed (s)

The procedures for these tests have been presented previously (20,19). The gymnastics related abilities tests (e.g., push ups) were administered by gymnas­tics coaches from the Elite De­velopment Committee of USA Gymnastics. The anthropome­tric tests (e.g., skinfolds) were adminis tered by personnel from the National Institute for Fitness and Sport, Indianapolis, Ind. Skill evaluations were also ad­ministered, but will not be cov­ered in this document. The ath­letes were assigned to groups prior to the testing and rotated as a group to each testing sta­tion. At each testing station the athletes were given a short ex­planation of the test by the test administrator and were allowed to warm up and practice prior to performing the test. One attempt at the test was allowed unless

I

" .A 16

TOPs Testing ----~------~-----------

unusual circumstances beyond the control of the gymnast oc­CUlTed. This policy was invoked to save time due to the large number of athletes participat­ing, the limited time for testing, and the non-novel nature of these tests which gymnasts had practiced during their home training.

This exploratory data analy­ses resulted in approximately 160 statistical tests. Multiple univariate tests were chosen based on the exploratory nature of this report and a need to ex­plore each of the physical abili­ties test battery variables (11). Of course, in performing so many statistical tests, Type I er-

Table 1

ror is greatly exaggerated (21). Type I error was controlled by the Dunn-Sidak method (21), giving an alpha level of .0003 for rejection of the null hypoth­esis for each statistical test. However, it must be acknowl­edged that performing such a large number of statistical tests requires cautious interpreta­tions. Moreover, such alpha lev­els are not displayable in the Pearson product moment cor­relation coefficients calculations of SPSS-PC+TM which was used as the statistical software analysis package for this docu­ment. Therefore, the level of re­jection of the null hypothesis of no relationship in the correla-

Analysis of Variance Results Across Age Groups Anthropometric Tests VARIABLE F(2,250) P MEAN SD GROUP

Height (em)

Moss (kg)

Sitting Height (em)

Left Arm Length (em)

Right Arm Length (em)

Left Leg Length (em)

50.85

35.34

7.62

48.45

46.93

47.72

Right Leg Length 47.00 (em)

BiocromiolOiometer 17.06 (em)

Biilioe Diometer 41.86 (em)

Mediol Gostroenemius .22 Skin fold (mm)

Anterior Thigh .22 Skinfold (mm)

Trieep Skinfold .83 (mml

(hin Skin fold 1.50 (mm)

Sum Skinfolds .06 (mm)

.0000 128.5 134.8 137.1

.0000 26.3 29.3 31.1

.0006 67.9 71.3 70.5

.0000 56.6 59.6 61.1

.0000 56.9 59.8 61.3

.0000 65.9 69.8 71.3

.0000 66.0 69.8 71.5

.0000 24.8 25.7 26.1

.0000 19.5 20.5 21.0

.22 6.3 6.5 6.5

.79 9.0 8.9 9.1

.44 6.9 6.9 6.6

.22 2.9 3.2 3.1

.94 25.2 25.5 25.4

Body Moss Index 5.09 .0068 15.9 moss!ht2 16.1

16.5 ' =stotisticolly significont difference between row ond column.

5.2 5.4 6.6 3.6 3.0 4.5 5.3 2.5 8.6 2.8 2.9 3.3 2.7 2.9 3.4 3.3 3.5 4.3 3.3 3.6 4.3 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.1 1.0 1.2 1.9 1.6 1.9 2.5 1.8 2.2 1.9 1.4 1.5 0.84 0.89 1.13 6.1 4.4 5.3 1.3 1.0 1.5

9 10

" 9 10 II 9

10

" 9 10 11 9

10

" 9 10 II 9

10

" 9 10

" 9 10 II 9

10

" 9 10 II 9

10 11 9

10

" 9 10 11 9

10

"

10 11

Table 2 Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Anthropometric Variables

HEIGHT MASS SITTING ARM LEG BIACROM. BllliAC SUM BMI HEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH DIAMETER DIAMETER SKINfOLDS

Height

Moss

Sitting Height

Arm Length

Leg Length Biocromio) Dio.

Biilioe Dio. Sum Skin fo lds Body Moss Index (BMI)

' =p<.OO1.

Table 3

.84' .30' .9l' .26' .81 '

.26'

.90' .69* .7B'

.81' .65' .76'

.26' .23' .28'

.93' .70' .74'

.69' .68'

.12

.25"

.02

." .15

.65' .04

.17

.27'

.74'

. "

.31'

.30'

.32'

.40'

.32'

Analysis of Variance Results Across Age Groups Flexibili hjTests VARIABLE F(2,2S0)

Active Shoulder flexibility 4.74 .0096 (em)

Right Over·split flexiubility .96 .38 (em)

Left Over·split Flexibility 2.42 .091 (em)

Right fo rword Leg lift .06 .95 flexibility Score

Left forword Leg lift .17 .84 fl exibility Score

Right Sideqord Leg lift .53 .59 flexibility Score

Left Sideword Leg lift .63 .53 flexibility Score

tion coefficients was set at p < .001. Following a statistically significant ANOV A, a post hoc test of the differences between pairs of means was calculated using the Tukey' s Honestly Sig­nificant Difference statistic (p<.05) (21). Pearson product moment correlation coefficients were also calculated on vari­able pairs of interest.

Results The athletes' data presented

in this document represents the information from athletes who were already screened from re­gional testing. These athletes were selected based on the fol­lowing overall cri teria: (a) short stature, (b) small mass, (c) short sitting height, (d) long arms, (e)

MEAN

37.4 41.8 21.9 23.2 24.6 23.0 21.2 23.9 21.2 7.9 7.9 7.9 7.8 7.8 7.7 8.4 8.2 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.1

SD

11.2 10.6 10.8 7.9 8.2 8.9 8.6 9.6 9.3 1.5 1.6 1.8 1.7 1.6 1.7 1.3 1.4 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.5

GROUP 9 10 11

9 10 11 9

10

" 9 10 II 9

10

" 9 10

" 9 10

" 9 10 II

long legs, (f) large biacromial diameter, (g) small biiliac di­ameter, (h) small sum of skinfolds, and (i) high values on all flexibility and strength tests, except the 20 meter dash (20). Therefore, the norms of these athletes. represent a selected sample rather than a nationwide general sample.

A total of 253 athletes partici­pated in the national testing. These athletes were selected from regional testings held across the country prior to the national test­ing at various dates and sites. Eighty six of these athletes were nine years old, 86 were 10-years­old, and 81 were 11-years-old. Table 1 shows the results of the oneway ANOVas and post hoc tests on the anUu'opometric as-

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

TOPs Testing

Table 4 Analysis a/Variance Results Across Age Groups Strength and Power Tests

VARIABLE F(2,2S0) P

Uneven Bors leg lihs 1 Os Repetitions

Push Ups 1 Os Repetitions

Pull Ups 1 Os Repetitions

Hondstond Push Ups 1 Os Repetitions

1.92 .15

1.14 .32

2.26 .11

.45 .64

MEAN

6.2 6.4 6.6

11.7 11.9 12.1 6.8 7.0 7.3 8.7 8.3 8.4

SD

1.3 1.2 1.2 1.7 2.1 1.8 1.5 1.4 1.3 3.0 2.7 2.6

GROUP

9 10 11 9

10 11 9

10 11 9

10 11

10 11

Vertical Jump (em) 32.37 .0000 38.9 4.6 9 10 11 9

10 11

43.1 5.4 45.6 6.1

20m Dash (sec) 25.69 .0000 3.65 0.19 3.56 0.18 3.47 0.15

Medicine Ball Throw 41.90 .0000 308.8 53.5 9 10 11

364.5 58.6 397.8 77.4

Medicine Ball Throw 42.61 .0000 288.1 90.7 9 10 11 9

10 11

Backward (em) 377.7 83.7 425.2 117.0

Broad Jump 10.85 .0000 137.1 45.3 Distance 1 (em) 147.9 24.5

153.0 19.3 Brood Jump 19.04 .0000 311.B 45.3 9

10 11 9

10 11

Distonce 2 (em) 338.2 33.3 347.4 37.2

Broad Jump 29.47 .0000 515.0 40.4 Distonce 3 (em) 546.4 41.9

564.3 44.1 One leg Stonding 8010nce 6.70 .0015 15.9 17.0 9

10 11

leh (sec) 22.5 19.6 26.5 20.6

One leg Stonding 8alance 5.97 .0029 15.6 17.3 9 10 11

Right (sec) 23.1 22.2 26.1 21.2

, = statisticolly significant difference between row and column.

sessments by age group. Table 2 shows Pearson product moment correlation coefficients on se­lected variable pairs for anthro­pometric variables. In the case of bilateral variables, the mean of the bilateral variables was used for correlational calcula­tions. All correlational analyses were calculated across all the athletes (n=253) .

Table 3 shows the results of oneway ANOV As and post hoc test calculations for the flexibil­ity tests of the physical abilities test battery. Table 4 shows the results of the oneway ANOV As and post hoc test calculations for the strength tests of the physi­cal abilities test battery.

Table 5 indicates the Pearson product moment cor­relation coefficients of the flex­ibility variables.

Table 6 shows the Pearson product moment correlation co­efficients of the strength and power variables.

In all of the ANOV A results, because of the differences shown in anthropometric characteris­tics between the age groups, analysis of covariance with one or more anthropometric vari­ables as covariates was consid­ered. However, the magnitude of the correlations of the poten­tial covariates with the depen­dent variables was not large enough to justify the procedure (21,9).

All normative data were cal­culated based on the mean and standard deviation of the tested variable for each age group. The normative data are presented in Tables 7-15.

Table 5 Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Flexibilih) and Anthropometric Variables

HEIGHT MAlI AmvE RT OVER LT OVER RT FWD LT FWD RT SIDE LT SIDE

Height Moss Active Shoulder Rt Over Split It Over Split Rt Forword leg lih It Forward leg lih Rt Sideward leg lih leh Sideward leg lih

*=p<.OOI.

Table 6

SHOULDER SPLIT SPLIT LEG Lin LEG Lin LEG Lin LEG Lin

.84' .20* -.09 -.04 -.15 ·.13 -.19 ,.1 5 .22' -.17 -.06 -.19 -.14 -. 21 * -.19

.18 .24* .19 .18 .11 .17 .61 * .60* .36* .62' .43'

.27* .61 ' .32' .63* .50' .71" .47*

.45' .81 * .58'

Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Strength/power and Anthropometric Variables

HEIGHT MAlI UB PUSH Ups PULL Ups HNSTD VERTICAL 20M MED BALL MED BALL BROAD Jp.

Height Moss UB leg lihs PushUps PuliUps

LEG Lim PUSH Ups JUMP DASH FWD BWD TOTAL

.84' ,.13 ,.21 " -.01 ,.37' ,.08 ,.11 .01 ,.29'

.14 .37' .40' .14 .37*

.26'

.44' ,.36*

.41 * ,.33

.08 ,.12

.08 -.22'

.19 -.28'

.05 ,.24*

.62"

.62 '

.11 ,.02 .17

,.06

.62'

.59'

.06 -.04 .23' ,.06

.47'

.46' ,.02 .06 .20'

,.00 Hdstd Push Ups Vertical Jump 20m Dash

-.59* .51' .47' .53' '.42' -.43' '.24'

Med BallForward Med 8011 80ckword Brood Jump Total Distance

' =p<.OOI.

Table 7 7 Anthropometric Normative Values 9 Year Olds

.65'

HEIGHT MAlI SITTING HEIGHT (CM)

BIiLiAC SUM ARM LENGTH (CM)

LEG BIACROMIAL % RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

(CM) (KG)

112.9 15.5 52.0 121.3 21.3 60.6 124.1 23.3 63.4 125.8 24.4 65.1 127.2 25.4 66.6 128.5 26.3 67.9 129.8 27.2 69.2 131.2 28.2 70.7 132.9 29.3 72.4 135.7 31.3 75.2 144.1 37.1 83.8

DIAMETER SKINroLoz LENGTH DIAMETER (CM) (MM) (CM) (CM)

16.2 6.9 64.8 75.9 29.3 18.0 16.8 60.4 70.6 26.9 18.6 20.1 59.0 68.8 26.1 18.9 22.0 58.1 67.7 25.6 19.2 23.7 57.4 66.8 25.2 19.5 25.2 56.7 66.0 24.8 19.8 26.7 56.0 65.2 24.4 20.1 28.4 55.3 64.3 24.0 20.4 30.3 54.4 63.2 23.5 21.0 33.6 53.0 61.4 22.7 22.8 43.5 48.6 56.1 20.3

.44'

.43'

Discussion The TOPs program has re­

ceived enormous support and participation. The total number of athletes participating in all age levels leading to the 1993 national testing and training camp was 1048. This represents an increase of 223 % over the first year of the TOPs program. The

large number of athletes partici­pating allows sport scientists a rare opportunity to study young female gymnasts and perhaps follow them through many years of gynmastics competition as they rise the ladder of gynmas­tics competitive levels.

In keeping with the overall educational goals of the TOPs

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

9 ., A. 17

I o A-18

TOPs Testing

athletes to determine if an ath-Table 8 lete is progressing in physical

Anthropometric Normative Values abili ties as she grows, and de-

10 Year Olds termine relative weaknesses of our nation and individual ath-

HEIGHT MAlI SITIING BllliAe SUM ARM LEG BIAeROMIAL letes in these age groups. % HEIGHT DIAMETER SKINFOLOZ LENGTH LENGTH DIAMETER

RANK (CM) (KG) (CM) (CM) (MM) (CM) (CM) (CM) Cross sectionally, these data 99.9 118.6 20.3 63.8 17.5 12.3 68.4 80.6 30.2 can offer some indication of the 90 127.3 25.2 67.9 19.1 19.4 63.7 74.8 27.8 relative growth of various pa-80 130.3 26.8 69.2 19.7 21.8 62.1 72.8 27.0 70 132.0 27.7 70.0 20.0 23.2 61.2 71.7 26.5

rameters in these selected gym-

60 133.5 28.6 70.7 20.3 24.4 60.4 70.7 26.1 nas tics age groups. In a study of

50 134.8 29.3 71.3 20.5 25.5 59.7 69.8 25.7 52 athletes at the Junior Euro-

40 136.2 30.1 71.9 20.8 26.6 59.0 68.9 25.3 pean Championships, Calder-

30 137.6 30.9 72.6 21.0 27.8 58.2 67.9 24.9 one, et al. (7) found the follow-20 139.3 31.8 73.4 21.3 29.2 57.3 66.8 24.4 ing average information for the 10 142.3 33.4 74.8 21.9 31.6 55.7 64.8 23.6 11 year-old athJetes (n=2) tested: 0.1 151.0 38.3 78.8 23.5 38.7 51.0 59.0 21.2 (a)mas,s29.8504.9 kg, (b) height

134.5 0 6.4 cm, ~d (c) body mass index 16.35 0 1.2. These

Table 9 compare with the information

A nthropometric Normative Values provided in Table 1. A study of

11 Year Olds young "highly trained" Swiss gymnasts by Theintz, et al. (22)

HEIGHT MAlI SITIING BIiLiAe SUM ARM LEG BIAeROMIAL showed that the TOPs athletes % HEIGHT DIAMETER SKINFOLOZ LENGTH LENGTH DIAMETER

of 10 and 11 years were campa-RANK (CM) (KG) (CM) (CM) (MM) (CM) (CM) (CM)

