technique magazine - march 1996

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF USA GYMNASTICS

Current URL: I http://www .usa-gy mnastics .org/usag/

Inside

March 1996 Vol. 16, #3

Coaching Challenge

~c \

£I Low Back Pain In ~ Rhythmic Gymnasts

Jump Training Improves Vertical Leap And Reaction Time In Rhythmic Gymnasts

USA Gymnastics Announces World Wide Web Site

1996 Congress

"What My Parents Did Right"

Boston Sightseeing Tours

Anxiety In Elite Young Gymnasts: Part I -Definitions Of Stress And Relaxation

TOPs Report

Biomechanical Factors That Effect Equilibrium During Pe7formance

Ir.,;& GYMNASTICS

T396

USA GYMNASTICS

'--I_I_HL_ET_E_'S_C_OO_K_BO_O_K-----JII '--_N_EW_V_ID_E_Ot_I_PE_S----' USA Gymnastics and editor Michelle Dusserre, R.D., have

recently completed a book entitled, A thlete's Cookbook, published by Masters Press. This book has excellent information on m eeting basic nutritional guidelines for athletes, understanding your nutritional needs, getting proper nutrition on the road, learning about and dealing w ith eating d isorders, preparing great-tasting recipes and much, much more.

#2377 $16.95

#2375 $16.95

1995 National GymFest, Carmel, Indiana - (1:23) Footage of all individual group performances, plus the USA Rhythmic Group National Team, footage of practices, and the rehearsal for the Finale. This tape includes two music videos.

1995 Rhythmic Challenge - (2:00) This competition also served as the Pan American Games Trials. See Pan Am medalists Jessica Davis and Tamara Levinson as they prepared for the Games. Also see National Team members challenging to improve their 1995 ranking. The chapters include:

N utrition Basics For Backflips

Building a Pyramid to Nutrition Success

Road Trip N utrition

How To Win While Losing

Recipe categories are:

Breakfas t: Great Ways to Start Your Day

Side Dishes: The Supporting Cast

Pas tas, Pizza and More

Meat and Poultry: Protein Perfection

Desserts: The Perfect Dismount

This book is available through the USA Gymnastics Locker room.

#3647 514.95

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#2376 $16.95

#2456 $16.95

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1995 Junior Olympic Group Championships - (2:00) This second annual event was held in San Francisco, CA. The video includes Round 2 of Day 1 and Day 2 Finals competition. Catch the excitement of rhythmic gymnastics group action in its developmental s tage.

"A Day in the Gym" Video Series - Tape #1- (2:00) Level 6 off-season workout. Arizona Sunrays, Phoenix, AZ.

1995 U.S. National Championships - Men's Team 2000 Competition - (2:00) Features: All competitors. Hand-held footage from the stands. Blurry and choppy in places.

1995 U.S. National Championships - Men's Competition (2:00) - three tapes Tape 1: Compulsory Competition - (2:00) All competitors. Hand-held foo tage from the s tands. Blurry and choppy in places. (2:00)

Tape 2: Optional Competition -Tape 3: Optional Competition and Event Finals (2:00)

1995 IBM Atlanta Gymnastics Invitational -Men's Competition (1:30) These are the " technical" videotapes. See top international performers in this " test-event" for the 1996 Olympic Games.

1995 IBM Atlanta Gymnastics Invitational -Women's Competition (1:30) These are the " technical" videotapes. See top international performers in this " test-event" for the 1996 Olympic Games.

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

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publisher Kathy Scanlan Editor Steve Whi tlock Designer Cindy L. Reed Men's Program Director Ron Galimore Women /s Program Director Kathy Kelly Rhythmic Program Director Nora Campbell

USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: landy Knapp; Pres ident: Kalhy lcanlan; President Emeritus: Mike Donahue; Amateur Athletic Union: Mike Itonner; American Sokol Organization: Jerry Milan; USA Trampoline & Tumbling: Wayne Downing; American Turners: Belly Heppner; Jewish Community Centers: Lori Katz; Collegiate Gymnastics Association: fA Roy Johnson; National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches for Women: Goil Oavis; Not ional Association for Girls and Women in Sport: Or. Mimi Murray; National Association of Women' 5 Gymnastics Judges: Yvonne Hodge; National Collegiate Athletic Associa tion: Chril Voelz, Lou Burkel; Notional federation of State High Schaal Associations: Susan True; National Gymnastics Judges Association: Hcrry Bjerke; National High Schaal Gymnastics Coaches Association: John Brinkworth; Special Olympics, Inc.: Kale FoberHickie; U.S. Rhythmic Gymnastics Coaches Association: Suzie DiTullio; U_S_ Association of Independent Gym Clubs: Lonce Crowley; u.s. Elite Coaches Association for Men's Gymnastics: Peler Kormann; U.S. Elite Coaches Assaciation for Women's Gymnastics: Tony Gehman, Roe Kreulzer; U.S. Men's Gymnas· tics Coaches Association: Marc Yancey; U.S. Sports Auobatics ~ ~deration : Bonnie Dovidson; Young Men's Christian Assoda-

I of the USA: Rick Dodson; USA Gymnastics National .. embership Directors: Men's: Jim HolI, Ray Gum; Women' 5:

Julia Thompson·Arelz, Mark Weber; Rhythmic: Alia Ivirsky, Ute AItCarberry Athlete's Advisory Committee: Karyn Lyon Glover, choir; Chril Violler, vice chair; Tanya lervice Choplin, lec; Wendy Hilliard, Karyn Lyon Glover, PelerVidmar, ConrodVoarsonger, Krilten Kenoyer Woodland, Kim Zmeskal; USOC Athlete Representative: Michelle DUllerre-Farrel!.

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chair: londy Knopp; Special Advisor to the Chairman of the Board: Roe Kreutzer; President: Kolhy lconlon; Secretary: Mike Milidonil; Vice Chair Women: lIaney Marlholl; Vice Chair Men: Tim Daggett; Vice Chair Rhy thmic: Candace Feinberg; fi G Women's Technical Committee: Jockie Fie; fiG Rhythmic Technical Committee: Andrea Schmid-Ihopiro; fiG Men's Technical Committee: Bill Roetzheim; At Large Members: Jim Harlung, Joon Moore-Gnat; Athlete Directors: Tanya lervice Choplin, Karyn Lyon Glover, Peter Vidmar; USOC Athlete Representative: Michelle Dusserre·Forrell; President Emeritus: Mike Donahue.

Unlesl exprellly idenlified to Ihe controry, all ortides, stotemenllond views prinled herein are attribuled ,olely 10 Ihe oUlhor ond USA GymnOlli" exprelles no opinion ond ollumes no relponsibilily Ihereof.

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Contents Coaching Cooching Challenge Lol'I Back Pain In Rhythmic Gymnasts Ansl'lers To Questions In The Coaching Challenge Jump Training Improves Vertical Leap And Reaction Time In Rhythmic Gymnosts

Telecommunications USA Gymnastics Announces World Wide Web Site

1996 Congress 1996 Congress & Olympic Trials 1996 Olympic Trials Schedule 1996 Pre-Registration Form 1996 Congress Add-Ons Registration Form

Parent Session "What My Parents Did Right" USA Gymnostics Session For Parents - Pre-Registration Form

USA Gymnastics Congress 8oston Sightseeing Tours Tour Registration Form

Sport Psychology Anxiety In Elite Young Gymnasts: Part 1- Definitions Of Stress And Relaxation Table I - Definitions Of Stress And Relaxation Among Young Gymnasts

Women's Gymnastics TOPS Report

Announcements Major Gymnastics Spectacular GYM - 96 Pommel Horse Rule U.s_ [/assic And National Gym Festival Are Combined

Sport Science 8iomechanical Factors That Effect EqUilibrium During Performance

Men's Judging Competitive And Judging Trends: Rings

Preschool Placing Children In Ability Appropriate Groups

Kinder Accreditation for Teachers KAT Questions And Ansl'lers Levell KAT Observation Form Levell KAT Workshops - Current Schedule KAT Registration Form

Men's Gymnastics 1991-2000 Junior Olympic National Program Coaches Workshop

Women's Minutes Elite Program Commiffee

Rhythmic Minutes Rhythmic Program Commiffee

4 5 1

8

12 13 15 11

18 19

20 21

22 24

26

21 21 21 21

29

32

35

36 31 38 38

42

43

45

I o A 4

Coaching

COACHING CHALLENGE

Wm A. Sands, Ph.D.

Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Utah

Try answering the following questions, then compare your knowledge with the correct answers are on page 7.

1. (T-F) Athletes can recruit all of the motor units of a muscle in an "all-out" contraction.

2. In a "punch" type of take-off for a somersault, which of the following is most predictive of performance?

A. maximal leg isometric strength

B. maximal force development

C. rate of force development

D. none of these

3. (T-F) All muscular hypertrophy is basically the same.

Lactic acid is a metabolic poison. 4.

5.

6.

(T-F)

(T-F) The earlier that a female athlete starts training (i.e., childhood) the less the bone mineral content of the skeleton.

(T - F) Because water has no calories, it is not considered a nutrient.

7. (T-F) The family doctor has been shown to be as effective as a back specialist in the treatment of back pain.

8. What is the first thing to happen to an athlete's performance following a sudden increase in training load in the direction of the overall training goals?

A. the athlete's performance gets worse

B. the athlete's performance improves

C. the athlete's performance stays the same

9. At what percentage of a maximal contraction do athletes achieve stimulation of fast twitch motor units?

A. approximately 70% of maximum

B. approximately 90% of maximum

C. approximately 30% of maximum

D. approximately 50% of maximum

10. How long should a macrocycle be? In other words, how long can an athlete continue to build to a competition period before requiring a transition (active rest) period?

A. 4-5 weeks

B. 10-12 weeks

C. 18-22 weeks

D. 45-50 weeks

11. Which vitamin is most closely linked to the body's production of energy?

A. A B. B

C. E 12. (T -F) Static and PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular fa-

cilitation) types of stretching are not the only types of stretching that athletes should use.

13. If the athlete can perform a layout somersault from feet to feet with arms overhead throughout the somersault, now far can hel she somersault by tucking?

A. 1.5 somersaults

B. 2.5 somersaults

C. 2.0 somersaults

D. 3.0 somersaults

14. What is the maximum amount of time you should go without changing the volume or intensity of the training load?

A. 4-6 weeks

B. 1-2 weeks

C. 1-2 weeks

D. 2-4 weeks

15. Which of the following is LEAST effective in producing maximal strength and power among elite athletes?

A. circuit training

B. traditional weight training

C. Plyometric training

16. (T -F) PNF stretching teclmiques result in less relaxation in the muscle to be stretched.

17. (T - F) A gymnast or diver should use carbohydrate loading (or simply augmentation) to enhance performance.

18. An athlete who demonstrates an increase in resting heart rate and a decrease in scale weight is showing which of the following?

A. competition preparedness

B. supercompensation

C. recovery

D. overtraining

19. How long before a contest should you cease doing strength training?

A. Between 7-14 days before the competition

B. You should never stop strength training

C. No more than 5-6 days before the competition

D. A minimum of 6 weeks before the competition

20. How many maximum strength workouts per week are required to maintain an already achieved strength level?

A. 1

B. 2-3

C. 4-6

D. 3-4

March 1996 TECHNIQUE

Answer Form Coaching Challenge

1 . [T) [F)

2 . [T) [F)

3. [a) [b) [c) [d)

4 . [a) [b) [c)

5 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

6 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

7 . [T) [F)

8 . [a) [b) [c)

9 . [T) [F)

10 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

11 . [ a ) [b) [c)

12 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

13 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

14 . [a) [b) [c) [d)

15 . [T) [F)

16 . [T) [F)

17 . [T) [F)

( 18 . [ a ) [b) [c) [d)

19 . [T) [F]

20 . [T) [F)

The answers are found on page 7.

Coaching

Low BACK PAIN IN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTS

Mark R. Hutchinson M.D.