99.9 117.3 17.6 44.7 17.4 9.5 71.4 84.3 30.9 rable or slightly shorter than the 90 128.0 24.9 58.6 19.3 18.1 65.9 77.3 28.3 Swiss athletes. Moreover, the leg 80 131.6 27.3 63.3 20.0 20.9 64.1 75.0 27.4 length measurements of the 70 133.7 28.8 66.0 20.4 22.6 63.0 73.6 26.9 TOPs athletes compared well 60 135.5 30.0 68.4 20.7 24.1 62.1 72.5 26.5 with the Theintz, et al. study, 50 137.1 31.1 70.5 21.0 25.4 61.2 71.4 26.1 while the sitting height of the 40 138.8 32.2 72.7 21.3 26.7 60.4 70.3 25.7 TOPs a thletes was slightly 30 140.5 33.4 75.0 21.6 28.2 59.4 69.2 25.3 shorter. In a study by Benardot 20 142.6 34.9 77.7 22.0 29.9 58.3 67.8 24.8 and Czerwinski (4) of7-14-year-10 146.2 37.3 82.4 22.7 32.7 56.5 65.5 23.9 old U.S. Association of Indepen-0.1 156.9 44.6 96.3 24.6 41.3 51.0 58.5 21.3

dent Gymnastics Clubs athletes, comparable data were found for

Table 10 mass, height, and body mass index, while tricep and anterior

Flexibilih) Normative Values thigh skinfolds tended to be 9 Year Olds lower in the TOPs athletes. These

ACTIVE RIGHT LEFT RIGHT Fwo LEFT Fwo RIGHT SlOE LEFT SlOE athletes are all smaller and % SHOULOER SPLIT SPLIT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT lighter than their nonathletic age RANK (CM) (CM) (CM) (1-10) (1-10) (1-10) (1-10) mates (15), and in comparison to 99.9 71.0 46.9 47.0 +".*. **** **** **** some other studies of similar age 90 52.9 34.1 33.1 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 (i.e., 11.5 yr) gymnasts from the 80 46 .8 29.8 28.4 9.2 9.2 9.5 9.5 Netherlands (5). The height and 70 43.2 27.3 25.7 8.7 8.7 9.1 9.0 60 40.2 25.2 23.3 8.3 8.2 8.7 8.6

mass data also compares well to

50 37.4 23.2 21.2 7.9 7.8 8.4 8.2 the prediction equation devel-

40 34.6 21.2 19.1 7.5 7.4 8.1 7.8 oped by Sands (18) . A study of

30 31.6 19.1 16.7 7.1 6.9 7.7 7.4 Canadian gymnasts at the Sen-20 28.0 16.6 14.0 6.6 6.4 7.3 6.9 eca Gymnastics School (13) indi-10 21.9 12.3 9.3 5.8 5.5 6.6 6.1 cated that their anthropometric 0.1 3.8 * ,,~* *"** 3.4 2.7 4.5 3.7 data were very close to the data .... = out of onge volue. shown in Table 1 for height and

mass of 10-year-olds (n=12).

program, it is important to re- show the results of a variable by However, the TOPs athletes jumped almost 10 cmhigher than

turn inform a tion regarding variable analysis of the TOPs the Seneca gymnasts in the ver-these athletes to the athletes, testing program, and on aver- tical jump test. Interestingly, sev-parents, and coaches of these age, how the 9 to 11-year-old eral anthropometric variables groups, now and in the future. athletes performed. This de- dis tinguished between age The many tables included in the scriptivej normative informa- groups such as height, mass, arm results section of this document tion can be used by coaches and length, and so for th. Where dis-

Augus t 1994 TECHNIQUE

crepancies in this pattern oc curred it was always indicativ e of the nine-year-old athletes dif fering from the 10 and 11-year olds, while the 10 and 11-year olds did not differ. This ma y indicate that 9-year-old femal gymnasts have some importan

e t s growth related characteristic

that distinguish them more dra matically from the 10 and 11 year-olds. Finally, none of the body composition nor body mass index variables dis tin-guished be tween these age groups. This may indicate that these athletes are of fairly uni-form body composition.

The flexibility information on all of the TOPs tests compared well with standards postulated by Sands (18), and was indica-tive of the early development of talented young gymnasts when compared to data on similar tests of national team members (19), and from Canadian talent iden-tification programs (3) . Other comparisons were impossible due to the paucity of published flexibility information on these age groups and particular tests. Interestingly, none of the age groups could be discriminated by their flexibility results as shown in Table 3.

The strength and power in-formation also compare well with the standards postulated by Sands (18, 19), and the Cana-dian testing programs (3, 13). The physical abilities tests that were scored by the number of repetitions done in 10 seconds did not distinguish between age groups (See Table 4). However, all of the power related tests d id distinguish between age groups. Again, if there was one group that stood out as being some-what different it was the nine-year-olds. The 9-year-olds dif-fered from the 10 and 11-year-old groups without the 10 and ll-year-olds differing in the first two broad jump distances. The standing unsighted balance tests came quite close to statistical sig-nificance except for the very stringent alpha level set in this study. The near statistical sig-nificance of the standing balance tests may by indicative of matu-ration of this skill.

The correlational informa­ion is presented in Tables 2, 5,

and 6. The correlation coeffi­cients are impressive if only in the general lack of high values. It is interesting to note that height and mass only correlate r= .84, p <.OOl, indicating that only 70% of the variability in one could be predicted by the other. Arm and leg length and standing height are highly cor­related, as would be expected. Moreover, mass and arm and leg length are also high! y corre­lated, again highly likely. Be­yond these, the values of the correlation coefficients are not ·mpressive. Although many of the variables are statistically sig­nificant, indicating that there is a relationship, however the magnitude of the coefficient of variation in many of these cir­cumstances indicates a very low to moderate level of predicted variance (21) .

Conclusion The TOPs testing program

has continued for three years as of this writing, with the third year testing currently under­way. Based on the analyses pre­sented here and other s tatistical tests not included, the currently running TOPs testing program has been modified to eliminate tests that appear to be highly correlated, difficult to adminis­ter, or have questionable reli­ability and/or validity. Of the large number of tests adminis­tered, those tests of anthropo­metric variables relative to body size, and strength and power variables of the lower extremity appear to distinguish between ages most clearly. Interestingly, the body composition and flex­ibility measures did not distin­guish well between the age groups . It was impossible to develop factor analyses of the ranks using these variables be­cause of the dependence of those ranks on the variables being measured. In the future, it is hoped that the competitive sta­tus of these athletes can be com­pared with their early TOPs test­ing results to develop predictive equations to assis t in the identi­fication and tracking of these talented young athletes.

TOPs Testing

References 1. Adrian, MJ and Anjos, LAD. Pro­

filing. In: Biomechal1ics il1 sports, edited by J. Terauds, Gowitzke, B. A., and Holt, L. E. Del Mar, CA: Academic Publishers, 1987, p. 308-312.

2. Anderson, SJ, Heusner, WW, Golden, D, O'Brien, R, Mal ina, RM, Shea, J, Gabriel, L, and Geitlmer, CA. Sport, medical and injury background of Junior Olympic Divers. In: U.S. Divil1g Sport Sciel1ce Semil1ar 1993 Pro­ceedir/gs, edi ted by R. Malina, and Gabriel, J. L. Indianapolis, IN: U.s. Diving Publications, 1993, p .41-49.

3. Bajin B. Talent identification pro­grams for Canadian female gym­nasts. In: World idel1tificatiol1 sys­tems for gym l1astic talel1t, edited by B. Petiot, Salmela, J. H ., and Hoshi zak i, T. B. Montreal, Canada: Sport Psyche Editions, 1987, p. 34-44.

4. Benardot, D., and Czerwinski, C. Selected body composition and growth measures of junior elite gynmasts. J. Am. Diet. Assoc. 91: 29-33,1991.

5. Bernink, MJE, Erlich, WBM, Peltenburg, AL, Zonderland, ML, and H uisveld, IA. Height, body composition, biological matura­tion and training in relation to socio-economic status in girl gym­nasts, swinUllers and controls. Growth 47: 1-12,1983.

6. Butts, N .K. Profiles of eli te ath­letes: Physical and physiological characteristics. In: The elite ath­lete, edi ted by N. K. Butts, Gushiken, T. T., and Zarins, B. Jamaica, NY: Spectrum, 1985, p. 183-208.

7. Calderone, G, Leglise, M, Giampietro, M, and Betlutti, G. Antluopomeh'ic measurements, body composition, biological maturation and growth predic­tions in young female gynm asts of high agnostic level. J. Sports Med. Phys. Fitl1 ess 26: 263-273,1986.

8. Grandjean, AC Profile of nutri­tional beliefs and practices of the elite athlete. In: The elite athlete, edited by N. K. Butts, Gushiken, T. T., and Zarins, B. Jamaica, NY: Spectrum, 1985, p. 239-248.

9. Hays, WL. Satistics, 4th ed. New York, NY: Holt, Rinehart, and Wilson, 1988.

10. Hensc hen, KB, Sands, and Gordin, R. Getting ready for '88. New Horizons of Human Move­ment III . Seoul Olympic Scien­tificOrganizingCommittee.168-169. (Abstract).

11. Hubertym CJ and Morris, JD. Mu ltivariate ana lys is ve rsus

Tobie 11 Flexihilih) Nonnative Values 10 Year Olds

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

ACTIVE SHOULDER

(CM)

73.6 56.4 50.7 47.3 44.4 41.8 39.2 36.3 32.9 27.2 10.0

RIGHT SPlIT (CM)

49.2 35.9 31.5 28.9 26.7 24.6 22.6 20.3 17.7 13.3 0.0

•••• = out of ronge value.

Tobie 12

LEFT SPLIT (CM)

52.7 37.1 32.0 28.9 26.3 23.9 21.5 18.9 15.8 10.7

RIGHT FWD LEFT FWD RIGHT SIDE LEFT SIDE LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT (1-10) (1-10) (1-10) (1-10)

10.1 9.2 8.7 8.3 7.9 7.5 7.1 6.6 5.7 3.1

10.0 9.1 8.6 8.2 7.8 7.4 7.0 6.5 5.6 3.0

10.1 9.4 8.9 8.5 8.2 7.9 7.5 7.0 6.3 4.0

10.1 9.4 9.0 8.6 8.3 8.0 7.6 7.2 6.5 4.4

Flexihilih) Normative Values 11 Year Olds

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

AmVE SHOULDER

(CM)

74.3 56.8 51.0 47.5 44.6 41.9 39.2 36.3 32.8 27.0 9.5

RIGHT SPlIT (CM)

49.7 35.3 30.5 27.6 25.2 23.0 20.8 18.4 15.5 10.7

•••• = out of ronge value.

Tobie 13

LEFT SPlIT (CM)

49.1 34.0 29.0 26.0 23.5 21.2 18.9 16.4 13.4 8.4

RIGHT FWD LEFT FWD RIGHT SIDE LEFT SIDE LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LIFT LEG LI FT (1-10) (1-10) (1-10) (1 -10)

1M 1M lU 1~

9.4 9.1 9.4 9.4 8.8 8.4 7.9 7.5 7.0 6.4 5.4 2.5

8.6 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 6.3 5.4 2.6

8.9 8.5 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 5.9 3.3

8.9 8.5 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 6.0 3.6

Strength/power Normative Values 9 Year Olds

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

UB LEG LIFT

(REPS)

10.1 8.0 7.3 6.9 6.5 6.2 5.9 5.5 5.1 4.4 2.3

PUSH UPS

(REPS)

16.8 14.0 13.1 12.6 12.1 11.7 11.3 10.8 10.3 9.4 6.6

*' •• = out of ronge value.

PULL UPS

(REPS)

11.3 8.9 8.1 7.6 7.2 6.8 6.4 6.0 5.5 4.7 2.3

HNDSTD VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAD PUSH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT

(REPS) (CM) (CM) (CM) (eM)

17.7 52.7 469 560 636 12.8 45.2 382 413 570 11.2 10.3 9.5 8.7 7.9 7.1 6.2 4.6

42.8 353 41.3 336 40.1 322 38.9 308 37.8 36.5 35.0 32.6 25.1

295 281 263 235 148

364 335 310 288 265 240 211 162 160

548 536 525 515 504 494 481 459 393

BALANCE 20M 1 LEG DASH

(S) (S)

66.9 3.08 39.4 3.39 30.2 3.49 24.7 3.55 20.2 3.60 15.9 3.65 11.7 7.1 1.6

3.70 3.75 3.81 3.91 4.22

multiple univariate analyses. Psych. Bill. 105(2): 302-308,1989.

12. Irvin, R, Major, J, and Sands, W A. Lower body and torso strength norms for elite female gynulasts.

In: 1992 USGF Sport Sciellce COI1-

gress Proceedillgs, edited by J. L. McNitt-Gray, Girandola, R., and Cal laghan, J. Indianapolis, IN: USGFPublications, 1992, p. 5-12.

A ugust 1994 TECHNIQUE

r~ o .A 19

I

" A 20

TOPs Testing

Table 14 Table 1 S Strength/power N ormative Values Streng th/power Normative Values 10 Year Olds 11 Year Olds

UB LEG PUSH PULL HNDSTD VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAD BALANCE 20M UB LEG PUSH PULL HNDSTO VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAO BALANCE 20M % LIFT Ups Ups PU SH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT 1 LEG DASH % LIFT Ups Ups PUSH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT 1 LEG DASH RANK (REPS) (REPS) (REPS) (REPS) (CM) (CM) (CM) (CM) (S) (s) RANK (REPS) (REPS) (REPS) (REPS) (CM) (CM) (CM) (CM) (s) (s)

99.9 10.0 18.2 11.2 16.4 59.3 540 628 672 81.3 3.02 99.9 10.2 17.5 11.2 16.2 63.9 630 776 696 88.3 3.02 90 8.1 14.8 8.9 12.0 50.6 445 493 604 49.5 3.31 90 8.3 14.6 9.1 12.0 54.0 504 586 625 54.9 3.26 80 7.4 13.7 8.2 10.6 47.6 413 448 581 39.0 3.41 80 7.6 13.6 8.4 10.6 50.7 462 523 601 43.8 3.34 70 7.0 13.0 7.7 9.7 45.9 395 421 568 32.7 3.47 70 7.2 13.0 8.0 9.8 48.8 438 486 587 37.2 3.39 60 6.7 12.4 7.4 9.0 44.5 379 398 556 27.4 3.52 60 6.9 12.5 7.6 9. 1 47 .1 417 454 575 31.7 3.43 50 6.4 11.9 7.0 8.3 43.1 364 377 546 22.5 3.56 50 6.6 12.1 7.3 8.4 45.6 397 425 564 26.5 3.47 40 6.1 11.4 6.7 7.6 41.8 349 356 535 17.6 3.61 40 6.3 11.7 7.0 7.8 44.1 378 396 553 21.4 3.51 30 5.8 10.8 6.3 6.9 40.3 334 334 524 12.3 3.65 30 6.0 11.2 6.6 7.0 42.4 357 364 541 15.8 3.55 20 5.4 10.1 5.8 6.0 38.6 315 307 511 6.0 3.71 20 5.6 10.6 6.2 6.2 40.5 332 326 527 9.2 3.60 10 4.7 9.0 5.1 4.6 35.6 283 262 488 3.81 10 4.9 9.6 5.5 4.8 37.2 291 263 503 ,.*"'. 3.68 0.1 2.8 5.6 2.8 26.9 188 126 420 4.10 0.1 3.0 6.7 3.4 •• ** 27.3 165 74 432 "ok."- 3.92

. . .. ; oul of range value. • ••• ; oul of range value.

13.

14.

Jerome, W, Weese, R, Plyley, M, Book Medical Publishers, Vol. 2, U.S. Diving Publications, 1993, fo r women . Technique 8: 27-Klavora, P, and Howley, T. The 1989, p. 1-14. p.158-164. 32,1988. Seneca gymnastic experience.

15. Malina, RM, Meleski, BW, and 17. Rubin, BD, McNitt-Gray, JL, and 20. Sands, W. A. Talent opportlll1ity In: Psychological nurturing and Shoup, RF. Anthropometric, Mangine, RE. Physical assess- program. India na po lis, IN: guidance of J51j lllnastic talent, ed-

ited by J. H. Salmela, Petiot, B., body composition, and maturity ment of u.s. Diving national team United States Gymnastics Fed-and Hoshizaki, T. B. Montreal, characteristics of selected school- members. In: U. S. Diving Sport era tion, 1993. Quebec: Sport Psyche Editions, age athletes. Pediat. Clinics. N. Science Seminar 1993 Proceedings,

Amer. 29(6): 1305-1323,1982. edited by R. Malina, and Gabriel, 21. Sokal, RR, and Rohlf, F. James. 1987, p. 90-118. J. L. Indianapolis, IN: U.s. Diving Biometry, 2nd ed. New York, NY: Kowalski, MF and Grana, W A. A 16. Rubin, BD, Anderson, SJ, Chan- Publications, 1993, p. 114-120. W.H. Freeman, 1969. profile of the elite athlete. In: Ad- dler, J, and Kibler, WB. A physi-

18. Sands, B. Coaching women 's gynl- 22. Theintz, GE, Howald, H, Weiss, vances in Sports Medicine and Fit- ological and shoulder injury pro-'lnstics. Champaign, IL: Human U, Sizonenko, Pc. Evidence for a ness, 2: Advances in sports medicine fil e of elite divers. In: U.S. Diving

and fitness, edited by W. A. Grana, Sport Science Seminar 1993 Pro- Kinetics, 1984. reduction of grow th potential in

Lombardo, J. A., Sharkey, B. J., ceedings, edited by R. Malina, and 19. Sands, W. U.s. Gynmastics Fed- adolescent female gynmasts. J. and Stone, J. A. Chicago, IL: Year Gabriel, J. L. Indianapolis, IN: eration physical abilities testing Ped. 122: 306-313,1993.

RHYTHMIC PROMOTIONAL VIDEO IS NOW COMPLETE! til ~ . ....... ~

~ ~ -< til ~

This new item is designed to introduce rhythmic gymnastics to the general public. The four-minute video illustrates for parents and club owners alike both the fun side of rhythmic gymnastics and the competitive possibilities. Images range from pre­school movement classes to international elite competitions.

Adding rhythmic gymnastics to your curriculum? Remember that parents and coaches alike are generally unfamiliar with the sport. The promotional video can be used to educate your clientel and to promote the development of new rhythmic classes. Turn on

your lobby and let the pictures do the talking!

The video is set to music and includes voice-over narration. Call USA Gymnastics Merchandise at 317-237-5060 to order your copy. (Item # 1341 »

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

IttSA GYMNASTICS

I ., A 22

Uneven Bars

THE GERMAN GIANT Wm A. Sands, Ph.D.

Department of Exercise and Sport Science University of Utah

T ~:s~e::~~~~~ formed a German giant directly to a Tkatchev. Of course, the gymnast did not appear to re­ceive a requisite score, perhaps because few appreciated how re­ally difficult this is to perform, and the Tkatchev did not fly as high as a normal Tkatchev.

a particular swing, she should probably pursue something else. Of course, the swing to try for the German giant is a swing from a "skin-the-cat" position (see Fig­ure 2). Remember that the swings should be small. The gymnast

men's gymnas­tics for some­time. Interest

. ingly, although women tend to copy and follow the men's horizontal bar, the use of "unusual" grips (Le., elgrip, cubital grip, and dorsal hang; translated to eagle, inverted, and German giants) while swinging has not progressed on uneven bars very far. Moreover, although women have success­fully copied many of the male gymnast's releases, the women have not copied the unusual grip swings, even though the men were doing these types of swings long before they started the somersaulting types of re­leases. This is perhaps due to the slow change of the women's uneven bar rail to a smaller di­ameter and the relatively small hands of many of the female gymnasts. Nevertheless, the women have appeared to go at it a little backwards when com­

There are a variety of Figure II: Tap Swing of German Giant

pared to the men.

It is my feeling that women will have an unusual grip re­quirement in their uneven bars routines before too long. Gymnasts, women's coaches, and women's judges will need to develop an under­standing and appre­ciation for these types of skills. Some aspects

ways that a gymnast can swing with one of the unusual grips. A German giant or "German" swing (I don't know where the "German" came from) , can lead to many inter­esting skills. Moreover, the German giant is vi­sually quite obvious so some of the lack of inher­ent visual distinctiveness of the eagle and inverted giant swings can be par­tially avoided.

This skill is clearly for very advanced female gymnasts only. In my opinion, you will be likely to find that some gymnasts have a natural "feeling" for one type of the unusual grips more than the others. You can often get an idea of this by simply having the gymnast hang and take a few very small swings in the unusual grip. If the gymnast feels pain in

Figure I: German Giant

of these skills are quite i~~ii!~ subtle and will require i retraining the eyes to detect the perfor­mance and perfor­mance fl aws. Some unusual grip swings have been done by fe­male gymnasts, in­cluding the German giant to be discussed here. A Chinese gym­nast at the Goodwill Games in Seattle per-

2

3

will have a difficult time learning to regrasp, or shift grip, at the end of the swing to continue to hang on. Be aware of this grip problem and spot the gymnast carefully throughout these drills, do not let your guard down.

Figure 1 shows the German giant sequence. It begins with a reverse kip. The gymnast usu-

5

4

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

ally performs a long swing to stoop through to get to the high V position shown in Figure I, picture 1. I will not go into detail on the reverse kip in this docu­ment, suffice it to say though­no reverse kip-no German gi­ant. Following picture 1, the gymnast descends and pikes tightly to obtain a large amount of angular momentum. As the gymnast passes through the bot­tom of the swing, she "turns over" more than the type of swing used for an overshoot or typical basket swing (See Figure

1, pictures 3 and 4) . The greater "turn over" during the bottom and upswing of the reverse kip allows the gymnast to place her seat or the back of her thighs against the bar. In my opinion, you should spend the majority of your time teaching the gym­nast the reverse kip long before you attempt to teach her the

7

German giant. It is very impor­tantthatthe gymnast have avery controlled reverse kip that fin­ishes in the position shown in Figure I-picture 5. The position shown in Figure I-picture 5 al­lows the gymnast to prepare for a violent piking action from the hips while she presses down and slightly forward on the rail. The remainder of the pictures in Fig­ure 1 show the basic German giant swing back to the high V position. The German giant swing can end in the high V where the gymnast would then "stoop out" swinging under the bar. The giant swing can also end by flanking the legs to one side and swinging down in a long hang. In addition, during the upswing the gymnast can release one hand and perform a half turn and regrasp to a long hang or support.

Figure II shows a version of the" tap" that the gymnast will use while swinging through the bottom of the full giant swing. Figure II also roughly shows the motion swing through the bot­tom that should be practiced by itself before trying the completed giant swing. If the gymnast feels pain in the shoulders, elbows, upper or lower back during the swinging motion shown in Fig­ure II, the gymnast should prob­ably not pursue this type of gi­ant swing. Of course, flexibility training for the shoulders is im­portant and highly recom­mended. Many repetitions of the skin-the-cat-and-return can be used to develop the strength and flexibility of the gymnast. This is

Uneven Bars

a very unusual position for most people to handle considerable force of the swing. The gym­nast should be thoroughly fa­miliar with these positions before attempting any swinging.

Figure III shows a drill for teaching the "toss" that starts the swing from a simulated end of the reverse kip. Note that the gymnast starts while seated on the edge of a trampoline. The gymnast starts in the stretch po­sition shown in Figure III-pic­ture 1. The gymnast then vio­lently pikes while leaning backward and pressing down­ward and slightly forward with the arms. The gymnast then lands on her back on the tram­poline bed and soft mat in the position shown in Figure III­picture 3. Be sure that the gym­nast keeps her chin on her chest, and that the gymnast practices rolling to this landing position on the floor many times before moving to the trampoline. A considerable amount of upper back and neck flexibility are re­quired for this drill. The gym­nast should be able to touch her knees on the floor next to her head similar to the position shown in Figure III, picture 3. This will ensure that she has the

2

requisite flexibility to perform the landing safely.

When it is time for the gym­nast to try the entire skill, the gymnast should begin on a single rail with spotters on both sides. The spotters can stand on blocks to ensure that they can reach the gymnast. The spotters hold the gymnast's wrists with one hand while the other hand helps the gymnast through the "toss" phase and downswing by lifting on the gymnast's lower back. The gymnast should attempt to direct the initial movements of the German giant mostly back­ward, with emphasis on getting stretched completely well before the bottom of the swing. Getting stretched without tossing very high is advantageous for safety and allows the gymnast to swing downward smoothly.

When spotting be sure to hold the gymnast's wrists through-

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Figure III: "Toss" Drill

3

out the movement. Plan ahead so that you can keep contact wi th the gymnast's wrists through­out the swing without having to let go as the gymnast passes be­neath the rail or starts the up­swing. It is very important that the gymnast has performed many swings of the nature shown in Figure II so that she knows how to descend (i.e., drop off) if she does not make the swing all the way above the bar.

The German giant is a diffi­cult and spectacular skill. Since the distance between the un­even bars has consistently in­creased, the pOSSibility of per­forming these types of skills has come along with the appa­ratus changes. If you are in doubt as to how to proceed or encounter questions not ad­dressed here; be sure to enlist the aid of a qualified men's coach to help you.

11

tt

" A 23

~

" A 24

'Event Coorainator: Amy Oler

USA Gymnastics, Pan Ameri­can Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capitol Ave., India­napolis, IN 46225 (317) 237-5050

J-{ost J-{ote[.-Palm Springs Hilton Hotel

400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 (619) 320-6868

Rate information to follow

JlcMitiona{ J-{ote[S: Information will be provided upon receipt of entry

Participation Jee(s): Basic fee- $20 per par tici­pant.

This includes:

Gymnaestrada T-shirt

. Accreditation card/badge

General Gymnastics

Palm Springs Loca{ Organizing Committee (LOC) ana USJI. gymnastics

The City of Palm Springs participated in a competitive bid process to be considered as the "host city" for the 1994 Gymnaestrada. USA Gymnastics is excited to award this event to Palm Springs and is confident that the City and the LOC will do everything possible to make this truly a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants! The LOC includes city representatives, hotel participants, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, local gymnastics clubs, as well as local sponsors and celebrities. All participants can be assured of fantastic hospitality and VIP treatment in 1994! The LOC also reminds USA Gymnastics of their beautiful setting, enviable climate, and outstanding tourist attractions and amenities.

Palm Springs f1Jesert Museum

Open daily 10am-4pm, Fri. Ipm-8pm, Closed Mon.

$5 Adults, $2 Children 6-17yrs., $4 Seniors 62+ yrs.

Art Galleries

Natural Science Galleries

Performing Arts Galleries (Annenberg Theater)

hosts world class dance, theater & musical performances

Mesquite golf & Country Club

18 hole championship golf course

Putting & chipping greens, driving range & pro- shop

Snack bar & restaurant

All the features of a private country club & open to the public.

In the heart of Palm Springs, 2700 E. Mesquite Ave., just off Farrell Dr.

%e Living f1Jesert (Wildlife & Botanical Park)

Open daily 9am-5pm

General Admin. $7, group rates avail. for 15+ w/adv. reservations

Guided and self-guided tours avail.

Colorful gardens, rare exotic animals

15 miles East of Palm Springs, 11/2 mi. S. of Hwy. 111 at 47-900

Partola Ave., Palm Desert,CA

f1Jream 1'{igfits (Hot Air Balloon Adventures)

Group rates available by quote.

1V-n's Cafe/Bistro Open Tue.- Sun.

Ditmers from $8.95-13.95 plus tax

Located: 68-369 E. Palm Canyon, Cathedral City, CA 92234

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Merchandise itnormation

Right to par ticipate in Team/Club display

Entry into all event ses­sions

JlwardS: The USA Gymnaestrada is

NOT a competition, however, the LOC will present some spe­cial "fun" awards . In addition, every credentialled participant will receive a Participation Cer­tificate, a Gymnaestrada T-shirt, and other sponsor give-aways.

Crecfentia[s: All registered participants

will receive a credential permit­ting entry to all Gymnaestrada events and activities as well as other "bonus" values to be an­nounced by the LOC.

fJicKf-tSa{es: The LOC will sell tickets to

the general public for selected

Inaian Canyons Open daily 8am-5pm

$5 Adults, $1 Children 6-12 yrs., $2.50 Seniors 62+ yrs.

Group reservations, and guided tours available

Beatiful canyons, hot springs, hiking trail, bird­watching

Wa{{y 's f1Jesert rrurtle Open for dinner 7 days & lunclyon Fri.

Continental Cuisine

Ditm er & Nightly Entertaimnent

Entrees from $16.50-30.75

Located: 71775 Hwy 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

General Gymnastics

(jenera{ Scfiedu{e NOTE: This tentative schedule is subject to chan ge. Watch for notifica­

tion in future issues of Tec1U1ique.

%ursaay Daytime 1:00 PM

Evening

J"riaay Daytime

4:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 9:00 PM

Saturcfay 8:00-noon 1:00-4:00 5:30-6:30 6:30-8:00 9:00

Sunaay 8:00-noon 12:00-1 :30 1 :30-2:00 2:00-4:00 Evening

9vfonaay

For "early arrival" groups Tours and other sacializatian and fun! Golf Outing-Mesquite Golf Club. Tee-time at 1 :00 PM. Info will be provided to all wha complete the form on page 26. Gymnaestrada groups will be featured guests and performers at the downtown Palm Springs "Village Fest". More information to follow.

Groups arrive in the morning. Practice times will be available. Special educational workshops are planned. Early "Tee-time Gymnaestrada Golf Scramble" for the adults. Tours and special activities planned for the youth participants. Official Group check-in Opening Ceremonies Workshop sessions Social activity for all participants

Group rehearsals and workshop sessions Group performances and workshop sessions Rehearsal for Gala Showcase Gala Showcase Dress Rehearsal Performance Social activity

Mass display training and workshop sessions Lunch Preparation for Gala Showcase Gala Showcase performance Departures for some groups ... Social activity

Departures for remaining groups

performances to be announced later.

moval of any additional equipment or props.

:;{ost airfine: To be announced.

Performance Parame ters 1. Performance area-one (1)

42' x 42' competition-type spring floor will be provided centered in a basketball floor. There will be a "stage-front". The" stage-back" area will be draped. Groups w ill be able to utilize the floor areas to stage right and left of the spring floor.

2. Performance length (time)-Displays are to be a m aximum of 15 minutes . This includes entrances/ exits and the placement/ re-

3. Number in group-Sug­gested number is 10 or MORE per group, but groups of 6 or more will be accepted.

4. Music-Each group must provide a cassette to the LOC and an individual who can direct and assist the A V per­sonnel.

5. Equipment-the LOC will provide the basic spring floor, and sound system. At this time, the member LOC gym­nastics clubs have agreed to provide additional equip­ment (skill cushions, landing mats, etc. -please advise us of your needs so that we can begin work on this!)

All o ther equipment and props must be supplied by the Groups. (Remember that you will need to get all of this on and off stage quickly!) In General Gymnastics (GG) "equipment" might include h'aditional artistic gymnastics equipment as well as non­traditional equipment such as ladders, chairs, parachutes, and so for th.

6. Theme-Please focus on Amer ican and regional themes in the selection of your program music and characteristic movement cho­reography. Th is event is somewhat of a selection op­portunity for Groups desir­ing to represent USA Gym­nastics at the 1995 World Gymnaestrada in Berlin, Ger­many. All groups who plan to a ttend the World Gymnaestrada should focus on showcasing American themes or unique regional themes.

7. Staging-Prior to each group's performance, they wi ll be provided with a warm-up and staging pe­riod just prior to their per­formance .

(jymneastraaaShowcase (j a{a Performance(s)

The Gala Performances will be open to the public. All reg­istered groups will partici­pate. In order to keep the Gala Showcase within a 1.5-2 h our time-frame, groups should be prepared for a five minute presenta tion. This can either be an excerpt from the 15 minute program or a program that is spe­cially choreographed for the Gala.

If possible, US Gymnastics would appreciate receipt of a videotape of your group when you register. This does not n ee d to be yo ur Gymnaestrada performance piece, but just something that

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

gives us an idea of what you do! This will assist us in form ing the program for the Gala.

All p ar ticipating groups participate in the Opening Ceremonies and the Gala March-in.

Based upon the review of the videotapes sent to USA Gym­nastics, some groups may be asked to provide a longer pro­gram for the Gala-this will be at the discretion of the LOC an USA Gymnastics.

What is (jenera{ (jymnastics ana the (jymnaestraaa?