The University of Illinois at Chicago T hi"umm,'Y d",u"" th, ,"use" p,esent'tion, p"ven-tion, and treatment of low back pain with special regard to rhythmic gymnastics. Most low back complaints are related to overuse and are associated with hyperexten-

sion. Poor flexibility at the hip may predispose the athlete to sustaining low back injuries as a result of an increased mobility demand in the lumbar spine.

Gymnasts frequently complain about achy low back pain of insidious onset and without numbness or weakness in their ex-tremities. Certain moves and positions, particularly, hyperexten-sion exacerbate their complaints. Diagnosis is made through a careful physical examination, radiographic studies, and occa-sional special studies such as a bone scan. The actual diagnosis could include any of a number of problems including muscle strains, bone stress reactions, bone frac tures, and ruptured discs.

Treatment is generally conservative with a reduction in activity and exacerbating stresses and occasional use of braces for immo-bilization. Most gymnasts can return to full activities within a few weeks depending on the diagnosis. Prevention is most important as it reduces lost time due to injury from the sport completely. Conditioning of abdominal and back muscles is important. Proper technique and adequate flexibility is also necessary. Good nutri-tion can avoid bone weakness leading to osteoporosis .


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I 0 A 5

1995 Budgetln'Vitationai (uS~/UKR) Women's Training Footage you can't see on TV! This 2 hour video offers an up-close look at top level athletes as they train for international competition. Features all competitors from the USA and Ukraine teams, including: Amy Chow, Dominique Dawes, Alexis Brion, Jamie Dantzscher, Gail Kachuro (USA), Anna Mirgordskaya, Oksana Knizhnik, Svetlana Zelepoukina (UKR). A fantastic tape for serious gymnastics enthusiasts! #2430 .... . $14.95 Women's CDmpetition Includes BONUS Music Video!! This 1 hour and 15 minute video shows every routine from this international competition. Features all competitors from the USA and Ukraine teams, including: Amy Chow, Dominique Dawes, Alexis Brion, Jamie Dantmher, Gail Kachura (USA), Anna Mirgordskaya, Oksana Knizhnik, Svetlana Zelepoukina (UKR). # 2431 ... .. $14.95

1995 COl:a-Cola National ChaHlpionships Women's Training Tapes 1 & 2 Footage you can't see on TV! Includes BONUS Music Video!! This 4 hour and 25 minute video offers an up-close look at top junior and senior elite gymnasts as they train for a spot on the U.S. National Team! Features athletes from the USA, including:

Dominique Dawes, Shannon Miller, Jaycie Phelps, Dominique Moceanu, Mina Kim, Vanessa Atler, Alexis Brion, Jamie Danfzscher, Kame Dysan ... and many, many more! A must-have video! #2451 .. . . . $24.95

1995 Jr. National Testing Oakland, Calif. Routines, Elements & Training Camp. (1 : 12) # 2470 . . ... $10.00

1995-91 W oHlen' s le'Vel10 Judges Training Video and text of deductions for level 1 0 VT, UB, BB & FX. Routines are shown first in real time, then in slow motion and freeze frame to illustrate deductions. #2453 .. .. . $19.95

RHYTHMIC 1995 RSG Jr. Olympic Championships. LevelS 2 tapes (2:40) # 2371 ..... $19.95 Level 7 2 tapes (2:40) # 2372 ..... $19.95

1995 RSG Senior National ChaHlpionships. Jacksonville, Fla. Sr. Prelims & All-Around. Camcorder footage taken from the stands. 3 tapes (4: 15) # 2373 . . . $24.95

r--------------------------------------, To order any USA Gymnastics merchandise presented in this issue, please complete this order form.

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1995 RSG Junior National ChaHlpionships. Jacksonville,Fla. Jr. Prelims & All-Around. Camcorder footage taken from the stands. 2 tapes (3: 15) # 2374 .. $19.95

MEN'S 1995 ~Hlerican Cup Seattle, Wash. Prelims & Finals. #2246 . .. .. $19.95

1995 Winter Cup Challenge Three SlP format tapes featuring EVERY routine, compulsories and optionals, all divisions! Features all competitors including: John Roethlisberger, Chainey Umphrey, Chris Waller, Jair lynch, Trent Dimas, Josh Stein, Brian Yee and many more! Camcorder footage taken from the stands. # 2245 ..... $19.95

1995 Pan ~DJerican Games Straight from Mar Del Plata, Argentina: Men's Preliminaries and finals. See the U.S. men's team triumph! Camcorder footage taken from the stands. # 2247 ..... $19.95

1995 C. ONGRESS SESSIONS Catch the lectures of the year! Don't miss seeing these captivating talks by the nation's top coaches and gymnastics professionals. More education~ than Mardi Gras!

Mary Lee T ra«:ey: Athlete and Staff Motivation (1 hour) #2432 ..... $12.95 Ste~e Nunno: Planning To Win (1 hour) #2433 . . ... $12.95

Bela Karolyi: Secrets of Successful Coaching (1 hour) # 2446 .... . $12.95 Peter Vidmar: Dedication and Go~s (1 hour)

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Muriel Grossfeld, Tammy Biggs & Roe Kreutzer: Developing Elites (1 hour) # 2447 ..... $12.95 DouLle Features Tammy Biggs & Vladimir ~rlemo~: Body Alignment

and Tony Gehman: Conditioning fur Women's Gymnastics (2 hours) #2439 ...... . $19.95

Mike West: Spoiling Basic Tumbling

and Sle~e Nunno: Tumble-Trak Drills (2 hours) #2448 ..... $19.95 Tom Lenzini: So, Coaches, You Think You Want To Own Your Own Gym?

and Jeff Lulla: Developing Effective Advertising and Public Relations Plans (2: 15 @ SlP Speed) # 2441 . .... $19.95 Triple Special VladiInir ~rlemo~: The Imporlance of nexibilily and Conditioning for FX and BB in Relation to Skill Performance

and Bryon Hough: Basic Uneven Bar Progressions and Drills

and Darla Franz: Balance Beam Progressions and Drills (3: 15 @ SlP Speed) # 2449 .. $24.95

Coaching

Answers to Questions in the Coaching Challenge (from page 4)

1. T Studies of muscle fatigue using massive electrical stimu-lation have sought to determine if a highly trained and highly motivated athlete can enlist all of his or her muscles in maximal voluntary contraction. Although only a few muscles have been investigated, it appears that highly motivated and highly trained athletes can recruit the entire muscle in some muscles and the vast majority of the muscle in some other selected muscles. The idea everyone has a certain inhibition that prevents total recruitment of the muscle appears to be largely false. It must be emphasized that this research is new and that highly trained and highly motivated athletes were required to get maximal muscle recruitment. This speaks loudly to the idea of training athletes intensively to prepare them for such efforts.

2. C There are tw o types of stre tch-shortening types of jumps, one that lasts under 250 milliseconds (about 1/4 of a second) and one that las ts longer than 250 milliseconds are typical of running platform take offs and gymnastics tumbling skills. In "punch" types of jumps, such as these, the primary determinant of performan ce is rate of force development, not maximal strength. Interestingly however, maximal strength must be developed first and then focused to rate of force development.

3. F Muscular hypertrophy occurs in two basic types: a) myofibrillar and b) sarcoplasmic. These terms indicate that the muscle cell, and therefore the m uscle, enlarges by virtue of the force generating machinery (myofibrillar) or the gunk that fills the res t of the cell (sarcoplasmic). Sarcoplasmic hypertrophy is typical of bodybuilding types of training programs and causes the muscle cell to get larger w ithout augmenting the force capabilities of the muscle cell. Myofibrillar hypertrophy refers to increasing the contractile proteins of the cell, and thus increasing the more" functional" components of maximum force production. The gymnast and diver prefer myofibrillar hypertrophy due to its greater relevance to gymnastics and diving performance. Sarcoplasmic hypertrophy tends to increase muscle size and weight w ithout increasin g force capabilities to the same extent.

4. F Lactic acid is the by product or outcome of the glycoly tic energy system pathway (anaerobic). Lactic acid or lactate is formed when pyruvate accumulates an d the Kreb's cycle (aerobic) cannot process the pyruvate fas t enough. As lacta te concentrations rise the acidity of the muscle increases and this is w ha t results in the feelings of pain and inability to continue muscular force. The fa te of lactate is not entirely know n, some of it ends up being concerted back into glycogen, and some of it is oxidized (i. e., burned for energy). However, lactate is not a poison, actually it is a substra te - it can be returned to glycogen (sugar) or it can be consumed fo r energy. Moreover, lac tate is NOT resp onsible for delayed onset m uscle soreness. The muscle tissue is damaged in inten se exercise and th is results in pain and inflammation. The half-life of A TP removal from muscle is approximately 25 minutes.

5. F A Fi!U1ish study recently showed tha t the earlier an a thlete began strenuou s training the greater the none mineral

content of the skeleton. The study specifically investigated telmis and squash players. Interestingly, those a thletes who started playing before menarche had two to four times more bone mineral content than those starting training at age 15 years or later.

6. F Bodies are about 2/3 water which requires constant replacement each day because of losses through urine, feces, skin, and lungs. Athletes w ho are dehydrated suffer significant performance impairment.

7. T A recent study in the New EngLand Journal of Medicine shows that patients were m ore satisfied w ith chiropractors and back specialists because they spent more time explaining their injury. However, the s tudy showed that 96% of the patients were cured w ithin six months-regardless of w ho they saw for treatment.

S. A The first thing to happen to an athlete upon receiving a new training demand is to fatigue and thus reduce performance capability. This is followed by recovery, an d if the training lo a d is of the prop er m agn i tu de, th en supercompensation w ill result.

9. C Type II or fas t twitch motor unites are being stimulated when the maximal voluntary contraction reaches only approximately 30%. An athlete does not have to w ork w ith maximum or near maximum resistance to recruit fast tw itch motor units.

10. C Athletes tend to build to peak performance in l S-22 weeks, after w hich they require a brief rest before beginning another macrocycle.

11.B B vi tamins are especially imp ortant for athletes.

12. T Ballistic stretching is also a viable and useful form of stretching. Although historically this type of s tretching has been considered bad, the new thought is that this type of stre tching is beneficial. This is based on the idea that many athletic movements involved dynamically and quickly moving to full ranges of motion. In gymnastics and diving this actually happens fai rly frequently. However, ballis tic stretching should probably be renamed dynamic stre tching. Although a type of "bouncing" occurs, the bouncing is gentle and is used to improve dynamic rather than s tatic range of motion . Dynamic stretching can be used during arm and leg swings to the full range of motion, but only following a very thorough warm up. Moreover, the athlete should probably have acquired most of the functional range of motion w ith static stretching techniques prior to using dynamic s tretching.

13. B Assuming the a thlete can do a layout somersault from fee t to fee t, then the athlete has enough angular momentum to somersault approximately 2.5 times simply by tucking.

14. B Training load volume or intensity should be modified at least every 1-2 weeks to ensure perfo rmance improvement. Longer than this results in blunted training effects. Shorter than this results in unstable performances and lack of a sufficient accumulation of training load to tax cumulative adaptive reserves of the athlete.

15. A Circuit training results in incomplete recovery between sets or exercise tasks. The incomplete recovery further results


tt

" .A 7

I

" A 8

Coaching

in decreased maximal efforts. The decreased maximal efforts, due to fatigue, makes circuit training good for training various aspects of muscular endurance, but not effective in developing maximal strength and power.

16. T PNF stretching has been investigated via EMG (elec-tromyography) and has shown that the stretching actually resulted in greater EMG activity not less which was originally thought be the case. This means that the muscle to be stretched is actually more highly activated rather than more highly relaxed due to PNF techniques. Clearly, PNF techniques are not well understood and require further research. This may also explain the mixed results often obtained when using PNF methods on gymnasts and divers.

17. T Glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrate in the body. There are limited stores of glycogen, approximately 300-400 grams in muscle and 70-100 grams in the liver. Studies have shown that both anaerobic and aerobic training can enhance and deplete stores of glycogen. Muscle glycogen is a more important storage source in high intensity short duration work than liver glycogen. High intensity intermittent exercise can deplete selective glycogen stores in fast and slow twitch muscle. Usually this results from hard training as opposed to competition. It appears that the optimal time for replenishment of glycogen is 1/2 hour to one hour following the exercise. The amount of carbohydrate to take during this time is 0.7 to 3.0 grams per kilogram of body mass.

18. D Decreasing weight, in conjunction with increasing rest-ing heart rate are classic symptoms of overtraining. The athlete's training load should be reduced and serious rest should be considered.

19. C Schmidtbleicher recommends that strength training not stop until 5-6 days before the competition. Stopping earlier than this will result in some detraining and thus reduction in strength and power. A short taper for recovery is important, 5-6 days is sufficient.

20. B The maximum strength levels of an athlete can be main-tained in 2-3 workouts per week. Some studies have shown that two workouts per week are also effective.

JUMP TRAINING IMPROVES VERTICAL LEAP AND REACTION TIME IN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTS

Mark R. Hutchinson M.D.

Linda Tremaine P.T.

The University of Illinois at Chicago

A n important component in artistic and rhythmic gymnastics is the ability to leap. Higher leaps and quicker reaction time for a series of quick leaps in succession correlates to improved performance and ideally im

proved scores.

Six elite rhythmic gymnasts who compete as a team underwent a course of jump training that involved Pilate's, a plyometric jumf table, as well as pool leaps and training. Baseline vertical leap height and reaction time was obtained prior to training on a force plate that calculated time on and off the plate. Hangtime could be correlated to vertical height, and time on the plate was associated with reaction time for a series of four leaps.

After undergoing training for one month, all athletes displayed significant improvement in vertical leap averaging nearly 20 percent increase in height. Indeed all athletes also showed a significant improvement in ground reaction time. Interestingly, after continuing the jump training over the next three months, no further increase in performance could be documented.

In conclusion, it would appear that focused jump training, using Pilate's plyometric table as well as pool jump training, is of significant benefit in elite rhythmic gymnasts.


Telecommunications

USA GYMNASTICS ANNOUNCES WORLD WIDE WEB SITE

Rachele Harless, Webmaster for USAGO

P reviously available solely as a custom forum on Delphi, USA Gymnastics Online (USA GO) has now been extended to include the service of a World Wide Web (WWW) site. The web site debuted in conjunction with

the 1996 McDonald's American Cup in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 29, 1996. Within one week of the site's debut, USA GO was already recognized with an award, being selected as one of Yahoo's "Picks of the Day" for March 6, 1996!

The WWW site address for USA Gymnastics Online is:

http : //www . usa -gymnastics . org/ usag /

The start-up goal of the web site is to provide information from a marketing perspective, with a heavy focus on materials produced by our public relations department. Currently, the site includes organizational information about USA Gymnastics, the history and description of our sport, athlete biographies, national team rosters, a calendar of upcoming events, and many other fea tures. In the near future, the site will include sponsor information, departmental information, merchandise, and other features geared specifically toward the registered members of USA Gymnastics . If you have suggestions for specific services we should consider providing, please contact us via the "Keep In Touch" pages on the web site.

[Top] [List of C'ompetitors] [Men's PrehmUl ru'les]

[\V0men's PrelmufI<llles] {Iv1en's and Y}J omen's Fma1s ]

Fact Sheet The 1996 A1cDonald's American Cup is the first

competition to bejeatured on USA Gymnastics Online!

DATES AND SITES

TI,e McDonald's Amellcan Cup iffrom Febmruy 29 - March 2, 1996 in the F oft WorthITarrant County Convention Center Arena in Folt WOIth, Texas.

FORMAT

TIle competition includes athletes from 23 countries for both men and women The competition is scored using compehtion II rules The preluninruy round for men will be held on

The site will be updated frequently and prove to be a definitive resource for keeping up-to-da te on current events in the world of

American gymnastics . We will provide detailed information about USA Gymnastics competitions and events, results, and competition highlights . Current standings and commentary from the 1996 McDonald's American Cup were updated on the web after each rotation during both preliminary and final sessions. Additionally, full score sheets, all related press releases, and international biographies for athletes in the competition were also readily available to anyone surfing the USA Gymnastics web site.

Visitors to the web site can enter drawings and contests for freebies, w ith wilU1ers chosen on a monthly basis. For the month of March, the 10 prizes were McDonald's American Cup t-shirts autographed by competing USA athletes . Ten winners will be chosen and profiled on the web site on April 10, 1996.

After a thorough search, USA Gymnastics selected Net Direct, an Internet provider service located in Indianapolis, Ind., to host the USA Gymnastics WWW site. Net Direct also hosts the WWW servers of the Indianapolis Star News and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

How do I get on the WWW? All this sounds innovative and exciting-so how do you get to

the site? This w ill vary depending on your Internet connection and your computer hardware configuration. Explaining each possible situation here is an impOSSible task. If you are on the Internet through a service provider specifically geared to the Internet and / or WWW, or through your university or office, then most likely you are already familiar with navigating the web. The web is accessible from most major online services, including Delphi (those using " the new Delphi"), AOL, Compuserve, and Prodigy. For most of these services, you must download additional software to use the web. Contact your provider for more information about getting on the WWW.

Browser, browser, anybody got a browser? So, what actually is a "browser?" Is it someone who browses

web sites in their free time? No, you can refer to those people as "surfers." A browser is the software that a surfer uses to read the WWW. Netscape is by far the chosen browser on the web today with 80% of web users; because it provides more flexibility and power, and can easily display tables and columns. The USA Gymnastics pages are enhanced for Netscape. However, our pages should be easily readable by any browser that you choose to use .

Common words Once you get connected to the WWW, you will s tart hearing


Telecommunications

words/ abbrevia tions that you've never heard before (e.g., "URL"), or perhaps hear familiar words out of their normal context (e.g .. "links") . Here's a simple guide:

Home Page A World Wide Web home page is the starting page of a com

pany or individual's area on the Web. Analogous to a title page of a document. In general use, people sometimes use the term Home Page to refer to all the pages within a specific area.

~ Inside USA The Sport of Gymnastics Gynumstics Depar1ments, Staff, History, Scoring, aJllI

Man;h J, 1996 Olympic Family, and ,Ippa.ratus Belarus' trio wins gold Sponsors. descriptions.

Boguinskaya (W) , Andrei Kall (1\1), and Eu"aenia. Pavlina (R)

(~ >~l team up to win the 1996 Events USA Athletes McDonald's Intematioual Upconung event

... ~ National team rosters,

Gymnastics Championships on calendar, Past event Athlete bios, and Tuesday night in Atlanta. pages, and Rl!sults. Medalis1s .

Man:" ~ 1996

(> r'l. Yahoo Pick of lb. Day! Past Spotlights ... r Keep in Touch

USA Gynmastics Online is listed E""ellts and other Send us feedback , and

as a Yalmo Pick of Ute Day for news previously enter our conkst for March 6, 1996! featw'ed Oil this page. (r .. bid.

HTML The language that is used to wri te WWW documents.

Link A link is usually presented to you as an underlined word or

phrase of different color (the default color is blue). If you click on that word, the browser displays the link. Graphics can also be links. The links on the USA Gymnastics Online pages are shades of red: bright red for most links, with a darker red for links that you have visited in the recent past.

~~ . ~ . : I • : ,1..,.., .

I .. : - ~

JOHN ROETHLISBERGER

1995 World Championships Team l\'lelnher 1995 National All-A.roWld Charnpion 1994 Team World Championships Tearn l\.'lember 1994 ''''arid Charnpiollships Team Member 1993 National All-AJUWld Champion 1992 OIl'"pian 1992 National All-AJUwld Charnpion

URL The electronic address of the web page. The address usually

b egins w ith '' htt p : // '' -for examp l e, '' htt p : //www . atlanta . olympic . org/" is the WWW address for the 1996 Olympic Games.

Webmaster The contact person for a website-believe itor not, "webmaster"

is actually the standard, accepted title! Online email addressed to the USA GO "webmaster" goes to Rachele Harless with a copy to USA Gymnastics (Steve Whitlock).

TIps for the experienced web surfer If you only need to visit a page for some quick information,

turn off your" Autoload images" option that is found in most browsers. The page w ill display much more quickly.

If you are an experienced WWW surfer, you may want to experiment with turning off " underlining" for your links. Set your default background to white. The page will be much easier to read .

If you visit a page often (as you surely will for the USA Gymnastics site!), you might want to click your browser's "reload" button after you load the page, if it doesn't look very current. Many browsers w ill save (" cache") the page after you hit it, and the next time you visit the page, the browser will display the cached page instead of retrieving the latest one from the site. You want to be sure that you are always looking at the latest copy of the page!

If you are loading a page, click the" s top" button before clicking on a link to jump to another page. Failing to do this can sometimes result in unintentionally "locking up" your computer.


\ ....

~ !"" Vi

~ U A. 12

1996 Congress ~-----------------

BOSTON MASSACHUSETTS

JUNE 28·30

THE FACTS

Host City: Boston, Mass. Congress Dates:

Pre-Congress Sessions· June 27

Congress Sessions . June 28-30

Post Congress Sessions . July 1

1996 U.S. Olympic Trials· June 25-30

Artistic Trials . June 27-30

RhythmiC Trials· June 25-26

CONGRESS RATES AND REGISTRATION DATES

$150.00 Pre-registration

$175.00 On-Site

No pre-registration after MAY 31. After MAY 31 , you must register onsite.

Non-Members $235.00

CONGRESS HOTELS

The Copley Connection is a joint venture of world class hotels and an outstanding shopping facility. The Westin Hotel Copley Place, the Boston Marriott Copley Place, and The Copley Place Shopping Galleries are all under one roof. For the 1996 USA Gymnastics Congress, these two hotels will be joined by the adjacent Copley Plaza to house Congress attendees. The Congress sessions will be conducted at the Hynes

rr~ GYMNASTICS

Convention Center that is connected directly to the Copley Place Shopping Galleries.

The Westin Hotel, Copley Place Boston

10 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Mass. 02116-5798

The contemporary Westin Hotel. Copley Place Boston is located in the city's charming and fashionable back bay, considered to be Boston's finest location. The hotel is linked via skybridge to the upscale. Copley Place Shopping Galleries, the new Prudential Center Fashion Court. and the Hynes Convention Center. Eight hundred newly renovated guestrooms and suites offer breathtaking views of Boston. Sample some of Boston's favorite restaurants within the Westin Hotel. Enjoy Turner Fisheries Bar & Restaurant, known for its outstanding fresh seafood and New England 's number one, award winning clam chowder.

Reservations: Central reservations: 800-228-3000' Direct reservations: 617-262-9600'

Cut-off date: May 31

Rates: $129 for single/double

Boston Marriott, Copley Place

110 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Mass. 021 16

At Copley Place, in the heart of Boston's Back Bay area, the Boston Marriott is linked to the Hyne' s

Convention Center. There is a convenient subway station located at Copley Place, connecting to AMTRAK and Logan International Airport. The Marriott features 1,147 guestrooms and suites, indoor pool. health club with exercise room, whirlpool, saunas, and game room. Hotel restaurants include Gourmeli's, an upscale family restaurant and Bello Mondo, featuring the finest in Northern Italian cuisine. For a great place to watch sports and enjoy the best burgers in Boston, try Champions, The American Sports Bar.

Reservations: 617-236-5800

Cut-off date: June 6

Rates: $125 for single/double, $10 for each additional person

The Copley Plaza, A Wyndham Hotel

138 St. James Avenue, Boston, Mass. 02116-507 1

The Copley Plaza, affectionately known as the "Grande Dame" of Boston is also located in the historic Back Bay. Recent restoration has returned this majestic hotel to its original grandeur. Fe?turing 373 beautifully appOinted guest rooms and suites furnished with period antiques, Concierge, Cristaldi's Beauty Salon, and an on-site fitness center. Enjoy gourmet New England fare at its finest in the sophisticated Plaza Dining Room or Copley's Restaurant for the best steak in town.

Reservations: 800-822-4200

Cut-off date: May 26

Rates: $149 for single/double

When making reservations, USA Gymnastics is listed in the hotel reservation systems as

"USA Gym Congress"

CONGRESS REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Congress Registration forms, Congress" Add-on" information and forms, and.,:'k,?"·,-~totive Congress Schedule ur-. "r ",,,led on pages 13, 15, 17 of this issue.