General Gymnastics is the term used by the FIG to describe that aspect of gymnastics that is leisu re-oriented and offers a range of exercise programs. The Gymneastrada is the world event conducted every four years by the FIG where nations come together to celebrate ten days of gymnas tics p erfor­mances and exhibitions. The FIG has given permission for na­tional Federations (like USA Gymnastics) to use the term Gymnaestrada when conduct­ing one (1) nationally organized event each year.

What are the Objectives of the (jymnaestraaa Showcase?

To promote the value and diversity of gymnastics to public community.

To increase participation in gymnastics irrespective of age, gender, or ability.

To provide an incentive and motivation for recreational gymnasts to display their tal­ents.

To provide an opportunity for sharing of knowledge, ideas and new developments.

To assist in the general and technical ed uca tion of coaches.

,------------------1 I ". , " " I '. ,," , " I I I I I

- . , ..

P[ease arM my name or yroup to the yymnaestrarfa :Maifing .List

Contact name _________________ _

Title __________________ _

Address _________________ _

City ________________ _

State ______ _ Zip _________ _

Phone: Day _______ _ Night _______ _

Organization you represent ______________ _

Address __________________ _

City ________________ _

State ______ _ Zip __________ _

OWl. Please fill aut and return to: I GYMNASTICS Attn: Amy Oler, USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, I L 201 S. Capitol, Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 I __________________ --.J

To be a "stepping stone" to­wards participation in a World Gymnaestrada.

Wfiat 'l(jnas of Performances (e{fiioitions) are Permissi6{e?

Almost anything! Large and small group displays. Artistic gymnastics, educational gym­nastics, dance, rhy thmic, aerobics, clown, and many other possibilities exist. Group partici­pants may be male, female, or mixed groups of all ages- chil­dren to seniors. This can be a fantastic activity for many of your Club members who don't get the chance to travel and oth­erwise participate in USA Gym­nastics Junior Olympic pro­grams. The participants don't need to be high level competi­tive athletes! Involve your total

group in this activity, even the parents! This is "Gymnastics for All!"

Each group that responds to the accompanying Information Form, will receive a free video­tape to them an idea of the wide range of possibilities. Interested groups may purchase additional videotapes through USA Gym­nastics Merchandise of previous World Gymnaestrada events . (see attached listing)

yes, we are interestea! what sfiou{tf we ao ne{t?

Don't procrastinate. Use the form on this page to add your Group's name to our Gymnaestrada mailing list to receive additional information. If you have a computer and a modem, join USA Gymnastics Online! to receive up-to-the­minute information regarding GG and the Gymnaestrada.

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GYMNASTICS PROGRAM

,"OO&·"C~OWN~TROPHY I Odell Plaza, Dept. GA4T, Yonkers, NY 10701

800-227 -1557 In NY 914-963-0005

FREE ENGRAVING

Introduction Perhaps the most challeng­

ing land ing encountered by ath­letes is the landing of a gymnas­tics skill during competition. Gymnasts encounter a wide range of velocities, surfaces, segmental configurations, and visual conditions prior to im­pact which may influence their ability to successfully execute the landing (Nigg, 1985; McNitt­Gray, 1991; Sid away, McNitt­Gray, & Davis, 1989). The high incid ence of injury to the lower extremi ties of gym­nasts (McAuley et a!., 1987; NCAA, 1986,1990) and those as­socia ted with dismounts (Riccardelli & Pettrone, 1984; Hunter & Torgan, 1983) is reflec­tive of these demands placed on the gymnast during landing. However, to remaininternation­ally competitive, gymnasts must continue to develop and master techniques for safe and success­ful execution of aerial gymnas­tics maneuvers involving mul­tiple rotations.

A high incidence of injuries has been associated with the large forces and force moments encountered during the land­ing phases of aerial gymnastics skills (Andrish, 1985; Lowery & LeVeau, 1982; McAuley, Hudash, Sh ields, Albr ight, Garrick, Requa, & Wallace, 1987; Weiker, 1985). The floor exercise event has been associ­ated with the greatest number of injuries (Garrick & Requa, 1978; NCAA, 1986, 1990; Riccardelli & Pettrone, 1984). The NCAA Injury surveillance data from 1986-1990 indicates 23 % of all injuries in men's gym­nastics and 37% of all injuries in women's gymnastics occurred while gymnasts were participat­ing in the floor exercise event. As more difficult aerial skills are learned, larger impulses during the take-off phase are needed to produce the linear and angular momentum neces­sary for successful completion and landing of the skills. For example, the angular momen­tum observed during flight

Research

phase of tumbling skills pro­gressively increases from 55.9 kg-m2/ s during a single back tuck somersault (Brugge-man, 1987), to 72.5 kg-m2/s during double back tuck somersault (Hwang, Seo, & Liu, 1990), and to 112.02 kg-m2/s during a double back layout somersault (Hwang, et a!., 1990) . The gen­eration of these larger momenta during the take-off phase also requires larger impulses to bring the total body momentum to zero with a single placement of the feet.

Landings of aerial gynmas­tics skills have also produced some of the largest peak reac­tion forces encountered in sport (Nigg, 1985; Panzer, 1987) The peak magnitude of these forces have been shown to increase as the impact veloci ty (McNitt­Gray, 1991) and skill complexity increase (Panzer, 1987). For ex­ample, landings of single back tucked saltos have produced peak vertical reaction forces of eight times the body weight (BW); whereas, double back tucked saltos have produced peak vertical reaction forces ex­ceeding 18 BW (Panzer, 1987). These impact forces have been shown to reach even higher mag­nitudes when the landing is W1-

controlled and the lower ex­tremities are asymmetrically loaded (Panzer, 1987). Repeti­tive application of these large loads to the growing tissues of children may lead to undesir­able adaptations of the tissues (Szot, Boron, & Galaj, 1985), as well as, acute and overuse type injuries (McAuley et a!., 1987; NCAA, 1986, 1990). Thus, safe execution of landings during both practice and in competi­tion contributes to the longevity of the gynmast.

KINETICS OF SUCCESSFUL AND UNSUCCESSFUL GYMNASTICS LANDINGS Jill L. McNitt-Gray, Ph.D., Barry A. Munkasy, M.S., Michelle Welch, and Jacki Heino, P.T.

USC Biomechanics Research Laboratory, Department of Exercise Sciences Universihj of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-0652

Performance errors associ­ated with landings during floor­exercise and during dismounts from the other apparatus often differentiate Olympic Medalists from non-medalists (McNitt­Gray, 1992). For example, a 50% reduction in the number of un­successful landings by the U.s. Women's Team would have moved the team from third to first place. Reducing the num­ber of unsuccessful landings, however, is particularly difficult if the lower extremities of the gymnasts are fatigued, injured or improperly trained to handle the large forces applied during landings. Thus, USA gynmasts must improve their landing and tumbling mechanics to remain competitive, however, they must master these tasks without com­promising the health of their

extremities during interaction with the landing surfaces.

USA gymnasts must improve their landing and

tumbling mechanics to remain competitive,

however, they must master these tasks without

compromising the health of their extremities

during interaction with the landing surfaces.

The purpose of this study was to I) determine the ability of U.S. National Team members to suc­cessfully land basic gymnastics skills on landing mats and spring floors and 2) determine if the impulses applied during contact with landing mats dif­fered between successful and unsuccessful landings. Success­ful landings were defined as those in which the gymnast did not move their fee t after mak­ing contact with the landing surface. Unsuccessful landings were categorized as those in which the gynmast initiated a step or hop forward or a step or hop backward. Quantification of impulses applied during land­ing was achieved by, I) design­ing, installing, and testing a mea­surement system at the U.s. Olympic Training Center which measures forces applied to feet during landings of gymnastics skills performed on a spring floor or a landing mat, and 2) collecting, processing, and analyzing kine­matic and kinetic data acquired during landings performed by

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

I o A 27

I ., A. 28

Research

Figure 1 Note: Reaction force vectors represent the horizontal and vertical distribution 01 the primary impulse INs/kg} applied during Ihe O.5s following initial conlacl.

(on tact Backward

MovemenlDire(tion ~

ReferenceSyslem

L Under Rotation

Step forward

Fv

members of the U.S. Junior and National Teams, as previously discussed by McNitt-Gray et al ., (1993) .

Experimental Design Subject Selection:

Twelve healthy male gym­nasts currently on the U.S. Men's Junior National and National Teams served as subjects during the August 1992 training camps at the USOTC. The mean (stan­dard deviation) height of these team members was 1.67 m (0.048 m), the mean weight was 601.2 N (88.1 N), and the mean age was 15.75 yrs. (0.87 yrs.). The mean number of competitive years in gymnastics was 8.9 yrs. (1 .85 yrs.) and the average num­ber of training hours per week was 19.6 ( 4.9 hrs. /wk.).

Experimental Protocol: During the data collection

session, the gymnasts were asked to initiate standing front and back tuck saltos from a plat­form (0.72 m) and land ona regu­lation gymnastics landing mat (0.12 m) fully supported by a forceplate (Kistler, 0.9 x 0.6 m). As a base of reference, gymnasts were also asked to perform U drop" landings from the plat­form. The drop landing task was performed by stepping out from the platform off a straight left leg with the right leg extended slightly forward. The goal of each task was to successfully land using their normal landing s trat-

Fv

Rotating Landings

Fh

Over Rotation Step Backward

fv

egy. Landings performed with a single placement of the feet were considered to be successful (no performance deductions for steps). Gymnasts were encour­aged to use their normal landing strategy and strive for success­fullandings. Successful landings performed on the mats unsup­ported by the force plate were considered to be successful from a performance point of view. Force data reported for success­ful landings only reflects those landings performed on the land­ing mat fully supported by the force plate . The trials were blocked by task and random­ized between gymnasts.

During the same training camp at the USOTC, the same group of gymnasts were asked to land single back tuck and single back layouts performed from a run, hurdle, round-off, back handspring onto a spring floor fully supported by a force plate (Kistler, 0.6 x 0.9 m) . The goal of the task was to success­fully land using their normal landing strategy. Landings per­formed with a single placement of the feet were considered to be successful (no performance de­ductions for steps). Gymnasts were encouraged to use their normal landing strategy and strive for successful landings. Successful landings performed on the spring floor unsupported by the force plate were consid­ered to be successful from a per­fOl'mance point of view. The tri­als were blocked by skill and performed in order of difficulty.

Table 1 Mean (SO) horizontal and vertical reaction forces measured at the mat plate interface during successful drop, front salta, and back saito landings.

TIME TO

PEAK VERTICAl PEAK VERTICAL

SKILL FORCE (BW) FORCE (S)

M SO M SO

Drop 5.7 0.B7 0.05 0.007 Front Saito B.B 1.4 0.04 0.004 Back Saito B.O 1.4 0.04 0.004

Data Collection and Analysis: During data collection, each

subject performed landings on a landing mat (0.9 m by 0.6 m by 0.12 m) or on a spring floor (0.9 m by 0.6 m) fully supported by a force plate (Kistler, 0.9 m by 0.6 m) (Figure 1). The reaction forces at the floor-plate interface was quantified for both feet using a Kistler force plate (800 Hz). The forces applied during contact with the landing surface were examined during the first 50 ms after contact. Segment kinemat­ics were recorded simulta­neously using high speed video (200 fps; NAC Motion Analysis System) . Each subject also par­ticipated hip and knee flexion and extensionisokinetic concen­tric muscle testing (Cybex) at velocities of 120, 180, and 300 degrees per second. Reaction force characteristics of landings on spring floor and kinematic and isokinetic test results will be presented in subsequent papers.

Results and Discussion

The reaction force results of this study were provided to the athletes and coaching staff within two days of the data col­lection. General results, force­time data summary sheets, and

PEAK PEAK

HORIZONTAL FORCE HORIZONTAL fORCE

NEGATIVE (BW) POSITIVE (BW) M SO M SO

-0.B4 0.2 0.11 0.06 -1.40 1.1 O.Bl 0.34 -2.1 0.7 1.40 0.45

a basic review of tumbling me­chanics was provided in a 45 minute session during an evening meeting as summa­rized in McNitt-Gray et al. (1993) , Individual questions and interpretation of each gymnasts da ta were discussed in conferences with each indi­vidual the next day.

Percentage of Successful Landings Performed

U.s. Junior National Team members participating in this study were able to successfully land 100% of the drop landings performed from a height of 0.72 meters above the surface of a gymnastics landing mat (0.12 m) (Table I), However, the per­cent of landings that were suc­cessfully performed dropped to 74% when landing standing back tuck saltos and 43% when landing standing front tuck saltos under the same height and surface condition. The per­cent of landings successfully performed decreased to 40% when performing back tuck saltos and to 36% when per­forming back layouts from a run, hurdle, round-off, back handspring onto a spring floor.

Landings are difficult. Even the most

accomplished gymnasts competing in the 1992

Olympic games demonstrated landing success

rates under 50%. Landings alone may determine

the outcome of the meet.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Research

Table 2 Mean (SD) horizontal and vertical impulses measured at the mat plate interface during successful and unsuccessful drop, front salta, and back saito landings.

VERTICAL IMPULSE HORIZONTAL IMPULSE

DURING POSITIVE DURING NEGATIVE

HORIZONTAL IMPULSE HORIZONTAL IMPULSE POIITIVE NEGATIVE

(BWs) (BWs)

Solto M SO M

fRONT 1.33 0.80 6.27 Under rololed (slep bockword)

Successful 2.00 0.67 6.10

Overrotoled 2.61 2.00 2.90 (slep forword)

8ACK Underrololed 1.44 1.10 4.00 (slep forword)

Successful 2.00 0.78 6.50

Overrololed 4.82 0.11 2.80 (slep bockword)

The percentages of success­ful landings observed for the J.5. Men's Junior Team partici­pating in this study are consid­erably lower « 50%) than the percentage of successful land­ings performed during the men's compulsory gymnastics competition during the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain McNitt-Gray, 1992). Dur­ing the 1992 men's Olympic compulsory competition, 75.6% of 116 landings observed on all six events were successful. Dur­ing the 1992 men's Olympic compulsory floor exercise com­petition, 81.25% of the 16 land­ings observed were successful. During the last round of the 1992 men's Olympic optional competition, only 25 % of the 24 landings performed on the floor exercise event were successful. Landing success during the 1992 Olympic competition was also greater for backward rotating skills than for forward rotating skills. Gymnasts participating '1n higher placing teams also lemonstrated greater landing success as compared gymnasts on lower placing teams. No dif­ference in landing success was observed between male and fe­male gymnasts.

(BWs) (BWs)

SO M SO fA SO

2.60 0.11 0.11 ·1.28 0.65

1.90 0.13 0.07 ·0.98 0.34

2.10 0.24 0.19 ·0.43 0.35

3.30 0.18 0.1 5 ·0.74 0.89

1.70 0.26 0.10 ·0.87 0.26

1.90 0.94 0.46 ·0.30 0.25

Reaction Forces Mean horizontal and vertical

reaction forces measured at the mat plate interface during suc­cessful drop, front salto, and back salto landings are provided in Table 1. The magnitude and temporal characteristics of these reaction forces are similar to re­action forces observed during drop, front salto, and back saIto landings performed by male col­legiate gymnasts (McNitt-Gray et aI., 1991). In addition, the re­action force characteristics ob­served during landings per­formed in this study were in line wi th those measured during pre­vious studies when landing at comparable velocities on mat surfaces (Bruggeman, 1987; McNitt-Gray, 1991; McNitt-Gray et aI., 1992, McNitt-Gray et al., 1993). The differences in peak vertical reaction force magni­tudes between the drop and sal to landings is most likely due to the higher vertical velocities at contact observed for the salto landings as compared to the drop landings.

Examination of vertical and horizontal impulse characteris­tics between successful and un­successful saIto landings (Table 2) resulted in distinct patterns

Figure 2 Note: Reaction force vectors represent the horilontol and vertical distribution 0' the primary impulse INs/kg} applied during the 0.5s following initial contact.

( Forward Rotating Landings

Movement Dire<tion ~ ~.