PRESENTATIONS The biggest and the best! Watch Technique for more specific information on the Congress schedule, presenters, and topics. Sessions will be conducted at the beautiful John B. Hyne 's Convention Center. The Hynes will provide a modern, elegant. highly flexible environment for the annual Congress. Sessions will feature informative speakers discussing club business, technique and sport science, preschool/developmental. judges training, and other areas of interest. Sessions will also include men's, women's, and rhythmic areas.

EXHIBITION HALL The Exhibit Hall. located in the Hyne' s Convention Center, wi ll provide Congress attendees with the opportunity to see the latest and the best in equipment; apparel. and services.

1996 U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS America's top gymnasts will be making magic June 25-30 during the 1996 U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials in Boston. This nationally televised competition wil l determine which gymnastics hopefuls are going to compete in Atlanta. It promises to be a week of drama, passion, and perfection. A week to remember and you can experience the excitement. All of it- live and in person. You'll want to attend and see, firsthand, some of the most important Artistic and Rhythmic competitions in a gymnast's life.

ARTISTIC TRIALS June 27-30

RHYTHMIC TRIALS June 25-26

For more information about ordering tickets, please call the Massachusetts Sports Partnership at 617-443-4909, Please do not call USA Gymnastics regarding Trials tickets.

The 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials-Gymnastics is offered

by USA Gymnastics and the

Massachusetts Sports Partnership.

1996 Congress

1996 CONGRESS AND U.S. OLYMPIC TRIALS SCHEDULE Note: The following schedule is tentative and subject to clwnge. This is offered to illustrate how these two exciting events will be coordinated. Future issues of Technique will include more specific information regarding Presenters, topics, Congress, add-on session s, and much more!

Times Congress Activities Times Competition Sessions

I TUESDAY, JUNE 25

I WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26 Allday

2:00-6:30 pm Evening

RSG Congress KAT Workshop # 1. Pt. 1 Congress Registration Desk open

I THURSDAY, JUNE 27 Allday

8:00 am-1 :00 pm 8:30 am-1 :30 pm 9:00 am-6:00 pm

10:00 am-7:00 pm 1 :00-3:00 pm 1 :00-5:00 pm 2:00-6:30 pm 1 :00-8:00 pm

6:00-10:00 pm

Congress "Add-on" sessions: RSG Congress Exhibition set-up (decorator 's) KAT Workshop #1. Pt. 2 PDP II : ASEP Sport Principles Registration Desk open PDP-I: Video Clinic and PDP I Granrlrv;,,>niiir·rr., Safety Course # 1 KAT Workshop #2, Pt. 1 Exhibition set-up (exhibitor 's) Rhythmic Judge Course - Level 5

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

7:00-9:30 pm

7:00-9:30 pm

7:00 am-7:00 pm 8:00-11 :00 am 8:15-9:15 am

9:30-10:30 am 11 :00 am-12 noon

12:00-6:00 pm 12:00-1 :15 pm 1 :30-2:30 pm 2:45-3:45 pm 3:00-7:00 pm 4:00-5:00 pm

Registration Desk open

Exhibition Hall set-up (exhibitor's) SAG Y M N AS TIC S Congress Sessions (Round #1)

6~~~;~~~ ~J~~~~,tS~~~I~~2) CONGRESS Exhibition Hall Open LUNCH BREAK 199 6 Congress Sessions (Round #3) B 0 S ton Mas s • J u n e 2 8 - 3 a Congress Sessions (Round #4) , . Level 6 RSG Judges course and Level 7/8 Congress Sessions (Round #5) 6:00-9:00 pm

I SATURDAY, JUNE 29 7:00-2:00 pm Registration Desk Open 8:00-9:00 am Congress Sessions (Round #6)

8:00-1 1 :30 am Level 5 Judges 9:00 am-3:OO pm Exhibition Hall Open

9: 15- 10: 15 am Congress Sessions (Round #7) 10:30- 11 :30 am Congress Sessions (Round #8)

11 :30 am- 12:45 pm L U N C H B REA K 12:45-1 :45 pm Congress Sessions (Round #9) 2:00-3:00 pm Congress Sessions (Round # 10) 4:00-6:30 pm

7:30 pm Doors open for Ceremony of Honors 7:45 pm Ceremony of Honors video presentation

8:00:9:30 pm Ceremony of Honors 9:00 pm Doors open to Banquet area

9: 15 pm-12:00 am USAG Annual Banquet

I SUNDAY, JUNE 30 8:30-11 :30 am Registration Desk Open

9:00 am-3:OO pm Exhibition Hall Open 9: 15 am Rhythmic Judges Certification tests (all levels)

9: 15-10: 15 am Congress Sessions (Round # 11) 10:30-11 :30 am Congress Sessions (Round # 12)

11 :30 am-1 :00 pm L U N C H B REA K 1 :00-2:00 pm Congress Sessions (Round #13) 2: 15-3: 15 pm Congress Sessions (Round #14) 3:30-4:30 pm Congress Sessions (Round #15) 3:00-9:00 pm Exhibitor tear-down 5:30-10:00 pm

I MONDAY, JULY 1 DEPARTURES ... 9:00 am-1 :00 pm 8:30 am-1 :30 pm 9:00 am- 12 noon

9:00-10:30 am 9:00-5:00 pm

Safety Course #2 KAT Workshop #2-Pt. 2 ,1'; •

PDP Level l Video Clinic Women' sState Evaluator Examination ~ Women' sState/Regional Chair Workshop


Rhythmic Trials Session #1

Rhythmic Trials Session #2

Men's Compulsories

Women's Compulsories

Men's Optionals

Women's Optionals (live TV)

call U. 1"..11

USA GYMNASTICS CONGRESS -Boslon , Moss .• June 28·30

1996 Congress

CONGRESS COSTS PROFESSIONAL

MEMBERS Preregistration: (postmarked by May 31, 1996) $150

On-site registration: $175

NON-MEMBERS $235

1 996 PRE-REGISTRATION FORM COMPLETE ONE CONGRESS FORM PER PERSON- YOU MAY PHOTOCOPY FORM FOR

ADDITIONAL CONGRESS REGISTRATIONS

Your Professional Address (listed in the USA Gymnastics Pro-member database) will be used for all correspondence.

Name ______________________________________________________ __

Social Security No. ________________________________________________ _

USAG Pro# ____________________________ _ Exp. Date __________ _

o Change my Pro-address to:

Mailing Address ________________________________________________ _

City __________________________ _ State __ _ Zip _____ _

Name of Club Program _______________________ _

Day Phone __________ _ Night Phone ____________ _

Minimum age for Congress registration is 16.

REGISTRATION IS

NON-REFUNDABLE AFTER

JUNE 14

NO PRE-REGISTRATION

AFTER

MAY31

AFTER MAY31 YOU MUST

REGISTER ON-SITE.

NO EXCEPTIONS

PAYMENT MAKE CHECK/MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO USA GYMNASTICS

Amount Enclosed LI $ _____ --'

Charge to: o Visa o Mastercard o Discover o American Express

Card No. _________________ _

Exp. Date _________________ _

Signature (required) ______________ _

liSA GYMNASTICS

T396

Please return this registration form to:

USA Gymnastics Congress Pan American Plaza, Suite 300

201 S. Capitol Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225

March 1996 TECHNIQ UE

CONGRESS COSTS

Fee includes:

One credential for entrance to Congress sessions and master clinics on Fr iday morn ing through Sunday afternoon.

Entrance to the Exhibit Hall featuring the industry's finest products.

One ticket to the Final Congress Banquet. (Additional Banquet tickets for spouses/guests are $50 each - available at registration).

The annual Ceremony of Honors.

TO ORDER TICKETS TO THE U_S_ OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS __ _

Please call the Massachusetts Sports

Partnership at: 617-443-4909

Please do not call USA Gymnastics regarding

Trials tickets.

MSP reports that ticket sales are very heavy,

order your tickets now!

Disl:o-ver the knowledge to produl:e happy and healthy athletes!

-

Fllr.",~ ~'n'''&1 .~ .. ' ~hl'.l

Coa£Les Guide to Nutrition and WeigLt Control 1990 • Eisenman· Paper • 192 pages. Good nutrition allows athletes to maintain energy levels during training and safely regulate their ratio of fat and lean weight A practical sports nutrition guide that translates the sciences of physiology, bio-chemistry, and nutrition into easily applied information. Includes on excellent chapter on the signs of eating disorders. #17 ...... . ..... . . . . . .. $22.00

Helping AtLietes witL Eating Disorders Thompson, R.A. and Sherman, R.T .• 1993 • Hard covel' • Human Kinetics • 194 pages. This book provides a practical, sensitive and therapeutic approach to treating athletes with eating disorders. This guide thoroughly examines all aspects of eating disorders in athletes, from diagnosis to education and pre

vention. A must-have book! #3631 .. $25.00

AtLiete's Coo"ooL: 1995 • Paper • Masters Press • 224 pages. Edited by Michelle Dussere, a nutritionist and J 984 Olympian, this clearly-wriHen guide offers complete nutritional

information and "insider" advice from world-class gymnasts. Shannon Miller, Dominique Dawes, Mary lou ReHon, and

r----------------------------------------------, To order any USA Gymnomts merchandise presented in thi< issue, please complete this order lorm.

USA GYMN)\.STlCS ORDER FORM tlAME ____________________________ _ PH ONE ___________ _

ADORESS _____________ _ ____________ _ ___ __ ____________ _

CITY STATE 11' __________ _

CLUB GYMHAIn(\ M!MBE" HIP # ______ _ _ _ _ __ ____ _ __ _ _______ _ _______ _

CIIllGE: 0 MmEiUtO 0 VISA UP. DAlE _______ _

UtO # ___________________ _ SIGHAllJIl __________________ _

ITEM ! DESCRIPTION QUANTITY PRICE TOTAL

S!NDORD!RS AND MAK! CHICKS PAYABI! 10: SUBTOTAL

USA GYMNASTICS lOCKER ROOM SHIPPING & HANDLING: Ct. ... 1B1 )...,!Jl«l®S4,SIi~ I·I~lOO

PO BOX 5S62, li,i)lGI·IIOOIOO!.I,t¥JIIOOD1LOOSI

INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46255-5562 1-80G-4-USA-GYM IN RESIDENTS ADD SOlo SALES TAX

USA TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE GYMNASTICS J99S

Bart Connor are among the many popular athletes who donated their favorite low-fat, energy-boosting, and to sly recipes. Dussere uses her knowledge to help gymnasts and others eat and perform like winners. #3647 . . ... . . . .. . . . . . .. $14.95

(qrnnasti£s: A Guide for Parents and AtLietes 1992· Paper· Feeney • 171 pages. An excellent book for beginners as well as experienced gymnasts.

Contains information to guide parents and athletes in choosing a gymnastics program that will best suit their needs. Provides pertinent information on safety, conditioning, and the guidelines of the sport #3612 . . .... . .... . . . .. . $15.00

Portrait of an AtLiete 1992· Paper· Durbin· 88 pages. This book emphasizes the ideals that make athletes successful in both sports and life. It features advice, motivation, and values that help young people understand what athletics can mean to their future. #3627 .. . . . .... . .... . . . . $8.95

The Inner AtLiete: Realizing your Fullest Potential 1994· Paper· Millman, D.· Slillpoint Publishing • 169 pages. Used worldwide by professional coaches and athletes to coordinale and develop active men and women's physical, mental, and emotional skills. It explains how to empower athletes to

achieve maximum capabilities-not only in sports, but in doily life. #3643..... . .... $11 .95

Sports and Stress Therapy: AtLleti£ ReLaLilitation on Massage, Stret£Ling and StrengtLening 1994· Hard Covel' • Shazryl, E. and Hanks, J .• Eskay Inc . • 130 pages. This book introduces a

new approach to the prevention and recuperation of fatigue and injuries. The techniques combine many ancient Asian traditions with western healing arts to provide instant relief of pain due to

overuse, acute, and chronic injury. #3644. . . .... .. . . . . . $19.95

In Pursuit of Euellen£e: How to Win in Sport and life tLrougL Mental Training 1990 • Paper· Orlick • 208 pages. Wrillen in on easy-to understand,m instructive style, this second edition of In Pursuit of Excellence is the supplemental text for courses that cover

the basic sport psychology techniques. It covers the psychological concepts of concentration, winning, losing, and competing successfully. This highly successful sport performance book by internationally recognized sport psychologist Terry Orlick, has undergone a complete revitalization. BeHer organized for easier reading, the second edition includes dozens of new examples token from Orlick's real-life experi

ences with champion athletes and their coach. #14 . . .. ...... . . ... . . . . $14.95

(

1996 Congress

, 996 CONGRESS ADD·ONS REGISTRATION FORM

COMPLETE ONE FORM PER PERSON-PLEASE PHOTOCOPY FORM FOR ADDITIONAL REGISTRATIONS

Your Professional Address (listed in the USA Gymnastics Pro-member database) will be used for all correspondence.