Referen(eSyslem

.-J

Over Rotation Slep Forward

Fv

Successful

CM

Fv

(ontact

Under Rotation Slep Backward

Fv

U.S. gymnasts need to improve their landing

mechanics. Improved technique of preceding skills

will enable gymnasts to create favorable

mechanical conditions prior to contact. During

contact with the landing mat, successful and

unsuccessful landings demonstrated distinctive

impulse characteristics.

for under and over rotated land­ings (Figure 2) . During over ro­tated landings, the magnitude of the angular impulse applied by the vertical reaction force in relation to the horizontal reac­tion force impulse was insuffi­cient to reduce the angular mo­mentum of the body at contact. During under rotated landings, the magnitude of the angular impulse applied by the vertical reaction force in relation to the horizontal reaction force im­pulse was excessive in reducing the angular momentum of the body at contact.

Implications of Results

u.s. gymnasts need to im­prove their landing mechanics. Improved teclmique of preced­ing skills will enable gymnasts to create favorable mechanical conditions prior to contact. Dur-

ing contact with the landing mat, successful and unsuccessful landings demonstrated distinc­tive impulse characteristics. Im­mediate feedback of impulse characteristics during landing may facilitate acquisition of suc­cessfullanding techniques under a variety of landing conditions. Reduced exposure to landing forces of these magnitudes may assist in reducing injuries.

Suggestions for Athletes 1. Landings are difficult. Even

the most accomplished gym­nasts competing in the 1992 Olympic games demon­strated landing success rates under 50%. Landings alone may determine the outcome of the meet. Determine how landing performance has in­fluenced the outcome of meets for both your indi­vidual gymnasts and the

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

tt ., A. 29

2.

~I .. A. 30

Research

team as a whole. Compare of repetitions needed to mas- McNitt-Gray, J.L. , Yokoi, T., & Panzer, V.P. (1987). Lower extrem-your teams success rate with ter landings. Millward, C. (1993). Landing ity loads in landings of elite gym-those of Olympic Gynmasts.

References strategy adjustments made by nasts. Unpublished doctoral dis-female gymnasts in response to sertation, University of Oregon.

Design and practice a " land- Andrish, J. T. (1985) . Knee injuries in drop height and mat composi- Riccardelli, E., & Pettrone, F. A. ing compulsory" w hich in- gymnastics. Clinics in Sports tion, Journal of Applied Biome- (1984). Gymnastics injuries: The eludes a variety of landing Medicine, 1, 100-120. chanics,9 (3),173-190. Virginia Experience 1982-83. conditions at contact (e.g. h-av- Bruggemann, G. P. (1987). Biome- McNitt-Gray, J. L. (1993). Kinetics of Technique, 2, 16-18.

eling backward-rotating back- chanics in gynmastics. Medicine the lower extremi ty joints dur- Saito, S., & Yokoi, T.(1982) . Basic

ward, traveliIl.g forward ro- and Sport in Science. 25,142-176. ing drop landings from three programs of cubic spline smooth-

tating backward etc.) . Vary the Federation Internationa le de heights, Journal of Biomechan- ing and digital filtering. Bulletin ics, 25, 1037-1046. of Health and Sports Science,

frictional, deformation, thick- Gymnastique. (1984) . Code of McNitt-Gray, J.L. (1992). Biome- University of Tsukuba, 5, 201-

points. International Gymnastics ness, and spring characteris- Federation, Bericht, West Ger- chanical factors contributing to 206.

tics of the landing surfaces many. successfullandings, USGFSports Weiker, G. G. (1985). Injuries in club within the range your team Garrick, J. G., & Requa, R K. (1978) . Science Congress Proceedings 9, gymnastics. The PhYSician and

m ay expect to encounter dur- Injuries in high school sports. 19-25. Sports Medicine, 4, 63-66.

ing the competitive season . Pediatrics, 6, 469-481 . McNitt-Gray, J.L., KofE, S.R & Hall, Zatsiorsky, V. & Seluyanov, V.

Begin by minimizing the liIl.- B.L. (1992). The influence of (1983) . The mass and intertia Jackson, K.M. (1979) Fitting of math- dance training and foot position characteristics of the main seg-

ear and angular momentum ematical functions to biome- on landing mechanics, Medical ments of the human body. In H. at contact (e.g. low h eights, chanical data. IEEE Transactions Matsui & K. Kobayashi (Eds.)

on Biomedical Engineering, 26, Problems of Performing Ar tists, Biomechanics VIII-B, 1152-1159. minimal horizontal displace- 122-124. 9,87-92. Human Kinetics, Cham paign, IL. ment dming flight, single salto Lowry, C. B., & Leveau, B. F. (1982) McNitt-Gray, J. L. (1991). Kinemat-

Acknowledgments rota tions in tucked posi tions) . A retrospective study of gym- ics and impulse characteristics of Progressively build to levels nastics injuries to competitors drop landings from three heights. The authors would like to thank Ron of linear and angular momen- and noncompeti tors in private International Journal of Sports Brandt and Hideo Mizoguchi and

tum commonly experienced clubs. AmericanJournalofSports Biomechanics, 7, 201-224. their athletes for partiCipating in the

dmingcompetition. With care, Medicine, 10, 237-239. Sid a way, B, McNitt-Gray, J.L., & project. In addition, we would like

McAuley, E., Hudash, G., Shields, Davis, G. (1989) Visual tinting of to thank Sarall Smith and her team gain experience by landing

K., Albright, J.P., Garrick, L muscle preactivation in prepara- of research assistants, Carla Coughlin, skills under less than perfect Requa, R , & Wallace, R.K. (1987). tion for landing, EcolOgical Psy- Tanya Porter, Dave Pease, and Steve conditions (e.g. third tumbling Injuries in women's gymnas- chology, 1(3) 253-264. Fleck of the USOTC and the under·

graduate research assistants of the pass, excess angular m om en- tics-the sta te of the art. The National Collegiate Athletic Asso- USC Biomechanics Laboratory fo r tum etc.). Respect the magni- American J oumal of Sports Medi- ciation (1986,1990). NCAA Injury their invaluable assistance through-tude of landing forces exp eri- cine, 15, (6),558-565. Surveillance System Report: Mis- out the project. We would also like e nced during contact by McNitt-Gray, J.L., Yokoi, T., & sion, KS. to thank Larry Fie and AAI for the

making each landiIl.g count. Millward, C. (1994) . Landing Nigg, B. M. (1985). Biomechanics, donation of equipment necessary to strategies used by gymnasts on load analysis and sport injuries complete the project and the USOC

Create a competitive environ- different landing surfaces, Jour- in the lower extremities. Sports and USA Gymnastics for their finan-ment to minimize the number nal of Applied Biomechanics. Medicine, 2, 367-379. cial support of the projec t.

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COACHES EDUCATION

-­rn < rn Upon completion of

this form send to: _ USA Gymnastics • 201 S. Capitol Ave.

Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN

46225 Attn: PDP

T894

Coaches Education

GRANDPARENTING ApPLICATION Nome Sst!

Address

City State Zip

Phone (day) (night)

Birthdate / / Age USAG Professional No.

Safety Certification: o No DYes expo dote

PDP level Accreditation: o No DYes site/dote

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Please select: OMens o Womens o Rhythmic

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August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Coaching ~-----------------

SCAREDY CAT

Kent Lewis

1414 PaLml10ld Circle West Fort Worth, Texas 76120 (817) 460-8216

s part of her introd u ctory remarks to a gro up of yo ung gym

ts trying out for her team the head coach instructed them to attempt any skills they were told to try. "Don't be a scaredy-cat," she said. "We don't need any scaredy-cats . If you're afraid, maybe you shouldn't be trying out for team." As far as I could tell, none of them had said any­thing to inspire these remarks. To be fair, the tone and de­meanor of this coach indicated that she was trying to encour­age rather than discourage the gYl1masts. Nonetheless, I think her remarks reveal an all too common misunderstanding about, and therefore an inap­propriate response to, fear.

Many coaches seem to re­spond to fear in gymnasts as if it were an impediment to learn­ing. They act as if it were some­thing to be bulldozed out of the way. If attend ed to, a gymnast's fear will make the coach a better coach and the gymnast a better gymnast. Fear is a warning signal that the gymnast or the coach or both are going too fas t . For the gymnast's own good they had better slow down. The requi-

site foundation skills are not solid enough; they are too thin. The gymnast and the coach have more preliminary work to do. Either they are attempting too large a step or they need to im­prove some as p ect of the gymnast's fundamentals .

Calling a fearful gymnast a scaredy-cat doesn't help . Nor does it solve her problem. It makes it worse because now, more than before, she is faced with conflicting command s. Some part of the gymnast's in­ner self is warning her of dan­ger and warning her not to at­tempt the activity. Another part of her wants to master the skill and therefore encourages her to go for it. A third part of her wants to please the coach. And a fourth partofherwants to h'ustthecoach and believe that hel she will not mislead her into injury.

The overwhelming message received by the gymnast when called a derogatory term like scaredy-cat is that her fear is unreasonable and, therefore, she is foolish for even experi­encing fear. The message is that

No one-not a parent, not a teacher, not a

coach-can live for us, grow for us, or perform

gymnastics for us. Therefore, it is imperative that

we look after our own safety. If we don't, serious

injuries are more likely to occur because we are

not fu lly confident and therefore not wholly

committed to what we are doing.

the gymnast's own feelings are invalid and that she should override them in favor of the coach's commands.

Failing to listen to one's own feelings can have very serious consequences. When we fai l to heed our inner voices, we abdi­cate responsibility for our own safety and well-being. The simple truth is that we have to

SHANNON MILLER 1991& 199~ WDI'lc/cMllIpion W'r-*'IIoohCl r-ilod

do our own living. No one- not a parent, not a teacher, not a coach-can live for us, grow for us, or perform gymnastics for us. Therefore, it is imperative that we look af ter our own safety. If we don't, serious inju-1'ies are more likely to occur be­cause we are not fully confident and therefore not wholly com­mitted to what we are doing.

See the top gqmnasts in the countrq compete for a spot

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THE 19 94 COCR'CO LR

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USA GYMNASTICS

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

r~

" A 33

Preschool

PRESCHOOL SURVEY

d RESULTS A. 34 Jennifer Gallahue Lee

Educational Services Coordinator

Introduction The development of a pre­

school instructor certification program is in high demand among USA Gymnastics mem­bership. The educational devel­opment of preschool gymnas­tics ins tructors is crucial because their students are in the devel­opmental stage where they are just beginning to discover how their bodies move and what skills they are capable of per­forming. What a child learns at the preschool age, has a very significant impact on their self­esteem, skill development, and their impression of gymnastics as a fun sport.

The purpose of this survey was primarily to determine the needs of the membership in re­gard to preschool instructor edu­cation. Secondarily, the survey acted as a foundation to draw information to base the compo­nents of the new preschool ac­creditation program.

Results Forty-nine individuals re­

sponded to the survey from ap­proximately May 15 to July 8 through USA Gymnastics Tech­nique magazine and Online!

The survey was divided into three sections:

The first section asked for demographic information (i.e., instructional role, preschool pro­gram location, educational back­ground, specific college degree) . The profile of the individual re­sponding to this survey is a pre­school gymnastics instructor (Chart 1) working in a gymnas­tics club (Chart 2) with an un­dergraduate degree in physical education (Chart 3).

The second section was given in a five point Likert Type scale with five variables. The levels of .responses were based on a scale of one to five. With one being the lowest and five being the highest rank of importance,

The educational development of preschool

gymnastics instructors is crucial because their

students are in the developmental stage where

they are just beginning to discover how their

bodies move and what skills they are capable of

performing. What a child learns at the preschool

age, has a very significant impact on their self­

esteem, skill development, and their impression of

gymnastics as a fun sport.

• Pres<hool (oo(h/inlirucior

D Pres<hool progrom dire<lor

. Gymowner

.Olher

helpfulness , or effectiveness. This section addressed three areas: 1) type of training needed for a preschool gymnastics in­structor; 2) how USA Gymnastics can assist its mem­bers; and 3) the de­livery systems that are most beneficial.

Chart 1-Role

The first ques­tion in this section referred to what kind of training was important for a pre­school gymnastics instructor. Accord­ing to the subjects who participated in the survey, 84 % feel that it is very im-portant for pre­school gymnastics instructor to have CPR and first aid certification. There­suits also show that clinics and work­shops (81 %) and movement educa­tion (73 %) are very much needed. In contrast, only 12% thought a college education was an important asset.

Chart 2-Location

60/0

~ r 60%

Chart 3-Educatlon

• Gym dub

D S(hool

. Olher

• High s<hool

• (ollege

• Groduole

D PollGroduole

• Physimledu<olion

. Olher

D Elemenloryedu<olion

• (ounseling/Humon relolionl

_ Susiness

The second question referred to what USA Gymnastics could do to help your preschool gym- Chart 4-Major/ Degree nastics instruc-tion and preschool programs. The large majority (96 %) sug-gested providing relevant ar­ticles in Technique magazine would be helpful. Also, pro­viding a newsletter and pre­school workshops (both 90 %) were noted as being needed.

The las t question of this sec­tion focused on the delivery systems that were most effec­tive for the education of pre­school instructors. The respon­

The last section in this survey was based on a written response of four minimum requirements (i.e., age, educational background, hours of experience, skills needed) for three entry levels of preschool instructors (i.e., aide, instructor, master instructor). Following are the results of the highest responses for each level of instructor.

dents believed that interactive experiences, clinics and work- Aide shops (both 88%) were the most effecti ve delivery sys­tems followed b y manuals (71%) and videos (67%).

The profile for the Aide based on the results of this survey is a 16-year-old who is currently in

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Preschool

What kind 01 training Is

important lor preslhool

gymnastlrs instrudors?

your preSlhool

gymnast/rs instrudion programs?

What types 01 delivery

systems are most

elledive lor you?

20 40 60 80 100

100

The compiled information strongly suggests that

there is a need to educate preschool gymnastics

instructors and therefore their needs must be

addressed. The data indicates that not only is

safety an important component to the program,

but also the need for practical workshops and

clinics.

high school and has no previous preschool gymnastics teaching experience. This person has ex­cellent communication, works well with and likes children, has a gymnastics background, is pa­tient, enthusiastic, dependable, and eager to learn.

Instructor The profile for the Instruc­

tor based on the results of this survey is an IS-year-old who has grad uated from high school and has one to three years of preschool gymnastics teaching experience. This person is USA Gymnastics Safety Certified, is First Aid and CPR certified, is ed ucated in child development and movement education, has a gymnastics background, is able to discipline, has class management skills, and is good with children.

Master Instructor The profile for the Instructor

based on the results of this sur­vey is a 21-year-old with a col­lege degree with three to five years of preschool gymnastics teaching experience. This per­son is USA Gymnastics Safety Certified, First Aid and CPR cer­tified, has excellent manage­ment skills, can train and super­vise staff, develop curriculums, deal with parents, participates in professional development op­portunities, is educated in child development and movement education, and has a gymnas­tics background.

Conclusion The compiled information

strongly suggests that there is a need to educate preschool gym­nastics instructors and therefore their needs must be addressed. The data indicates that not only is safety an important compo­nent to the program, but also the need for practical workshops and clinics.

Update The Department of Educa­

tional Services and Safety contin­ues its progress in the development of the preschool accreditation program. Following is an up­date on our progress:

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Visits and observations have been made to various gym­nastics clubs and YMCAs. Survey results have been compiled and studied. An organizational outline has been created for the direction of the program. The initial stages of the selec­tion of preschool experts to write and consult is in progress. Currently drafting and out­lining materials for the pro­gram. Will be presenting the new preschool program at the Na­tional Congress in Nashville.

Profiles Aide Age: Educotion:

Age: Education: Experience: Skills:

ren ent R certified

9 ., A 3S

I o A-36

USA GYMNASTICS

EDUCATIONAL PUBLICATIONS

To order any of these publications, use the USA Gymnastics order form on page .2. To receive a Technical catalogue, call USA Gymnastics merchandise department at 317-.237-5060.

PRESCHOOL

DESIGNING PRESCHOOL MOVEMENT PROGRAMS 1992 • Sanders. paper. 152 pp 0 Both a

detailed guide for developing a preschool! movement curriculum and a resource containing developmentally appropriate

movement activities. #3626 S16.00

DEVELOPMENTAL GYMNASTICS 1990 0 O'Quinn 0 paper 0 21S pp 0 Gymnastics

movement education program for kindergarten through 3rd grade.

#3605 S19.95

FITNESS FUN: 85 GAMES AND ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

1992 0 Foster, Hartinger & Smith 0 paper 0 112 pp 0 Provides children with unique and enjoyable activities that consider muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Great for K ·S.

#3601 S12.00

GREAT GAMES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE 1991 0 Gustafson, Wolfe & King 0 paper 0 152 pp 0

(ontains 60 field· tested games and relays for upper elementary through high school. Included: complete descriptions, game diagrams, suggestions for modifications, equipment needed, and safety tips. #3623 S12.00

I CAN DO GYMNASTICS: ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR BEGINNING GYMNASTS 1992 0 Hacker et 010 paper 0 139 pp 0

This is the student version of Sequential Gymnastics II. I (an Do Gymnastics includes check sheets where the gymnast can record his/ her progress in accomplishing the basic movement skills of gymnastics. Parents can

observe their young athlete's progress as well as learn the terminology of gymnastics. The book is

fully illustrated and includes helpful "What to practice" sections. Movement sequence activities include Across the floor, Over the vault, On the beam, Around the bars,

and Rhythmic skills. #3611 S 13.00

MAKE THE TEAM: GYMNASTICS FOR GIRLS 1991 0 Whitlock 0 paper 0 121 pp 0 Sports /IIustrated for Kids: Little, Brawn and (0. oOesigned for young girls expressing interest in gymnastics, this book includes tips, advice, illustrations, and more to help them get started in a sport that is great fun and great exercise. #3630 S5.95

MOVEMENT ACTIVITIES FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD 19920 Totsky·Hammett 0 paper 0 152 pp 0

100+ child·tested movement activities that make learning new skills fun for preschoolers. Four movement areas: locomotar, ball·handling, gymnastics skills, and rhythmic activities. #3622 $15.00

THE JUMP ROPE PRIMER 1991 0 Solis & Budris 0 spiral 0 104 pp 0 Partl

is an introduction to rope jumping; Part II contains over 115 illustrations of specific skills; and Part 11/ provides an eight·lesson unit from the basic two.foot jump to Oouble Dutch.

#3624 S15.00

THE JUMP ROPE PRIMER VIDEO 1991 0 1/ 2" VHS 0 Video demonstrations 01 all the jump rope techniques included in the book, making them easy to understand and teach.

#3625 S49.95

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

No investment! No risk! ELITE/GKWS CONSIGNMENT PROGRAM IS GREAT FOR:

CAMPS • MEETS • PRO SHOPS Each consignment package

offers you a new assortment of leo­tards and bike shorts from our vari­ety print collection. Your package is specifically tailored to your gym's needs and in­cludes merchan­dise manufac­tured especially for consignment. Since you only pay for what you sell and you may return what you don't sell, there is no

risk and no investment - EVER! And don't forget, with our consignment program you'll be able to purchase every item in our catalog at whole­sale prices!

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ASSORTED BIKE SHORTS & VARIETY PRINT LEOTARDS!

Women's Minutes

WOMEN'S AD

d BOARD ~ CONFERENCE

CALL June 22, 1994

The Conference ca ll com­menced at 12:00 PM.

I. ROLL CALL Region I Denise

Porrazzo

Region II Laurel Tindall

Region III Carol Hillenburg

Region IV George Grainger

Region V Kathy Koeth -absent

Region VI Kathy Ostberg

Region VII Jan Greenhawk

Region VIII Hoylene Noble

ABChairman Kathy Feldmann

WPA Kathy Kelly

JOPC Connie Maloney

II. RULES & POLICIES/ OPERATING CODE

The purpose of the call was to finalize the changes in the 1994-95 Rules and Policies and the Op­erating Code.

In regards to the Operating Code, Article VI - Criteria for Nominations:

Recommendation to add to the opening statement:

"Special circumstances involv­ing residency criteria for any State or Regional Chairman po­sition can be petitioned to the Regional Board, in consultation with the National Administra­tive Board Chairman, if neces­sary."

Motion: D. Porrazzo

Second: H . Noble

PASSED

Conference Call adjourned at 2:00 PM.

June, 1993

.0. o GRAM

COl\1MITTEE CONFERENCE CALL July 14,1994

Th e Conference Call menced at 12:00 PM.

com-

I. ROLL CALL Region I Darla Franz

Region II Mike West

Region III Cheryl Jarrett (absent)

Region IV Bryon Hough

Region V John Geddert

Region VI Bob Colarossi (absent)

Region VII Kelli H ill

Region VIII Elaine Thomp-son

Chairman Tom Koll

NABC Kathy Feldmann (absent)

NEPC Roe Kreutzer

WTC Rep Cheryl Hamilton

WJOPCoord . Connie Maloney

II. OPEN SCORING AT JR. OLYMPIC OPTIONAL COMPETITIONS

Recommendation to the WTC that the decision to allow Open Scoring at Optional State Meets (Levels 8, 9 and 10) be at the discretion of the State Board.

Motion - E. Thompson

Second - D. Franz

PASSED

Recommendation to the WTC that the decision to use Open Scoring and/or the flashing of Start Values at OPTIONAL INVITATIONALS be at the discretion of the Meet Director.

Motion - M. West

Second - B. Hough

PASSED

Note: The Women's Technical Committee will be meeting Au-gust 6-8, 1994. Please refer to Minutes of the WTC for the final decision regarding these recom-mendations.

The call terminated at 12:20 PM.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Men's Gymnastics

CHAMPIONSHIPS STATUS OF NCAA MEN'S PROGRAM TO: Professional Members

FROM: Ron Galimore, Men's Program Director USA Gymnastics

DATE: July 14, 1994

help by writing Mr. Cedric Dempsey, Executive Director of NCAA and voicing your concern.

As many of you may already know, the Championships Status of the NCAA Men's Gymnastics Progran1 is currently in peril. Every NCAA sanctioned sport must have at least 40 participating schools in order for the sport to conduct a Championships.

Mr. Cedric Dempsey, Excutive Director National Collegiate Athletic Association 6300 Nall Avenue Mission, Kansas 66202

Currently, there are 32 collegiate institutions which sponsor a men's varsity gymnastics program. There has been a moratorium in place for the past four years which has protected the Champi­onships Status of the Program. USA Gymnastics is seeking to have the moratorium extended through the 1995/96 school year.

I encourage you to take the time to write to Mr. Dempsey as it will have an impact on the NCAA's final decision. In order for us to document these efforts, please send a copy of your correspondence to me at USA Gymnastics: Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Avenue, Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

A review committee convened by the the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors has been working to resolve this issue. You can

Thank you for your concern and for assisting us with this very important issue.

December 8·11; ,1994 Oly~pic Training .(enter

Colorado "Springs, CO

-Featuring prominent Guest Stall

Topics include:

Sports Science - Technical Presentations - Sports Managem"ent

Registration Deadline is November 1, 1994

Judging

Workshop enrollment is unlimited, however, housing availability at the O.T.C. is limited to the first 50 registrants (first come, first served) < • ,.

To be held in conjunction with the Junior National Team Camp (December 4·11,1994)

-To register, send a letter to:

Dennis Mcintyre, Ass!. Men's Program Dire(tor USA Gymnasti(s

Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capital Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225

(317) 237·5050

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

9 ., A 39

I

" A 40

Rhythmic Minutes ------------ --------------~

RHYTHMIC TECHNICAL COMMITTEE

Local Competitions More local competitions are encour­aged in order to give young athletes competitive experiences at reason­able expense. For competitions that are not qualifying events, coaches are encouraged to judge. Coaches at all levels are strongly encouraged to attend judge training sessions.

Rules and Policies/Junior Olyml?ic Technical Manual! Technique Magazine

nas tics office and should be available in the Fall. The Level 7/8 judging video is being finalized (Nyemcsik, Massad). 111eproductionwill be com­pleted sometime in the Fall.

Assignment Procedures Regions are requested to fo llow the judging assignment policies in the Rules aIld Policies

Practice Judging for National Certification

July 5-6, 1994 St. Louis, MO

Present: Candace Feinberg, Chair Andrea Schmid, FIG Representative Diane Massad, Ellen Nyemcisk Helena Greathouse Nora Campbell, Rhythmic Program Director Absent: Norma Zabka, VP Rhythmic Gynmastics

Technical Committee Reorganization Proposal: To reorganize the teclmi­cal committee structure of the Rhyth­mic Program as follows: 1. Nine member voting committee,

eight elec ted members plus the USA FIG teclmical member.

2. Rhythmic Program Direc tor serves as non-voting member.

3. Eight members elec ted even numbered years by all fully cer­tified 7/8 + judges.

4. Chairman is elec ted by commit­tee members every two years and serves on the RPC.

5. Only Brevet and National level judges (including provisional) are eligible for election to the committee.

6. Each committee member w ill assume the leadership responsi­bili ty for one aspect of the r hyth­mic technical work.

7. Major projects (those involving more than basic committee work time) w ill be funded on a project by projec t basis by the rhythmic program with the program di­rector determining the appropri­ate remuneration.

8. The term Junior Olympic Tech­nical Committee w ill be elimi­nated until such time as the num­ber of ju d ges, coaches and athletes warrants an expansion.

9. The judges in each Region will elect one judge (Level 7/8 or above) to serve as the judges as­signment chairman for the Re­gion.

10. RTC members elect a represen­tative to the JOPC every two years.

11. All eligible judges who are in­teres ted w ill be requested to submit a resume for distribu­tion to voters.

12. Committee election w ill take place in September, 1994 with the new committee's first meet­ing in February, 1995.

PASSED 6-0

FIG REPORT by Andrea Schmid 1. The judges for the 1996 Olympic

Garnes will be selected by the FIG Teclmical Committee based upon the results from interna­tional judging.

2. Thirty-four countries have en­tered a Group in the 1994 Paris Cham pionshi ps.

3. The 1996 World Champion­ships w ill be held in Budapest June 21, 22, 23. This w ill be a Group World Championships and w ill include a small num­ber of invited individuals.

4. The n ew comp e tition rules adopted at the FIG Congress will be in effect at the 1995 World Cham pionshi ps.

5. The FIG Technical Committee is currently working on the 1997-2000 Code of Poil1ts . USA judges are encouraged to send Schmid suggested changes and or clarifi­cations by September 15.

Athlete Evaluations at Competitions

It is the professional responsibility of all judges to keep up with aImual technical changes that appear in USA Gynmastics Publications. It is the judges responsibility to maintain a library of current teclmical materials.

Competition Rules The Technical Committee recom­mends that at the 1995 Rhy thmic Challenge the follow ing rules be followed: Senior Competition III plus 2 Cs and 2D's each worth 0.30 Junior Competition II (senior rules) The Technical Committee recom­mends that at the 1995 East and West Level 9 and 10 Competitions both Junior and Seniors be judged by Competition I rules The Technical Committee recom­mends that at the 1995 National Championships the following rules be followed: Juniors Day 1 Competition I (senior rules) Day 2 Com pe tition II (senior

rules) Day 3 Compe tition III (senior

rules) Seniors Day 1 Competition II Day 2 Competition III Day 3 Competition III plus1Cand

1D each worth 0.30 These recommendations will be su b­mitted to the Rhythmic Program Committee August meeting.

Judging Training Videos The Level 9 and 10 video (Feinberg, Greathouse, Zabka) is ready for final stages of production by USA Gym-

The following events may be used to fulfill the practical judging re­quirement: East Open, West Open, RhythmiC Challenge, National ChaJ11pionships, Olympic Festival. This requirement was made to insure that a judge has experienced judging at a high level meet before receiving National Cer­tification, not as a pass/ fail situation. Results, following the format of the FIG evaluations, will be given to the practice judge for feedback and in­formation along with a rating of above average, average, below average so that a judge will be made aware of strengths and weaknesses.

National Judges Evaluation Following the National Champion­ships in 1995 all National and above level judges w ill again be evaluate by peers and coaches (similar to th one completed in 1992).

National Team Evaluation Schmid and Feinberg w ill conduct individual conferences w ith the top three senior a thle tes and their coaches immediately following the Olympic Festival.

Junior Olympic Program Nyemcsik, Massad, and Greathouse will review the JO Technical Hand­book for additions, changes, claI'ifi­cations for the 1995 season. Particu­lar a ttention w ill be given to expanding and clarifying the rules for JO Group Judging. The Rhythmic Teclmical HaIldbook will be u pda ted aJ1d available from USA Gynmastics merchandise in September.

Respectfully submitted by Nom Camp­bell, Rhythmic Program Director

The committee reaffirmed previous position: If coaches want to include a session of evaluation following a competition, this session must be built into the competition I----'---------- -----..L----- - - --------. schedule and included in the judges contract. Proper and meaningful evaluations are time con­suming; therefore if a meet director includes a n evaluation session within the framework of a com­petition it may mean lim­iting the number of en­tries so that adequate time is allotted for evaluations. Meet organizers m ay charge an additional fee for the evaluation session to cover the judges costs.

RSG ANNOUNCEMENT Events for the 1994-95 Competitive Season

Level 6

Level 7

LevelS

Level 9, 10

JOGroup

RFX, Rope, Hoop, Ribbon

RFX, Rope, Hoop (compulsory or optional), Ribbon

RFX, Rope, Hoop, Ribbon

JR Rope, Hoop, Clubs, Ribbon

SR Rope, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon

4 Balls (following the Championships in October)

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Rhythmic Gymnastics

The Concept of Two Gymnasts on a Floor: At the lower levels of competition, the philosophy is to introduce

gymnasts to the competitive experience with as li ttle undue stress as possible. To learn routines with complex skills found in rhythmic gymnastics is a large step in and of itself. Combine this with the thought of performing alone on a carpet, being judged by an ad ult, and trying to win the approval of your parents and the experience can become overwhelming. By reducing these external worries, gynmasts can more effectively concentrate on the task at hand: doing the skills to the best of her ability. The Junior Olympic Program has sought to reduce the number of new experiences involved for Levels S & 6 by creating routines designed for two gymnasts performing at a time.

The creation of routines which are choreographed for two gymnasts performing simultaneously has been beneficial to all concerned parties. Young athletes are eased into the thought of performing by themsel ves in front of audiences, meet directors can allow more gynmasts into their events, and parents save wear and tear on their gluteus maximus.

Coaches can also benefit by using the system during training sessions because it is a more efficient use of time. The key is for coaches to train their competitive gymnasts during workout ses­sions for the "2 on a floor" system.

As long as coaches understand the dynamics of the routine, the two-gymnast format works wonderfully. Common problems may be solved by careful analysis of the floor patterns and attention paid by meet directors to the placement of judges and athlete march-in areas.

I. Level 5 Floor Patterns Modified floor patterns for LevelS were published in Technique

(September / October 1993). In theory, each gymnast works only on half of the floor exercise area. Some confusion arose during the competitive season concerning the correct division of the carpet. It was discovered that RFX and Clubs require division parallel to Side 1; whereas Rope, Hoop, Ball, and Ribbon require division perpen­dicular to Side 1.

The following remodification divides the carpet in half parallel to Side 1, allowing the gymnast to perform closer to her own judge and to virtually disregard the other competitor. Coaches must be aware and convey to their students the importance of traveling on the traveling steps and directing the long passes toward a certain point. The hoop toss with stride leap and scissors, for example, is directed toward the middle of Side 3. Giving the athletes a landmark

'I1it 1st 'Rjiyt ~ljroup Cliampionsliips to 6e fieU tnl 0'1), ttt tlOn wufi tfie 1994 (jy"maestraaa

Evenl: J{oop _ Junior O{ymplc CompetitIOn 'lVz{es '- . 4 glrrs per grOilp

Slle: • Pa{mSpnllgs, CJI.