Name ____________________________________________________________ _

Social Security No. ______________________________________________________ _

USAG Pro# ____________ _ _ __ _ Exp. Date _____ _ _

o Change my Pro-address 10:

Mailing Address ________________________________________________________ _

City _____________ _ State ___ __ Zip ___________ _

Day Phone ___________________ _ Night Phone ________________________ _

Check (I ) appropriate:

Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18.

SAFETY CERTIFICATION COURSES: o Thursday. 6/27. 1 :00 pm-5:00 pm

o Monday. 7/1.9:00 am-1 :00 pm

Promember

$75

$75

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (PDP) Levell Grandparent Course o Thursday. 6/27. 1:00-3:00 pm $35

Criteria: USAG pro-membership. Safety Certification. and minimum of 4 years coaching/administrative experience. Experience Verification Form (see page 40).

Levell Video Clinics o Course #l - Thursday, 6/27, 1 :00-3:00 pm $10 o Course #2-Monday, 7/1,9:00 am-12 noon $10

USA Gymnastics/ ASEP Coaching Principles Course Note: Course enrollment is limited to 50. First come, first serve.

basis. You MUST pre-register- NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION o Thursday, 6/27, 9:00 am-6:00 pm $70

Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshops

Nonmember

$100

$100

N/A

$10 $10

$80

Note: Course enrollment is limited to 65. First come, first serve-NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION. o Course #l - Wednesday, 6/26, 2:00-6:30 pm; and Thursday, 6/27, 8:30 am-1 :30 pm o Course #2- Thursday, 6/27, 2:00-6:30 pm; and Monday, 7/1,8:30 am- 1 :30 pm

$140

Women's Program, Skill Evaluator Examination o Monday, 7/1, 9:00-10:30 am

RHYTHMIC JUDGING COURSES/EXAMS

o Level 5- Thursday, 6/27, 6:00 - 10:00 pm o LeveI6-Friday, 6/28, 3:00-7:00 pm o Level 7/8- Friday, 6/28,3:00-7:00 pm o Judging tests (ali levels)-Sunday, 6/30, 9:15- 11 :30 am

TOTAL PAYMENT

$9

$30 $50 $30 $5

MAKE CHECK/MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO USA GYMNASTICS

Amount Enclosed LI $ ____________ ---'1 Charge to: 0 Visa 0 Mastercard

$160

$15

o Discover

SubTOTAL

o Am. Ex.

Card No. _______________________________________ _ Exp. Date ______ _

Signature (required) _ ________________________________ _

Minimum age for Congress registration is 16.

T396


Use this form to register for the 1996 USA Gymnastics

Congress tests, examinations, certifications,

accreditations, etc.

USA GYMNASTICS CONGRESS - .-.-. B Olio n . Mas • . • J u n IJ 2 11·3 0

REGISTRATION IS

NON-REFUNDABLE AFTER

JUNE 14

NO PRE-REGISTRATION

AFTER

MAY31

AFTER MAY31 YOU MUST

REGISTER ON-SITE.

NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION FOR

ASEP COACHING PRINCIPLES COURSES

OR KAT WORKSHOPS

NO EXCEPTIONS

(r.SA GYMNASTICS

Please return this registration form to:

USA Gymnastics Congress Pan American,Plaza. Suite 300

201 S. Capitol Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225

Parent Session

JWHATMy PARENTS DID

d RIGHT"

Panel of Parents-Parents of current or fonner National Team Members or J.O. gymnasts.

Panel of Sport Scientists-Members of the USA Gymnastics Sport Science Advisory Panel including Dr. Dan Benardot (nutritionist) and Dr. Joan Duda (sport psychologist), and guest, Dr. Aurelia Nattiv (physician). NOTE: The Sport Science Panel members will not conduct presentations, but they will serve as responders.

Format: i~ 18 USA Gymnastics Session for Parents!

The Session will be moderated by Nancy Thies Marshall, USA Gymnastics Vice-President for Women and Chair of the USA Gymnastics Task Force on the Female Athlete Triad .

T he 1996 Congress presents a unique opportunity because it is conducted in conjunction with the 1996 USA Gymnastics Olympic Trials. Besides the normal attendees, there w ill be numerous "fans of gymnastics" in

cluding the parents of many young athletes involved in the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Programs.

USA Gymnasticz announces a special Session for Parents: "What My Parents Did Right"

Date: Friday, June 28

Time: 2:00-4:30 p .m .

Location: Cost:

The Auditorium, Hynes Convention Center, Boston

$10/ person (advanced sales), $15/ person (on-site)

Panel Presenters: Panel of Olympians- Former USA Gymnastics Olympians including Peter Vidmar (Men's Olympic Team, 1984), Nancy Thies Marshall (Women's Olympic Team, 1972), and other gymnastics Olympians.

The first hour will be devoted to the Presenters sharing their personal experiences about the role that their parents played during their gyrrmastics career or the role they played (as parents) in supporting their children . Several of the former Olympians are now parents themselves of children participating in gymnastics or other sports .

The second half of the session w ill follow a question and answer format.

Who can attend? This session is offered for the parents of gymnasts involved in women's artistic, men's artistic, or rhythmic gymnastics programs. (Interested USA Gymnastics National Congress registrants may attend this session without additional charge).

Can athletes attend? No. For this first USA Gymnastics effort at providing information to parents, we request that all attendees be parents of athletes. Please plan for the supervision of your young gyrrmasts and other children so that this can be a session devoted to parents.

II ~~~~~S~I~~ 11 Curriculum Poster Reward System I' ~ () " f( A M TM • Proven Effective in Building Enrollment Retention

Jeff Lulla, is • National Safely Certifi .... Congress Presenter. Prescbool PDP co-author. and an industty consultant His new gymnastics academy

/'

provides training programs for instructors. oflice and managemenL

• Provides a SAFE and Progressive Teaching System • Sets ACHIEVABLE Goals • Motivates Parents and Students • Keeps Records of when Skills are Passed • ValUi1blefor Measuring Teacher Efficiency

HOW IT WORKS ... Upon enrollment every student receives a Poster TO TAKE HOME. The whole family can monitor the students progress and share in the excitement as stars are awarded for skills learned. Includes training videos, curriculum cards, award certificates and more.

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Parent Session

USA GYMNASTICS SESSION lOR PARENTS - PRE-REGISTRATION fORM

As the parent(s) of a gymnast, we request:

_ One ticket ($10)

_ Two tickets ($15)

to the 1996 USA Gymnastics Parent' s Session on June 28, 3:00-4:30 p.m.

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* Your ticket(s) order will be mailed to this address.

My (our) child(ren) who participate in gymnastics are:

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For advanced sales, payment must be postmarked by May 31, 1996 ($10 ea.) After May 31, you must purchase tickets for this session ON-SITE($15 ea.)


tt o .A 19

., i~ 20

USA Gymnastics Congress

BOSTON SIGHTSEEING TOURS

View fashionable Beacon Hill with its stately 18th and 19th century homes, the "new" State House and Boston Common. Travel past many of the historic "Freedom Trail" sites including King's Chapel and Granary Burying Ground. the Old South Meeting House (where colonists gathered on the eve of the Boston Tea Party), the Old State House (seat of British royal authority in prerevolutionary Boston), Faneuil Hall (the Cradle of Liberty) . Learn about the revitalized Quincy Market, formerly colonial Boston's central market with its exciting shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Visit the Old North Church, made famous by its lanterns ---------------------------1 signaling Paul Revere to begin his" midnight ride" and delight in Dale Myerow Associates, Inc. - Professional Events the North End with its European atmosphere. We will travel to Management Charlestown to view the U.S.s. Constitution, known as "Old

D ale Myerow Associates, Inc., an independent destinations management company, is pleased to offer special sightseeing tours exclusively for USA Gymnastics National Congress and Olympic Trials attendees .

Tour #1 Thursday, June 27 Boston/Cambridge

Tour #2 Monday, July 1

Tour #3 Monday, July 1

Please note the following:

(12:30-4:30 p .m .)

Marblehead/Salem/Peabody Museum (9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.)

JFK Library (9:00 l .m.-12 :30 p.m.)

A minimum of 40 participants must sign-up for each tour. If the minimum number is not reached, a full refund will be available from Dale Myerow Associates, Inc.

All tours depart from the ITlain entrance of the Marriott Copley Hotel.

Early registration for tou rs is recommended to avoid a sellout. If tours have not reached full participation, a limited number of tickets will be available on-site.

Children must pay full fare and be accompanied by a parent.

Congress Boston Orientation Session This interesting and informative Congress Session w ill intro

duce Congress Attendees to Boston, the" Athens of America," a city of history and site of cultural and architectural splendor. This Congress session w ill be scheduled on Friday morning, June 28, at the Hynes Convention Center.

Boston has been the center of change, progress, and excitement in America for three and a half centuries. Since John Smith sailed into Boston Harbor in 1614, this has truly been a place where yesterday meets today.

During this orientation, learn about the variety of restaurants, museums, and general happenings available to you during your visit to Boston. It's fun and exci ting!

Tour 1 - Welcome to Boston/Cambridge Boston is known as the cultural, historical, and intellectual

center of the country. This tour is designed to highlight Boston's intriguing diversity. We will visi t Copley Square to view the outstanding architectural design of the Trinity Church, the oldest free public library in the country, the Boston Public Library, the elegantly refurbished 19th century Back Bay with its Victorian townhouses and mansions, and the Public Gardens with its century-old Swan boats.

Ironsides." Besides enjoying the sights of Boston's beautiful waterfront, pass by The Tea Party Ship, a replica of the brig "Beaver," where Boston's famous Tea Party was held in 1775. Boston's fascinating Chinatown, the center for its large Asian population, and the magnificent architectural complex of the world headquarters of the First Church of Christ, Scientist.

Our tour continues w ith a visit to notable Cambridge, steeped in tradition, history, and academic life. Our expert guide w ill highlight outstanding points of interest such as famed Harvard Square, Tory Row, M.I.T., the Charles River, Harvard University, and Widener Library (largest private library in U.s.). We will explore channing Harvard Yard, the original campus of the oldest university in the country. We look forward to having you join us for a fascinating overview of this lovely town.

Thursday, June 27, 12:30-4:30 pm-a 4-hour comprehensive tour costing $21 .00 per person, based on a minimum of 40 participants and includes deluxe motorcoach and professional guide.

Tour 2 - Marblehead/Salem/Peabody Museum Marblehead is known as one of the yachting capitals of the

country with an elegant mixture of historical attractions and old world charm. Located on an ocean-cooled peninsula, its quaint "Old Town," narrow cobbles tone stree ts and scenic harbor are a sightseer's delight. Visit Abbot Hall to view the famous "Spirit of 76" and learn about the patriotic Marbleheaders who rowed George Washington across the Delaware.

Nex t on our agenda is a v isi t to Salem, which is noted for its maritime tradition, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventures


USA Gymnastics Congress

for lovers of period architecture and witchcraft. It boasts the most impressive examples of Federal architecture in the United States. Drive down magnificent Chestnut Street where we will be guided back in time to see how the wealthy ship captains lived , surrounded by beauty and the booty of their sea travels. Then attend a private tour in the world-class Peabody Museum with its impressive collections of artifacts from a sailing era that brought spices from India, and ar t objects and porcelains from China and Japan. There w ill be time for lunch on your own and browsing in the shops.