Preliminary Com I n: :Fnaay, Oct06er 28, 1994

Final Compeillio Sunaay, Oct06er 30, 1994

Enlry Fee: $100 per group 'Entry f ee entit{es group participants to attena a{{ (jymllaestraaa events alia participant activities

Enlry deadline: Septem6er 1, 1994

and entry form call or write Nora Campbell at USA Gymnastics

How TO TRAIN FLOOR PATTERNS FOR Two GYMNASTS Paula Hilliker, Assistant Rhythmic Program Director

to move toward (picture on the wall, table beside the floor) can be done quickly and easily during warm-ups if training has been conducted in the same manner.

RFX, Clubs-Perform these routines exactly as written wilh no modification. C4 SideS CO

......• :.-;, . Rope '. '-. Phrose 1 Stort focing corner 8 to focilitote 0 full 360°

"-..• lurn 10 R or l.

~ Phrose 2 T rovelto corner 8.

~,

Phrose 3 Floor work. --~-.. , Phrose 4 Slep hop in oltilude moving bock olong the some line. I(onnol be

C2 Side 1 CS shown. I

C4 SideS cs

.'_:' Hoop '-"~~~: . ..... -- - . ~

Phrose 1 As written. Run oround hoop 10 foce Side 5. ------- Phrose 2 Smoillrovel on colleop, slep hop.

~ ~, Phrose 3 Direct loss toword middle of Side 3.

,--" Phrose 4 Troveltoword middle of Side 3. - Gymnast #/

C2 SId., C8

C4 Side S CO - - Gymnast #2

"'.-. Ball • Start

'- Phrose 1 Floor work focing Side 3. • Finish • . >. Phrose 2 Full 3600 turn focing Side 3.

~~ Phrose 3 Directlrovelloword (orner 4. ~,

Phrose 4 Bolonce focing Side 1. ~,

Phrose 5 Floor work as wriHen. ~

C2 Side 1 C8

C4 SideS CO

-- . Ribbon '-

Phrose 1 As wriHen, slorling closer 10 cenler of corpellhon originolly incicoted.

• Direct choine' lurns more toword Side 3.

~ '~ Phrose 2 Floor work as wriHen. Direct ossemble's loword (orner 8_

~, Phrose 3 Trovelloword (orner 8. ~- Phrose 4 As wriHen.

C2 Side 1 C8

II. Level 6 The floor patterns for Level 6 are found at the end of each routine.

The solid line indicates Gymnast #1 facing Side 1. The dotted line indicates Gymnast #2 facing Side 5. If training in the gym includes lessons relating to proper directional movement, undesirable inter­action between competing gymnasts will be minimized. The fol­lowing general tips should also be helpful.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

I ., A 41

I

" A. 42

Rhythmic Gymnastics

RFX The two gynmasts pass to the LEFT of each other (wrong way on US highways, correct in England). To facilitate this have the gynmast begin one step to the LEFT of the diagonal. Train the athlete to march-in from the corner 1-2, one step left and right foot behind to pose. Focus for the body circumduction and turn should be designated during the warm-up. Leaps and cartwheel should travel as far to the corner as possible. The tour jete and back walkover then follow the same line as the beginning of the routine. (LEFT of diagonal). Try marking a diagonal line from Corner 2 to Corner 6 on the floor and stress to the athletes that they are not to cross the line throughout the RFX routine if necessary.

ROPE Remind the gynmast to start FAR A WAY from her judge. This should alleviate any spatial conflicts with the other gynmast. The Rope routine is choreographed with each gynmast using her own half of the carpet divided diagonally. Try marking the d iagonal if a visual aid is needed.

HOOP The source of trouble in the hoop routine is the sagittal toss with split leap and cat leap . If this toss is misdirected, the res t of the routine is affected . The correct direction for the toss is to the RIGHT of the MIDDLE of Side 5. This will keep the gynmasts well to the right of each other for the boomerang roll and well apar t for the toss forward roll. With the exception of the final roll forward, each gynmast works on half of the floor divided from Side 1 to Side 5.

BALL The original floor patterns published in the Compulsory text should be modified to move the two arm roll further into Corner 8 (Gynmast # l ). No other conflicts.

CLUBS No conflict.

RIBBON The main problem area is the section incl uding fouette hops, side bodywave and body circumduction . Gynmasts are working this section too close to the center of the carpet. It is necessary to begin the routine fur ther from Side 1 than indicated and to emphasize the importance of traveling for the tour jete. It is also quite easy for inexperienced gynmasts to lose their bearings during the split series on the floor, thus affecting the leap pass and final toss. When performed correctly, the knee over which the gynmast stands is pointing to the corner where the leaps will be directed. The gynmasts should then pass to the RIGHT of each other during the leaps. The fl oor pa ttern for r ibbon would thus be modified as shown at righ t.

III. Competition Set-up With proper training gym­

nasts can learn to work with

Side 3

C4 Side 5 C6 .----------, .-..

C2 Side 1 C8

Side 7

another athlete on the floor. Coaches can help by training the sal u te and march-in as part of the routine. Meet directors can also help by preparing a competition set-up which allows the gynmast to face the same judges table for every event. A detailed description of how this can be accomplished will be included in the 1994 USA Gynmastics Rhythmic Rules and Policies.

Together we can all make a successful transi tion in thinking to the two-gynmast format. As with any system, growth demands changes and rhythmic gynmastics is certainly growing.

JANUARY 1995 DEBUT!

USA Gymnastics is pleased to offer its member clubs a "golden" opportunity.

Beginning January 1995. our new retail sales program will offer member clubs the chance to provide the most fashionable Reebok® active wear distinguished with USA Gymnastics' insignia. This exclusively designed product line will be sold to clubs at wholesale prices. making this special pro­gram a profitable fundraising opportunity.

USA Gymnastics has a renewed dedication to member services. Take advantage of our commitment to club promotion and feature USA Gymnastics ap­parel and fitness clothing in your club and pro shop.

For assistance, call our staff Monday-Friday (8:30 am-5:30 pm EST). We're available to answer questions, listen to com­ments and take suggestions. We'd love to hear from you!

liSA GYMNASTICS 317.237.5060 ~C!C!bok

~

WHY SEL...L... OFFICIAL... USA GYMNASTICS APPAREL... IN YOUR CL...Ue?

~ Raise funds for your clubs

~ Provide your club members the opportunity to associate with the image and success of the U.S. National Teams

~ Support the U.S. Olympic and National teams and training programs

W,L...L... I GET SUPPORT FROM USA GYMNASTICS?

Yes! In addition to offering this exciting program and exclusively designed product, USA Gymnastics will help you with your merchandising business.

Your first order will contain a marketing packaged designed with you, the club owner, in mind. We'll include posters and point-of-purchase materials that are de­signed to grab the attent ion of your buyer. We'll send you periodic updates regarding the Club Sales Program. You'll also receive notices of special promotional mer­chandise and sales.

August 1994 TECHNIQ UE

Women's Judging

USA GYMNASTICS JUDGES' FEE STRUCTURE

(Effective August I, 1994-July 31, 1997)

Consistent with the provisions of the Amateur Sports Act of 1978, the United States Olympic Committee has designated USA Gymnastics as the national governing body for the sport of gymnas­tics in the United States. As reflected in its Articles of Incorporation and its conduct under those Articles, USA Gymnastics' responsi­bilities for governing the sport of gymnastics include the regulation of matters relating to the training, testing, certification and assign­ment of judges for gymnastics competition conducted or sanctioned by USA Gymnastics.

ludges' responsibilities Individual judges shall perform their function as a judge of the Meet according to the USA Gymnastics Rules and Policies, membership policies and the USA Gymnastics Code of Ethics. Individual judges shall be limited to judging, evaluating and scoring the competition. Individual judges will be bound by the terms of the individual contract agreed upon for that particular meet. Judges are responsible, according to all appropriate laws and jurisdiction, for all financial reporting and identification of pay­ments/ reimbursements received to the appropriate agencies (i.e. IRS).

The Individual judge shall sign and return the contract to the Meet Director.

Meet Director Responsibilities The USA Gymnastics Meet Director shall follow the USAG Rules and Policies for sanctioned events. The USA Gymnastics Meet Director will not pay fees that exceed the USAG Judges Compensation Package for payment of judges at any sanctioned competition. If so deSignated by the State/Regional Boards, the USAG Meet Director MAY utilize the NAWGJ as the contracting body for officials for USAG Sanctioned Meets. Compensation will be paid directly to the individual judge. In the event that the USAG Meet Director fails to comply with the terms of the sanction or the USAG Rules and Policies, judges may, at their own discretion, refuse to perform any judging obligations. However, all/both parties should make every im­mediate attempt/ effort to resolve any disputes, in keeping with the best interest of the athletes involved. No such action should ever be taken that would jeopardize or compromise the safety or well being of the child/ athlete. The Meet Director will be bound by the terms of the individual contract agreed upon for that particular meet.

I. Considerations: A. Judges should report 30 minutes prior to march-in for local and

invitational competitions, unless otherwise specified by the Meet Referee. A $5.00 fine will be deducted from the check of any official who does not report 15 minutes prior to march-in.

B. Reporting time for those competitions requiring video analysis may be up to one (1) hour prior to march-in. The reporting time will be specified by the Meet Referee. A $5.00 fine will be deducted from the check of any official who does not report as per the contract.

C. Fees are paid based upon the contracted march-in time until the last competitor of the meet has completed her exercise.

D. A portion of the hourly rate may be broken into halves, not less. Round off to the nearest half hour (i.e., 9:01 to 9:14 will be consid­ered as 9:00; between 9:15 and 9:29 will be considered as 9:30).

E. The above fees will be applicable for all USAG Sanctioned Events unless otherwise specified in advance by the USA Gymnastics President.

F. This Fee Structure is in effect for all USAG Competitions, as specified.

G. If judging begins before the maximum allotted break time has elapsed, judging time begins.

II. Travel A. No Mileage will be paid for the first 30 miles. The standard IRS

rate (29 cents per mile for 1994) will be paid to the driver only. Riders fees are not paid. Plane, train or bus travel expenses as stated on the contract shall be paid in full by the Meet Director. The total mileage cost should not exceed the cost of an airline ticket to the same location.

B. Round trip travel expenses to and from the airport, airport parking, taxi or limousine service as stated on the contact shall be paid by the Meet Director. These expenses must be listed on the contract and be approved by the contracting official in order to be compensated by the Meet Director. Only standard and cus­tomary expenses with accompanying receipts will be reim­bursed in the actual amounts.

C. It is requested that judges consider carpooling whenever pos­sible. If a judge chooses not to carpool for any reason, mileage will not be paid to that judge unless pre-arranged with the Meet Director.

D. In the case of a competition spanning over two or more days, if lodging is provided to the judge by the Meet Director and thejudge chooses to return home and drive back the second (and successive) days, round-trip mileage will be paid only once, unless pre­arrangements have been made with the Meet Director.

E. No other expenses (such as baby-sitters, car repairs, car rental, reimbursement for lost salary, or other normal work related expenses) will be paid.

III. Lodging If a judge must stay overnight prior to, during or following the

competition, lodging must be provided and paid for by the Meet Director. The form of accommodation must be specified in the judge' s contract. Accommodations should be based on double occupancy.

IV. Per diem A. Day (local) meets

No per diem will be paid for competitions that require the judge to be at the meet site for less than 3 hours, unless round trip mileage is 100 miles or more. These rates are determined regard­less of departure or arrival time to the judge's home. Per Diem compensation should be paid to the judges at a rate of:

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

I o A. 43

FLIPOVER

s You'll flip over USA Gymnasticsl This magazine covers important national and internationrd events leading up to, and including, the 1996 Olympic Games. Get to know the gymnasts through interviews, profiles and competition results. USA Gymnastics gives comprehensive gymnastics coverage in six, full color issues for only $15.00. Foreign subscriptions $32.00. Don't miss what USA Gymnastics has to offer! ,-----------------,

Please enter my subscription immediately. Enclosed is my check or money order for six issues of USA Gymnastics.

Name ______________________________________ __

Address ____________________________________ _

Ci~-----------------------------------

State ___ _ Zip _____ _ Phone ______ __

Check one: D Gymnast/ age_ D Coach

D Parent D Other ___ _

U&l~ GYMNASTICS

Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol Avenue I T894 Indianapolis, IN 46225 I L _________________ --.J

$10.00 Diem-When on-site responsibilities are at least 3 hours but less than 8 hours. (Time begins with reporting time to include meetings and competition.) $20.00 Diem-When on-site responsibilities are 8 hours or more. $10.00 per meal (up to a maximum of $20.00 per day) is assessed for any meals not provided by the Meet Director.

B. Overnight meets All meals not provided by the Meet Director are compensated at a rate of $10.00 per meal to a maximum of $25.00 per day.

V. Modifications If any conditions on the contract are altered, it is the responsibil­

i~ of the Meet Director to contact the individual judge(s) and the CONTRACTING OFFICIAL and provide that information to BOTH.

VI. Cancellation If the contract obligations are not fulfilled by either par~ because

of extenuating circumstances, no mandatory penalties will be ap­plied to either party.

Example: Inclement weather (which would prohibit traveling) Grave illness

Failure to comply with the contractual agreement will result in the following:

A. On the Meet Director's part: A minimum of 7 days notice is required for cancellation of officials. If cancellation of officials occurs less than seven days prior to the meet, the Meet Director is responsible for payment of 3 hours per judge and any non-refundable expenses incurred.

B. On the Judges' Part If a judge fails to appear without notifying the Meet Director, a penalty of 3 hours and any non-refundable expenses incurred by the Meet Director will be paid to the Meet Director by the judge.

VII. Hourly Meet Fees Judges will be paid an hourly fee, according to their rating, with

a minimum payment of two hours.

VIII. Championship Meet Fees Rationale statement: Due to additional financial considerations

at these Championship meets, judges hourly rates will be lower than regular sanctioned competitions. The hourly rates are as follows, with a minimum of two (2) hours:

A. Regional Championships Rating Hourly Rate Brevet/Nat'! Elite $17.00 Elite $15.00 Level 10 $13.00 Level 9 $11.00 Championship Meet fees will be paid at Regional competitions. State Meet fees may be negotiated by State Boards and the contracting official, but cannot exceed the basic fee schedule.

B. National Meet Fees-(J.O. Nationals, National Gymnastics Fes­tival & Classics) Rating All eligible

Daily Rate Half Day Rate $125.00 $60.00

IX. CHIEF JUDGE/MEET REFEREE PAYMENT (Applies to J.O. meets only)

A Meet Referee/Chief Judge shall receive an additional $10.00 fee per day for State and above competitions. No dual compensation is given if the Meet Referee also serves as a Chief Judge.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Hourly Rate

Hours

2

2.5

3

3.5

4

4.5

5

5.5

6

6.5

7

7.5

8

8.5

9

9.5

Per Diem

$10

$20

Mileage

25 23

Brevet & National

Elite Elite

50.00 46.00

62.50 57.50

75.00 69.00

87.50 80.50

100.00 92.00

112.50 103.50

125.00 115.00

137.50 126.50

150.00 138.00

162.50 149.50

175.00 161.00

187.50 172.50

200.00 184.00

212.50 195.50

225.00 207.00

237.50 218.50

Local

3-7 1/ 2

8+ hours

21

10

42.00

52.50

63.00

73.50

84.00

94.50

105.00

115.50

126.00

136.50

147.00

157.50

168.00

178.50

189.00

199.50

Overnight

$10/ meal or

max. of $25/ day

$.29 per mile (or current IRS rate) after the first 30 miles RT

State Meets: Same as Local/Regional or negotiated

Regional Championships:

Brevet/Nat'! Elite

Elite

Level 10

Level 9

National Championships:

Daily

/2 Day

$17/ Hrs.

$15/ Hr.

$13/Hr.

$l1/Hr.

$125.00

$ 60.00

Meet Referee/Head Judge Fee(J.O. only) State & above meets: $10

All fees are based on a minimum of 2 hours.

Women's Judging

18

9

36.00

45.00

54.00

63.00

72.00

81.00

90.00

99.00

108.00

117.00

126.00

135.00

144.00

153.00

162.00

171.00

Judging TIme

16 IS 12 10 2 or less

3

4

6-7-8 8 6-7 5 5

32.00 30.00 24.00 20.00 6

40.00 37.50 30.00 25.00 7

8 48.00 45.00 36.00 30.00 9 56.00 52.50 42.00 35.00

64.00 60.00 48.00 40.00

72.00 67.50 54.00 45.00

80.00 75.00 60.00 50.00

88.00 82.50 66.00 55.00

96.00 90.00 72.00 60.00

104.00 97.50 78.00 65.00

112.00 105.00 84.00 70.00

120.00 112.50 90.00 75.00

128.00 120.00 96.00 80.00

136.00 127.50 102.00 85.00

144.00 135.00 108.00 90.00

152.00 142.50 114.00 95.00

POSITION AVAILABLE

ARE YOU READY TO JOIN THE

CLUB MED® CIRCUS?! CLUB MED® is accepting resumes from expe­

rienced gymnasts eager to learn and teach cir­cus skills for 6-12 month contracts in interna­tional environments. For more information, call CLUB MED MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. recruitment line at (407) 337-6660.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Break TIme

0

1

2

2

2.5 I 3 0 3.5 i~ 4 4S

I o A 46

Women's Program

IR. OLYMPIC OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS {EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1994)

REQUIREMENTS lEVElB (8EGINNER) lEVEl 9 (INTERMEDIATE) lEVEl 10 (ADVANCED) .~ -

VALUE PARTS 4 A's, 4 B's, 0 ('S 3 A's, 48's, I C 3 A's, 38's, 2 ('s

START VALUE 9.6 maximum 9.B Maximum 10.00 Maximum

80NUS Not eligible for 80nus Maximum of 0.20 80nus Maximum of 0.40 80nus

DIFFICULTY RESTRICTIONS FOR 8ARS, "0" or "E" will VOID the exercise. No difficulty restrictions, however if a No restrictions BEAM & flOOR "C" Gymnastics (dance) &/or aero- "0" or "E" element is performed, it

strength-balance elements are receives "C" Value Part eredit and allowed. may fulfill compositional and

All other "(' s" will not receive credit. Special requirements.

VAU LTS AllOWED Group I & 3 Vaults (Handsprings & All Group I, 2, & 3 Vaults are allowed; All vaults from Groups 1, 2, 3, & 4 Tsukaharas) valued at 9.50 or less. however any vault performed that All other vaults are not permitted is valued at 9.9 or 10.0 will receive and if performed, would VOID the a maximum start value of 9.B. event. Gr. 4 (Round-off entry) vaults are

NOT permitted.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 8ARS: 8ARS: BARS: *Differs from FIG 10 elements 10 elements 10 elements

*Element Changes-J.O. ONLY *2 bar changes *2 bar changes *2 bar changes *1 flight element, minimum of "8" *1 flight element, minimum of "8" 2 Flight elements, minimum of "8"

8ars *Directional change not required I directional change I directional change *Minimum of "A" dismount Minimum of "8" dismount Minimum of "8" dismount

#B.201 ~=C #8.206 ~=C

8EAM: 8EAM: 8EAM: *Aero Series with I flight element Aero Series with 2 or more flight Aero Series with 2 or more flight

elements elements Floor Gymnastics series of 2 or more elements Gymnastics series of 2 or more elements Gymnastics series of 2 or more element

#B.306 J..Q.. "' =D Mixed series of 2 or more elements Mixed series of 2 or more elements Mixed series of 2 or more elements

(G/A or A/ G) (G/A or A/G) (G/A or A/G)

#B.307 9.9fi = D Element close to 8eom Element close to 8eam Element close to 8eam 3600 turn on one leg 3600 turn on one leg 3600 turn on one leg

lli~ =E large leap/ Jump large leap/ Jump large leap/Jump

#8.405 I Gymnastics "8" I Gymnastics "8" I Gymnastics "8" *Minimum of " A" dismount Minimum of "8" dismount Minimum of "8" dismount

#B.406 ~~v=E flOOR: FLOOR: FLOOR: Gym series (3 elements, Gym series (3 elements, Gym series (3 elements,

I minimum "8") 1 minimum "8") I minimum "8") Mixed series (3 elements- Mixed series (3 elements- Mixed series (3 elements-

AGA or GAG) AGA or GAG) AGA or GAG) 2 Aero series 2 Aero series 2 Aero series I Aero series with 2 saltos Aero series with 2 saltos Aero series with 2 saltos 3 different saltos 3 different saltos 3 different saltos *Minimum of " A" dismount Minimum of "B" dismount Minimum of "B" dismount

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

1" .:...

"

Calendar

Date Days Dis(ipline Event Lo(ation Con tad Phone

A UGUST 4 4 W U.S. Classic Nationals Palm Springs, CA Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 6 1 MWR Safety Certification (5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.) Longview, WA Leigh Eaton 206-578-2042 12 2 MWR A5EP Coaching Principles (Fri.: 6-9 p.m., Sol.: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Raleigh, NC Gymcarolino Gymnastics 919- 848-7988 12 1 MWR Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) Madison, AL Kelly Hughes 205-837-7395 13 1 MWR Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.) Sparks, NV Derrick Moellenbeck 702-355-7755 14 1 MWR Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.) Raleigh, NC Jean Davis 919-790-9400 14 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1 :00 p.m.) Knoxville, TN 8i1ly 80b Taylor 304-344-3279 16 8 M Age Group Devel. Camp Colorado Springs, CO Ron Galimore 317-237-5050 I 18 11 MW Commonwealth Games Victoria, B.C., CAN Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 0 20 1 MW Broadcast Hilton Challenge ABC Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 20 1 MWR Safety Certification (12:00 noon-3:30 p.m.) Maple Valley, WA Leigh Eaton 206-578-2048 A 21 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) Penfield, NY Sarah Jane Clifford 716-388-8686 47 24 1 MWR Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) Nashville, TN Amy Oler 317-237-5050 24 4 MWR National Congress Nashville, TN Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 24 4 MW Coca-Cola National Championships Nashville, TN John Kirchner 317-237-5050 24 1 MWR Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) NashVille, TN Amy Oler 317-237-5050 24 2 MWR ASEP Coaching Principles (W: 8:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m., Th: 2-5:00 p.m.) NashVille, TN Dave Moskovitz 317-237-5050 27 1 MW Broadcast Coca-Cola National Championships NBC Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 28 1 MWR ASEP Coaching Principles (9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) Nashville, TN Dave Moskovitz 317-237-5050 28 1 MW Broadcast Coca-Cola National Championships NBC Julie Bejin 317- 237-5050 28 1 MWR Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) Nashville, TN Amy Oler 317- 237-5050 29 6 MWR XII Olympic Congress Paris, FRA Becky Riti 317-237-5050

SEPTEM BER 10 2 MW Golden Sands Varna, BUL Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 11 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.) Burbank, CA Jeff Lulla 818-845-0700 11 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) North Canton, OH Bobbi Montanari 614-457-1279 11 1 MWR Safety Certification (8:30 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.) West Allis, WI Ralph Druecke 414-782-3430 16 3 M ODP Regional Evaluation Various Sites Ron Galimore 317-237-5050 16 1 MWR Safety Certification (5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.) Kirkland, WA Leigh Eaton 206-578-2043 20 5 MWR Pan Am Gymnastics Cup Monterrey, MEX Campbell/ Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 27 7 W T.O.P. Notional Testing TBA Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 29 2 MWR ASEP Coaching Principles (PDP IIHTh: 5-9 p.m., F: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.) Cincinnati, OH Vicki Hoggard 513-489-7575 30 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.) Cincinnati, OH Vicki Haggard 513-489-7575 30 1 MWR ASEP Coaching Principles (9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) Cincinnati, OH Vicki Hoggard 513-489-7575 30 3 W Region V Mini-Congress Cincinnati, OH Vicki Haggard 513-489-7575

OCTOBER TBA 1 MWR ASEP Coaching Principles (time: TBA) Richmond, VA Lindo Johnson 410- 721-5853 2 15 MW Asian Games Hiroshima, JPN Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 2 1 MWR Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Cherry Hill, NJ Cathy Finkel 201-586-1808 2 1 MWR Safety Certification (11 :00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) New York City, NY Joan Hicks 203-924-8666 6 4 R Rhythmic World Championships Paris, FRA Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 14 3 M ODP Notional Evaluation & JR Team Selection Colorado Springs, CO Ron Galimore 317- 237-5050 15 2 W NationsBank World Gymnastics Team Trials Richmond, VA John Kirchner 317-237-5050 23 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.) Augusto, GA Mike Goodale 706- 738-6678 27 4 MWR Region VI Congress 8oxboro, MA Kathy Feldmann 617-784-5830 27 1 MWR Safety Certification (6:30 p.m.- 1 0:00 p.m.) Boxboro, MA Kathy Feldmann 617- 784-5830 28 3 MWR USA Gymnaestrada Palm Springs, CA Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 28 1 MWR Safety Certification (8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon) Boxboro, MA Kathy Feldmann 617-784-5830 *29 1 W Broadcast NationsBank World Gymnastics Team Trials ESPN Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 30 1 MWR Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.) Cincinnati, OH Vicki Hoggard 513-489-7575

NOVEMBER 9 4 Olympic Congress of the USA Nashville, TN Becky Riti 317-237-5050 11 10 MW Team World Championships Dortmund, GER Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 TBA MW Chunichi Cup Nagoya City, JPN Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 TBA W Catania Catania, ITA Kathy Kelly 317- 237-5050

DECEMBER *1 4 W T.O.P. Training Camp Tulsa, OK Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 4 9 M ODP Jr. National Team Camp Colorado Springs, CO Ron Galimore 317- 237-5050 15 7 MW Pacific Alliance Championships Auckland, NZL Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050 TBA MW DTB Pokal Stuttgart, GER Galimore/ Kelly 317-237-5050

*tentative

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Non-profit Organization U.s. Postage

PAID Permit No. 7867 Indianapolis, IN

~ SAFETY CERTIFICATION COURSES AUGUST 12 Madison, AL

10:00 am-3:00 pm Southern States Gymnastics, 1 06A Costle Dr., 35758 Course Oir.: Ricky Garcia (205) 970--0496 Local Contact: Kelly Hughes (205) 837-7395

13 Sparks, NV 1 :00 pm-5:00 pm Gymnastics Nevada, 225 lillard, 89434 Course Oir.: Derrick Moellenbeck (702) 355-7755

14 Raleigh, NC 10:00 am-3:00 pm North Raleigh Gymnasitcs, 7221 Becky Circle, 27615 Course Oir.: Oonold Davis (919) 834-9380 Local Contact: Jean Oovis (919) 790-9400 Knoxville, TN 9:00 am-l :00 pm Knoxville Gymnastics Center, 5331 Western Ave., 37921 Course Oir.: Billy Bob Taylor (304) 344-3279 Local Contact: liso Collins (615) 588-2105

20 Maple Volley, WA 12:00 noon-3:30 pm Summit Artistic Gymnastics Academy, 23150 224th PI.SE, 98038 Course Oir.: Leigh Eoton (206) 578-2043 Local Contact: Debbie Israel (206) 432-9999

21 Penfield, NY 9:00 am-3:00 pm The Gymnastics Training Center 01 Rochester Inc. 2051 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd., 14526 Course Oir. : Sorah Jane Clifford (716) 388-8686

24 Nashville, TN 1 :00 pm-5:30 pm 1994 USA Gymnastics Congress Local Contact: Amy Oler (317) 237-5050

28 Nashville, TN 1 :00 pm- 5:30 pm 1994 USA Gymnostics Congress Local Contact: Amy Oler (317) 237-5050

SEPTEMBER 9 Conwoy, AR

2:00pm-6:00pm Sonshine Academy, 803 Horkrider, 72032 Course Oir.: Scott Wright (501) 327-7742 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Arkonsas State Coaches Meeting.

11 Burbank, CA 9:00 am-l :00 pm Fun & Fit Gymnastics Center, 1919 W. Burbank Blvd., 91506 Course Oir.: Jeff Lulla (818) 845-0700 New Martinsville, WV 10:00 om-2:00 pm AII ·Voiley School 01 Dance, 233 Moin Sf., 26155 Course Oir.: Billy Bob Taylor (304) 344-3279 Local Contact: Dawn Crooks (304) 455-1627 ,- - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - --

Participation Registration Form Name: Mr./Mrs./Ms. __________________ _

Soc. Sec. # ______________________ _

Address: ______________ ________ _

City: _______ _____ S, tate: _ _ __ Zip ____ _

Telephone: (H) ________ (W) ________ _

Course Director: ____________________ _

Course Location: ___ ___________ Date: ____ _

Organization Represented: _____________ ___ _

If USA Gymnastics Member, List Type and Number _______ _

Form of Payment: o Check o Visa o Mastercard

North Canton, OH 9:00 am-12:30 pm Gymnastics 01 Ohio, 7241 Whipple Ave., 44720 Course Oir.: Bobbi Montanari (614) 457-1279 Local Contoct: Luke Price (614) 499-5572 West Allis, WI 8:30 am-l :00 pm Swiss Turners, 2214 S. 11 6th St., 53227 Course Oir.: Ralph Oruecke (414) 782-3430 State College, PA 10:00 am-2:00 pm Nittany Gymnastics & Dance, Inc., 2300 Commercial 8Ivd., 16801 Course Oir.: Michael Rizzuto (814) 238-8995

16 Kirkland, WA 5:00 pm-8:30 pm Northwest Aerials, 12440 128th Ln NE, 98034 Course Oir.: Leigh Eaton (206) 578-2043 Local Contoct: Patti Lantermann (206) 823-2665

18 Williomsburg, VA 9:30 am-l :30 pm Best Western Patrick Henry Resort and Coni. Center Corner 01 York & Page Streets, 23185 Course Oir.: Michael Rizzuto (814) 238-8995 Local Contact: Steve Garman (703) 698- 9163

Please make checks:~ab:J infull to USA Gymnastics Safety J

Certification l Mail Registration Form and 1

Payment to: USA Gymnastics 1 Safety, Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol, India­napolis,~ 46225 1 - ______ 1

DO NOT WRITE BELOW )1

THIS LINE • FOR

I OFFICE USE ONLY

Registration Form Received:

----------------1 Name on Card: Confirmation Mailed: 1

Numb., J I

~Pimb= Thre ___ Si~'rure_________ _ _~ ___ J

30 Cincinnoti, OH 9:00 am-l :00 pm Eastgate Holiday Inn, 4501 Eastgate Blvd., 45245 Course Oir.: TBA Local Contact: Vicki Haggard (513) 489-7575 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region V Mini·Congress.

OCTOBER Richmond, VA Time: TBA Course Oir.: Billy 80b Taylor (304) 344-3279 Local Contoct: linda Johnson (410) 721 - 5853 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VII Mini·Congress.

2 Cherry Hill, NJ 10:00 am-4:00 pm Course Oir.: Cathy Finkel (201) 586- 1808

23 Augusta, GA 9:00 am-l :00 pm Augusta YWCA Course Oir.: Mike Goodole (706) 738-6678

27 80xboro, MA 6:30 pm-l 0:00 pm Region VI Congress, Host Hotel, 80xboro, MA Course Oir.: Kathy Feldman (617) 784-5830 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VI Congress.

28 80xboro, MA 8:30 am-12:00 noon Region VI Congress, Host Hotel, Boxboro, MA Course Oir.: Kathy Feldman (617) 784-5830 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VI Congress.

30 livingston, NJ 9:30 am-4:00 pm Maplewood Gymnastics 01 livingston, 355 Eisenhower Pkwy., 07039 Course Oir. : Cathy Finkel (201) 586-1808

All courses are 3rd Cycle courses.

All materials (including the new Safety Handbook) for 3rd Cycle courses are provided at the cow'se and are part of the course fee.

Certification is good for 4 years.

The course/examination is $100 USA Gymnastics Professional Members and recertification is $75. Retestcost is $25. For groups of at least 10, contact the USA Gymnastics Department of Edu­ca tional Services and Safety.