Monday, July 1, 9:00-3:00 pm- Based on a minimum of 40 participants: Tour includes admission, professional tour guides, taxes, gratuities and deluxe motorcoach transportation. $40.00 per person (with lunch on your own).

Tour 3 - John F. Kennedy Library The Museum at the Kennedy Library captures the powerful

story of the Kennedy years giving visitors a "first-hand" experience of those 1000 days of the 35th President of the United States. There are 25 dramatic exhibits and an outstanding film w hich recreate the world of President Kelmed y' s life, leadership and legacy. Accompany him w hen he won the 1960 Democratic nomination, view his preSidential debates from behind the studio camera and learn how he face d the complex, dangerous challenges of the nuclear age. The Library also traces the career of his brother Robert F. Kennedy. A visit to this striking library/ museum which overlooks Boston 's waterfront and designed by LM. Pei is well worthw hile.

Monday, July 1, 9:00 am-12:30 pm-$26.00 per person, based on 40 participants, including deluxe motorcoach transporta tion, professional guide, admissions, gra tuities, and taxes .

Tour Registration Form

Name ____________________________________________ __

Address __________________________________________ _

City ________________________ State ____ Zip ________ _

Home Telephone ______________ Work Telephone ____________ _

Your Hotel in Boston ____________________________________ _

Please reserve the following tours for me: Tour #1 Thurs, June 27 Boston/ Cambridge _ @ $21. 00 per person " $ __ _

Tour #2 Mon, July 1 Marblehead/ Salem/ Peabody Museum _ @ $40.00 per person $ __ _

Tour #3 Mon, July 1 JFK Library _ @ $26.00 per person $ __ _

Total amount enclosed $ __ _

Ticket Pickup: Your name will appear on a list indicating your tour registration and will b checked off at time

of arriving for tour.

Please complete the order blank and mail with your check or money order made payable to:

Dale Myerow Associates 10 Preston Court

Swampscott, MA 01907

NO CASH or CHARGES-Payment must be made in U.S. funds drawn on a U.S. bank. Your cancelled check will be your receipt.

please Note: • A minimum of 40 participants must sign up for each program. Should the minimum

number not be reached, a full refund will be available.

• All tours depart from the main entrance of the Marriott Copley Hotel.

• Early registration for tours is recommended to avoid a sellout. If tours have not reached full participation, a limited number of tickets will be available on-site.

• Children must pay full fare and be accompanied by a parent.

Please DO NOT contact USA Gymnastics regarding these tours. The tours are organized and offered through Dale Myerow Associates, Inc. For further information, contact Dale Myerow Associates - 617/ 592-3284 (Tell, 617/ 592-3334 (Fax).


tt

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I ., A 22

Sport Psychology

ANXIETY IN ELITE YOUNG GYMNASTS: PART I - DEFINITIONS OF STRESS AND RELAXATION

Joan L. Duda, Ph.D.

Lori Gano-Overway, M.S. Purdue Universihj

T he world of high-level gymnastics is characterized by intensive practice demanding competition, the public display of skills, and evaluation by others. This environment may be overwhelming for gymnasts of all ages but

less is known about the nature, determinants, and effects of anxiety for the serious, young competitor. How such ath-letes view and respond to stress in some ways Will. determine their success in gymnastics as well as the quality of their gymnastics experience.

Competitive stress is defined as the "negative emotions, feelings, and thoughts that one might have with respect to their [ath-letic] experience such as feelings of apprehension, anxiety, muscle tension, nervousness, physical reaction, thoughts centered on worry and self-doubt, and negative statements" (Scanlan, Stein, and Ravizza, 1991, p. 105). These feelings and emotions arise from an imbalance between athletes' perceptions of their abilities and the perceived demands of the situation (Martens, 1987). In essence, competitive stress is an indiVidualize/d process that is greatly due to how each athlete perceives his/her sport world. It is the purpose of this first article in a series to examine the personal definitions of stress among young gymnasts to learn more about their anxiety responses . To provide a potential telling con-trast, definitions of the relaxation state were also explored. Knowledge of such subjective defini- , tions is critical if we hope to maximize skill development and maintain the involvement of young talented gymnasts .

Method Seventy-five female members of the 1993-1994 TOPs

gymnastics team, between the ages of 9-12 (mean age was 9.98 years) were administered a multi-section questionnaire by the first author (Duda) at a National Camp. When completing the instrument, the gymnasts were encouraged to answer honestly and in their own words. They were assured that their responses would be kept confidential and that only group-based findings would be reported.

The inventory comprised a number of open-ended statements/ questions focused (1) on the characteristics of the stress and relaxation states, (2) the perceived causes of stress, (3) the ways gymnasts manifest stress, and (4) the ways gymnasts attempt to manage their anxiety. In terms of personal definitions, the gymnasts were asked to complete the statements "Stress is ... " and "Relaxation is ... " specific to their participation in gymnastics.

Responses were reviewed by the researchers and placed into thematic categories to determine how

/

the gymnasts as a group experience these different states. The frequency of re

sponses classified in each category was calculated.

~ Results The findings indicated that young, talented gym

nasts define stress as a negative response which is encountered somatically, cognitively, and emo

tionally as well as in terms of the situation in which they find themselves. Relaxation was deemed to be composed of the positive aspects of the aforementioned elements. As shown in

Table I, four broad thematic categories emerged. In each case, exemplary quo

tations and the percentage of responses classified within the particular category are provided.

__ ._ Discussion Sport psychology research has

... demonstrated that competitive ~ stress leads to performance decre

ments, a greater likelihood of injuries, and more attentional difficulties (Beuter and Duda,1985; Burton, 1988; Williams, Tonymon, and Anderson, 1991). Studies have also shown that anxiety corresponds to

decreased enjoyment and higher drop-out rates (Smith, 1986). Consistent with this literature,

an examination of TOP Team members' perceptions of stress revealed this experience to be an unpleasant and undesirable s tate that is manifested in the way they think, feel, and act. This finding informs us that young, elite gymnasts are conscious


Sport Psychology

of what stress is like within their athletic environment. Stress was especially associated with fearful and/ or frus trating emotional reactions to what was required in the sport. Based on their responses, it was apparent that the current sample of gymnasts did not view being anxious as conducive to optimal performance or related to a quality gymnastics experience.

The members of the TOP Team were also cognizant of the contrasting, positive dimensions associated with relaxation. They viewed relaxation as marked by affirming thoughts, good feelings and, in particular, a desirable condition in terms of their bodies . These results are also aligned with the sport psychology literature which suggests that relaxation is "a relaxed s ta te of mind which prepares the performer to produce more effectively than if it were in a slightly tensed state, just as a relaxed muscle can contract more effectively than a slightly tensed one" (Kubistant, 1986 p. 126) . Thus, when a gymnast is relaxed, it should facilitate her concentration, help conserve energy and assist the athlete in controlling minute aspects of her p erformance.

To decrease the frequency and intensity of stress responses (and foster the occurrence of relaxation states), we need to know w hat gymnasts perceive to be causing them to feel anxious rather than relaxed. The perceived sources of stress in the case of members of our TOPs National Team will be the focus of the next article in this series.

• -~ . ,

I I : II

. 1 ]0 ; , i i'

FREE CATALOG In NY 914-963-0005 Dept. GA36

References Beuter, A., and Duda, J.L. (1985). Analysis of the arousal/motor

performance relationship in children using movement kinematics . Journal of Sport Psychology. 7, 229-243.

Burton, D. (1988). Do anxious swimmers swim slower? Reexamining the elusive anxiety-performance relationship. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 10,45-61.

Kubistant, T. (1986). Pelforming your best: A guide to psychological I skills for high achievers. Leisure Press: Champaign, IL. "

Martens, R (1987). Coaches guide to sport psychology. Human Kinet- A ics Publishers: Champaign, IL. 23

Scanlan, T.K and Lewthwaite, R (1984) Social psychological aspects of competition for male youth sport participants: 1. Predictors of Competitive Stress. Journal of Sport Psychology. 208-226.

Scanlan, T. K, Stein, G. L., and Ravizza, K (1991) . An in-depth study of former elite figure skaters: III. Sources of stress. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 13, 103-120.

Smith, RE. (1986). Toward a cognitive-affective model of athletic burnout. Journal of Sport Psychology. 8, 36-50.

Williams, J. M., Tonymon, P., and Anderson, M. B. (1991). The effects of stressors and coping resources on anxiety and peripheral narrowing. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 3, 1 26-141 .


I

" A 24

Sport Psychology

Table 1 - Definitions of Stress and Relaxation among Young Gymnasts

"Stress is ... "

Negative Affective Responses (42.5 %)

"Frustra tion. It makes you sometimes angry, scared, tense, or nervous. "

You become tense, nervous, and scared and sometimes even discouraged about something."

"When you get very nervous or just nervous. Or w hen you are trying to do a skill and you are afraid to go for it. "

Negative Bodily Responses (26.3%)

"You get tense, scared, and nervous. Stress is when your body gets tight and you start shaking."

"You break out into a sweat your muscles tense up, you become ' paralyzed' and you can't do anything the way you want to ."

"You are nervous and tight in the stomach. You sweat a lot and are very tense.

Negative Situations Created by Self and/or Others (15.6%)

"A pressure that is really heavy. Stress is w hen you have all sorts of pressures on you and it's not comforting at all."

"You are tight and nervous about something BIG coming up or anything very important."

"Nervous, not doing good and then getting yelled at, .. .in competition ."

Negative Thoughts Concerning Personal Performance (13.8 %)

"You are scared to do a trick or worried you might get hurt. When you are worried to do it."

" I feel nervous or worried about if I w ill make myself happy with my performance."

"You are really nervous and don' t think you can do it. And you can' t calm yourself down."

"Relaxation is ... "

Positive Affective Responses (29.1 %)

"You're calm and cheery ... and you can joke around."

"A great feeling, ... you are happier."

Positive Bodily Responses (36.4%)

"Your muscles or body is all loose and you feel comfortable."

"You're nice and calm, you have control over what your body is doing."

"When my muscles are loose."

Pleasant Situations Created by Self and/or Others (6.9%)

"You are totally relaxed and you're doing everything you need to. "

"Like getting your mind off something stressful and just doing nothing."

"Not a pressure."

Positive Thoughts Concerning Personal Performance (24.5 %)

"You aren' t nervous and w hen you believe in yourself and know you can do it. "

"You feel confident and feel good about yourself. "

"You are just thinking good thoughts."


\

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" A 26

Women's Gymnastics

TOPsREPORT Gary Warren, USA Gymnastics Elite Program Manager

T he 1995 Talent Opportunity Program (TOP) National Training Camp was held in Tulsa, Okla. at Tulsa World of Gymnastics . Seventy-three athletes ages 9-11 year old gathered for the fourth annual TOP National Training

Camp. In general, the athletes showed progress in the program areas that were emphasized by the National Staff. The National Staff was extremely pleased with the improvement shown by the athletes and individual programs. The athletes were stronger, their body positions and alignments were better, and they all showed improvement in the dance areas. Of all of the events, only the Balance Beam appeared to be behind in improvement. The 11-year-olds trained an extra day to start work on the National Elite Testing Program. It was decided at the camp that the National Elite Testing Program will be integrated into the TOP program. An Ad H oc Committee of Elite Program Committee members and National Staff members will be formed to review TOP.

For the second year in a row, the 9-11 year old National TOP Team was given a survey. The athletes were asked abou t their level of competition, number of years in gymnastics, number of years in gymnastics competition, number of hours they train each week. etc. The following is a short summary of results of the survey:

1994 Response 1995 Response

Level of competition 8.49 8.62

Years in gymnastics

Years in competition

Number of hours training/ week

5.46

2.85

NA

5.76

3.42

22.69

At a recent Elite Program Committee meeting, it was decided that the medicine ball throw would be eliminated from Regional and National TOP Testing (see REPC minutes) .

1996 TOP Calendar Regional Testing (June-July at various Regional Sites)

National Testing (October 3-6, 1996 at Colorado Springs, Colo. - USOTC)

National Training Camp (December 5-8,1996 at Tulsa, Okla.Tulsa World of Gymnastics)

For Regional information, please contact your Regional TOP representatives

I Regional Elite Chairman and TOP Directors Region I

Region II

Region III

Region IV

Region V

Region VI

Elite Committee- David McCreary - (916) 383-1778

TOP Director - Derrick Moellenbeck -(702) 355-7755

Elite Committee- Brad Loan - (206) 845-0910

Elite Committee- Tom Forster - (719) 260-1893

TOP Director - Scott Crouse - (817) 738-0688

Elite Committee- Jim Chudy - (414) 549-3344

Elite Committee- Mary Lee Tracy - (513) 860-3082

TOP Director - Patrick Jordan - (513) 489-7575

Elite Committee- Byron Knox - (203) 271-0279

TOP Director - Jay Villegas - (401) 884-2830

Region VII Elite Committee- Gary Anderson - (301) 468-9181

Region VIII Elite Committee- Ray Gnat - (407) 869-8744

TOP Director - James Linderholm -(205) 883-0566


Announcements

MAJOR GYMNASTICS SPECTACUlAR The organizing committee is proud to announce the first

ever Yorkshire Gymnastics Spectacular to take place in Yorkshire, England. This event promises to be an innovation in

gymnastics events. The Date - June 15-16, 1996 The Venue _ North Bridge Leisure Centre in Halifax, En-

gland, U.K The Concept _ A festival of gymnastics The festival will

feature group displays, workshops, a fun team challenge competition, a star studded gala performance, and much

The Details _ For an information packet please contact Mat-more.

thew Greenwood: Tel: +4.11 (0113) 2832600 ext 3513

Fax: +44 (0113) 2833201

Email: M.Greenwood@lmu . ac . uk.

The event is supported by the Yorkshire and Humberside

Amateur Gymnastics Association.

The Or . GYM - 96 you gamzing C r perf omm' ormanc Ittee of The Date e group to K Gym - 96 . The V - June 26-30 19 nstiansand

l NS

pleased to' . enue _ A ,96 (Ent. ,orway InvIte

Th;o;n" well :!;'::;~% EXhibitiO~,~e'dlme 3115196)

d' oncept _ Th' us other I ena In the Isp1ay' IS g OcatlOn center f wheel ;' Judged 'h~rrm"ti" Ie,t· '''ound the." the gYmna,r,::,;n"ti", Rs~ te'm ,0m~;~IWil1 I.,tuce OWn. PIng, cin . LeISure and artist" hon, com . group Water acteu:a, disco obachvities ab IC men's andPehtion in

IVIt" ,sta I ound' Wo The Det'l Ies, and th d c e COures ~ 111cludin men's

Gu al S _ For a' e ay of the ,swllnmin g shop

_ 460{ Icun&- K'isb,n mlonnatio C'miv,L g and othe,

nStiansand nsands Gymn pa~ket pleas

Tel: +473 ' Norway. nashcs Club; Contact M 80 9136 ostboks 449

r.

,or +4790 ' 191836

POMMELHO ~1 ~t"e on" Re . liSE IIULl

en s Coach' glOnal Direct

D 111g and J ors

ennis M I udging C

To:

From: F c ntyre ommunity

ebruary 23 Re: CI ,1996

ass III Pomm It has come el Horse Re .

Date:

~arts of the co to my attention tl qUJred Skills c 1ange made ~ntry: among our

1at there is some

number 2 wh' hthe Class III P coaches and J' d confusion in , IC fo ' omm luges The ne' rmerly read, . e Horse Re .' as to the

Committe: ~tu1e, as adopted b . DIrect Stockli B qUJred Skill, " A ItS May 14 Oa y the Junior 0 .

highe;;; tlhree hand pIa kland, Ca1ifornialympic Program a ue f cement meetIn E ' per ormed b ' on one g, reads'

xamples f ehind th b pommel sk'n . two po 0 somesk 'll e ack." ,I of B or . mmel1 1 s wh' I CIrcle. A Ru . oops, Stockli IC 1 satisfy thi

ment since ~ts::n on one pom~eBai1ie, 3/4 ~:i~(uir~ment are: If you hav performed in fr~~oe: not satisf;'tl~I pommel

not hesitate te any questions c 0 the bOdy. IS require-o contact me (3 oncerning th' 17-237-5050) IS matter, pleas d . e 0

U.S. ClASSIC AND NATIONAl GYM fESTIVAL ARE COMBINED

The Women's program' s U.s. Classic and the National Gym ""tiv,l will be combined to ,un on the "me weekend

The competitions will be conducted at the Olympic Train

ing Center in Colorado Springs, May 17-19, 1996. U . .s. Classic competitiors are the Junior and Senior

Internationals. The National Gym Festival competitiors

are

the Junior and Senior Nationals.


9 ., A 27

1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

:1 I I

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Sport Science

BIOMECHANICAL FACTORS THAT EFFECT EQUILIBRIUM DURING PERFORMANCE

Dr. William Cornelius Texas Woman's Universih)

G ymnastics skills are often performed in combination and can be associated w ith both s tatic and dynamic equilibrium. Kreighbaum and Barthels (1966) describe equilibrium as synonymous w ith balance and as the

sta te of a system that is not changing circumstance. Skills performed in equilibrium are not being positively or negatively accelerated and are in a sta te of motion that remains constant. The opposite is true w ith those skills or combinations performed with positive or negative acceleration that are regarded as out of equilibrium. Figure 1 provides a variety of examples of being w ithin and outside equilibrium. Frames A and D are both examples of being within equilibrium. Frame A represents static equilibrium, w ith the line of gravity passing within the base of support and a center of gravi ty (CG) possessing zero acceleration. Frame D depicts d ynamic equilibrium and no apparent change in acceleration. On the other hand, frame T represents being out of equilibrium by an abrupt change in direction and angular momentum.

Figure 1

Skills Inside and Outside Equilibrium

A B c D E F G H

N o P Q R

Biomechanical Considerations There are a number of w ays in which manipulation of equilib

rium can lead to successful outcomes in gymnastics performance. The following is designed to identify biomechanical factors in Figure 1 that influence static and d ynamic equilibrium and the extent to which stability and instability exist.

Range within equilibrium There can be varia tion in the level of equilibrium. Stability is the

term that describes the range within equilibrium and represents resis tance to losing equilibrium. Stability can be connected w ith equilibrium, regardless of w hether a skill or combination is static or dynamic, and is the degree to which control exis ts. Stability is minimal in frames A, B, and X in the forward direction.

A lower level of stability is present because the base of support is sm all, the CG is relatively high off the floor, and the line of

J K L M

s T u v w X


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Sport Science

gravity (vertical line passing through CG) is close to the front edge. Frame V illustrates a w ider base of support, a CG that is low and a line of gravity closer to the back edge. This provides greater stability particularly in the forward direction, because the line of gravity (LOG) is located away from the front edge.

Dynamic equilibrium is often accompanied by a lower level of stabili ty. It can be alluring to seek maintenance of instability when combinations are performed explosively. Skill combinations associated with dynamic equilibrium are not always desirable. It is often advantageous to rely on establishing increased angular and/ or linear momentum at various support or contact points. The result is temporary loss of equilibrium. This can be seen in Figure 1 throughout most of the movement sequence (frames B-W). Maintenance of instability is depicted in frames E through T. Instability can be maintained by changing angular momentum with the external reaction torque produced at support in frames FG, M-N, and P-Q. Dynamic equilibrium is lost as positive angular acceleration occurred at each floor contact point and then regained momentarily w hile in flight. Although there can be a continuum within stability, from very little to high levels of stability, the gymnast must be able to effectively move in and out of equilibrium. Gymnastics performance can often be at the ed ge of control. Complete control at all times is a myth. The level of momentum necessary to generate effective gymnastics combinations relies on continuously moving in and out of equilibrium.

Loss of equilibrium Change introduces a loss of equilibrium, w hether static or

dynamic. The gymnast is out of equilibrium when change occurs in the state of motion. Static equilibrium no longer exists when the total CG translates in any direction. An example of this can be observed in frames A-B, as the CG moves upward and slightly forward, with the resultant primarily vertical. Dynamic motion is now easily facilitated w hen the CG and associated LOG moves forward toward the front edge of the base of support. Moving out of equilibrium i:; not particularly evident as the gymnast moves from frame B-C with the CG positively accelerating forward . Loss of dynamic equilibrium also results from frame D-E as the CG moves from a horizontal path to a slight upward projection in preparation to contact both feet. This directional adjustment introduces change in state of motion as the CG begins rising; consequently, a vertical component is added to the resultant angle of projection formed in frame E.

Linear momentum Forward translation of the CG in frames B-C serves to act ac the

initiator of linear momentum that continues through frame W. Change in equilibrium is the result of an external reaction force from the flo or, initiated from the plantar flexor muscle group at the ankle joints,. as the gymnast rises vertically on the toes and swings the arms rearward. The body then moves out of equilibrium as the LOG is moved forward of the base of support (frames B-C). A forward swing of the arms assists the plantar flexors in moving the CG further forward of the base of support. This results in initiating a transfer of momentum from a vertical to a horizontal pathway. Linear momentum is coupled with the presence of an impending loss in dynamic equilibrium during the running sequence (frames C-D). The swing phase of each stride is associated with a temporary loss of dynamic equilibrium. Each subsequent foot strike can momentarily reestablishes dynamic equilibrium. Consequently,

this maintenance of instability in moving the LOG forward of the base of support, and the reaffirmation of equilibrium w ith each foot strike, is essential to transferring momentum and establishing explosive movements that accompany gymnastics activities.

Quick stretch Explosive movements are essential in moving in and out of

equilibrium. The technique of quickly extending the body in frame E places the anterior muscles on stretch and initiates a stretch reflex. There is a similar scenario in frame F as the quadriceps muscle group is quickly stretched in knee flexion. This s tre tch reflex or myotatic reflex facilitates concentric muscle contraction in the quadriceps. This results in expediting positive acceleration or effective movement of the gymnast our of equilibrium buy s timulating the muscle spindle receptors located in the quadriceps. Greater force can be produced w hen these are quickly stretched ( length tension principle). Consequently, effective knee extension (frames F-G) and forward flexion of the upper body (frames G-H) results in improving performance of the forward saIto. This principle is replicated in the tuck position (frame I) as the extensor muscles of the back and hip joints undergo a quick stretch and assist in an explosive opening in preparation for floor contact. The same analogy can be made in frame K in the right quadriceps muscle group, in frame L in the left quadriceps and both the anterior shoulder and abdominal muscle groups, and in frame P with the anterior shoulders, trunk, and thighs. Frame S demonstrates a similar scenario with the entire anterior aspect of the body, but for the purpose of stimulating eccentric muscle contraction for controlling the rate at w hich the forward roll is to be performed in frames T-W.

Angle of projection The angle of projection at takeoff for a particular skill has a

great deal to do with how effective the gymnast can be in changing the direction or path of the CG. A gymnast's angle of projection from the floor can be resolved into vertical and horizontal component velocities . This can be translated into successful chan ges in dynamic equilibrium. Frames G, N, and Q possess projection angles that are approximately 67-70 degrees to the floor. Kreighbaum and Barthels (1996) suggest that a resolution of vectors for an angle of projection greater than 45 degrees indicates that the vertical vector component is larger than the horizontal vector component. This particular angle of projection allows the gymnast to produce sufficient vertical displacement, yet continue to produce suitable angular momentum to meet performance standards.

An underarm action at takeoff best accentuates lift force for ver tical displacement (Hinrichs and Cornelius, 1986), but the overhead lift action used in frames F and P can be particularly effective at producing or maintaining angular momentum in skill combinations. Consequently, when there is the need to produce a balance between angular momentum and linear momentum in floor exercise skill combinations, as seen in frames M-Q, the overhead lift provides some advantages over the underarm lift. Although the underarm lift could be used in frame F very effectively, and provided advantages over the overhead lift in implementing greater ground reaction force for vertical displacement, simultaneous linear and angular momentum improvement can best be produced with the overhead


Sport Science

action, particularly when skills are performed in combination. The necessity to use an overhead teclmique can be seen in frames O-Q when the underarm ac tion would not act well in transition from one skill to the next.

Angle of incidence The angle at which some gymnasts approaches the floor is

one of the critical factors associated with the performance of a combination of skills. A variety of angles of incidence can be seen in frames], 0 , and S. The angle of incidence (angle of approach) for a body in flight can affect whether s tatic or dynamic equilibrium is successfully reached. Furthermore, this angle can be instrumental in providing the pathway for effective implementation of positive acceleration and the means by which the gYl1U1ast quickly moves our of equilibrium.

Paramount in whether the appropriate angle of incidence is reached at floor contact is initially dependent upon the angle of projection and the magnitude of the angular momentum created at takeoff. Angular momentum of a spinning gYl1U1ast's body is solely created at takeoff, unless acted upon by an external force . Other mechanical factors having an important effect on the angle of incidence lie with aerodynamic drag force and with the pull of gravity. Consequently, the angle if incidence and the state of equilibrium are closely related when associated with particular subsequent skill combinations, such as a step-out (frame K), or a forward roll (frame T).

A parabolic flight path is formed if gravity is the only external force acting on the gYl1U1ast. The projectile will not form a parabola, however, because an aerodynamic drag force produces an air interface during flight (Kreighbaum and Barthels, 1996; Dowell, 1981). Aerodynamic drag on the frontal surface of the gYl1U1ast results in producing a high pressure area and in reducing horizontal displacement. The angle of incidence then becomes slightly greater than the preceding angle of projection.

Placement of the base of support Location of the base of support, relative to the CG, can be a

significant factor in facilitating abrupt changes in equilibrium. Placing the base of support forward of the moving body (frames F, K, M, P, T, and W) provides the mechanism for maximizing a change in direction or velocity. This places the base of support beyond the LOG and renders and effective means by which the action impulse, applied at the takeoff point, results in an external reaction force effectively facilitating an alteration in the forward moving boy. Two application of these principles can be seen in Figure 1. For example, reducing or absorbing impact at floor contact, with a base of support that progressively changes (frames T- W), brings the gymnast into static equilibrium (frame X) when the mechanical purpose of the skill or combination is to reduce linear or angular momentum. A change in dynamic equilibrium also results when the mechanical purpose of the base of support is to maximize vertical projection (frame N).

Placement of the base of support can position the gYl1U1ast for subsequent embellishment of linear motion. This can be seen in frames K-M as the gymnast moves from a front salto into preparing to perform the front handspring. A transition from angular momentum to linear momentum occurs at frame K with the step-out and enacts positive linear acceleration of the CG

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into frame M. The mechanical purpose of the step-out is to provide transition from angular to linear motion and to facilitate maximization of linear motion of the CG (frames KM). This is in preparation for an abrupt change from the horizontal to vertical direction in frames M-N. The angular acceleration of the upper and lower body, a large angle at the shoulder joint, and a quickly elevated shoulder girdle, provides the means by which an effective action force at floor impact can enhance vertical projection for the front handspring.

Implications Effective performance can best be attained when it is

understood. Equilibrium is one more piece to the puzzle when dealing w ith human movement. Coaches and gynm asts can take control of a training session when there is communication . Critical to a working relationship that effectively deals with human motion is an understanding of anatomical and mechanical principles of movement.

References Himichs, R.N. and Cornelius, W.L. (June 1986) . The impor

tance of arm-swing during a front somersault. International Gymnast, 28(6):44-45.

Kreighbaum, E. and Barthels, K.M. (1966). Biomechanics: A qualitative approach for studying human movement. (4th ed .). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Dowell, L.]. (1981) Trajectory of a ball in flight: The parabolic myth. TAHPER Journal, 50(1):14-15, 62-63.


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'--~------Men's Judging

COMPETITIVE AND JUDGING TRENDS: RINGS

I John Scheer, Andy Zembower, Ron Brant ~ .. 'III' National Apparatus Leader Program

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M uch of the bonus point potential on rings can be found in the static strength and swing to strength parts. But when are our gymnasts executing these parts in ways that allow judges to award bonus?

What are the deductions for failing to meet specified positions? Further, what guidelines should we be following for a few swing parts which are being deducted frequently in international competition? After many hours of videotape analysis in the summer of 1995, we wrote a report to Mas Watanabe and the MPC in which we recommended some controversial position deductions for the evaluation of strength parts in the USA. While the FIG Code specifies deductions for angle violations, angles are not always easy to see or determine, so we were continually trying to find body positions which correlated with acceptable technical execution and specific angles. Among the questions we wanted to address were:

When is akip (or other swing) to Lcross aD? When is it anA+C?

When is an Azarian roll an Azarian roll? When is it not?

When is a back uprise (or other swing) to inverted cross an E? When is it a D? When is it a nothing?

What does a maltese really look like? A planche? What does a judge do if it's in between?

When is a Li Ning a D? When is it a B+B or even B+A?

What other swing parts are receiving close attention internationally?

What body positions can a judge look for to evaluate these skills?

Below, we will give our current recommendations on s trength, swing to strength, and a few swing parts on rings. In some cases, these recommendations may have changed slightly from our original report, to reflect extensive discussions we had with Julio Marcos, FIG Men's Technical Committee controller on rings, and how he interpreted the Code in practice at the IBM Atlanta International Gymnastics Invitational in November, 1995.

The notes which follow the recommendations will help the reader understand the rationale for the recommended ded uctions.

Recommendations on cross positions We recommend the following standards for determining de

ductions in the cross, L cross, Azarian roll to cross, and inverted cross:

1. Middle of shoulders in rings 0.0

2. Middle of shoulders at top of rings 0.1

3. Middle of shoulders above top of rings 0.2 (or .4 if >30)

Note 1: Do we want a truly strict interpretation of the final hold position in crosses or should we allow for a slight deviation? A strict interpretation would be that the shoulders must be at the bottom of the rings for no deduction! Our gymnastics sense, however, tells us that a few degrees above horizontal, with the shoulders in the rings, is still an excellent position, and this report allows for that slight deviation.

Note 2: The same question above holds for inverted crosses, as well. In the Pan American games, a Cuban gymnast named Merino did two superb inverted crosses with his shoulders down in the rings . Technically, since he was above a degrees, he should have received a .1 deduction from each, but not a single judge deducted. There are only a few gymnasts in the world, Paul O'Neil for example, that can do an inverted with the shoulders at the bottom of the rings.

Note 3: In Atlanta, Julio Marcos said that the Azarian roll to L cross must be performed very slowly and with the shoulders within the rings to receive E credit (or D credit for the regular cross). If judges see the gymnast pike or quickly accelerate in a straightarm back kip type action, it is no longer a roll. In practice, Marcos generally awarded D credit for straight arm back kips to L cross. In the USA we have been awarding D only if the shoulders arrive above the rings at 15 degrees or less (middle of shoulders at top of rings), or B+C if the straight arm back kip enters above 15 degrees, then the gymnast lowers to L cross (see swing to strength recommendations below). We believe we should continue a strict interpretation. The Azarian must be a slow roll in which the shoulders do not go above the top of the rings. Likewise, the back kip to L cross should only be given D credit if the shoulders do not go above the top of the rings.

Note 4: We asked Marcos about the above shoulder position recommendations. He said that if a gymnast has short arms or a false grip, the angle and corresponding deduction would be greater. We do not wish to recommend measuring all gymnasts' arms. In the interest of simplicity, the above positions are close to the Code for most gymnasts. However, Marcos did say that false grips will be deducted .1 to .2 in the new Code next year.

Note 5: In practice, Marcos did follow a strict interpretation of the Code for the inverted cross to press up to handstand (D+ E). If he thought an inverted cross was held 30 to 45 degrees too high before the press up, he devalued the press out to a D and deducted .4 on the inverted cross position (D+D, - 0.4). This follows exactly the Code rule in Article 24.5, page 26.

Recommendations on swing to crosses The standards we recommend for awarding value and taking

deductions on swing to crosses and inverted crosses follow the Code and the interpretation of shoulder positions noted above. It


Men's Judging

is important, however, to read the notes accompanying this section for qualifications and exceptions.

1. If the swing takes the middle of the shoulders to the top of the rings or lower, value is given . Position deductions are taken only on the final hold position, if warranted .

2. If the swing takes the middle of the shoulders above the top of the rings (corresponding to >15 degrees), the skill is devalued, but again, position deductions are only taken on the final hold position.

Note 1: In swinging or rolling into these positions, the FIG allows the gymnast to arrive at an initial support position up to 15 degrees above horizontal and still receive full difficulty credit. Therefore, if a gymnast does a kip to L cross, for example, in which the shoulders arrive at the top of the rings, he should receive D credit, whereas if the shoulders arrive above the top of the rings he should be given A +c.

Note 2: In the 1994 Winter Cup, George Beckstead and I decided to apply a strict interpretation of the FIG Code to all swing to L cross positions, and this resulted in many gymnasts receiving A+C value. By the 1994 USA Championships, many of those gymnasts had lowered their initial support positions down to the point where they received D credit. The recommendations above are intended to achieve the same results with all strength parts on rings for our USA teams.

Note 3: At Atlanta, Marcos was not as strict in his evaluation of kip L cross, honma L cross, and felge L cross . He evaluated them as Ds as long as the gynmast did not show support, even if the position was greater than 15 degrees. However, we recommend a strict interpretation on swings to L crosses for two reasons. First, a strict interpretation is the only way our gymn asts w ill be challenged to get their entry positions dow n. Second, we should not have a rule that could make our gymnasts vulnerable to an unfavorable panel in International competition (give them a chance to deduct and they will).

Note 4: At Atlanta, Marcos awarded honma L cross D, even though the shoulders arrived above the rings well above 15 degrees. He said the nature of the skill requires a high entry, but if it is done well and moves quickly to the L cross, it should be given D credit. We agree.

Note 5: The above recommendations make it exceedingly difficult for an y gymnast to receive E credit for a swing to inverted cross. Almost every gymnast arrives at an initial support position with his shoulders above the rings, then lowers down a little to the final inverted hold position. Julio Marcos said that if the shoulders arrive a little above 15 degrees on a swing to inverted, but the gymnast moves in a controlled, smooth, and continuous swing to a good inverted position, we should give the E credit.

However, Marcos further said that if the gymnast comes in above 15 degrees, stops or struggles for control, then lowers, we should give only D credit.

We agree. This represents the time-honored" gymnastics sense" rule of thumb. Marcos said the judge "must feel it." We're sure he just means that if the judge says to himself "now that was well done," the judge should give the E credit.

Note 6: Again, as w ith crosses, there is no deduction per se for the shoulders coming in too high on a swing to inverted, as the shoulder position out of the swing simply dictates the value that is given. However, deductions are, of course, taken on the final hold position, if warranted, under the guidelines noted

above. Marcos said that inverteds are a problem internationally, they should be held as low as possible (shoulders at the bottom of the rings would be ideal), and he was strict in his deductions at Atlanta. Under the guidelines we recommend above, if the middle of the shoulders are at the top of the rings, the inverted should be deducted .1, even though this is actually a pretty good position for inverted crosses .

Recommendation on maltese positions The maltese has become a very controversial skill. Since the

maltese receives D value, and the planche is a C, and swinging into them raises their value a letter, many gymnasts attempt to get the higher values with less than perfect techniques. So, let's start with perfect positions:

1. A perfect maltese, or maltese cross as many call it, would be performed with a perfectly horizontal body line at the bottom of the rings with the w idest possible arm spread. A slight arch with the hips in the rings, but the shoulders and heels at the top of the rings (as Chechi performs the skill), is probably OK and would not be deducted internationally. But Marcos made it clear that the arms must be spread, and the rings would, therefore, be turned out w ith the palms facing down and maybe a little forward.

2. A perfect planche would be performed with a perfectly horizontal body line well above the top of the rings, and the hands under the outside of the hips. A slight arch would be OK, as long as the line from the shoulders to the heels is level. It appears that a gymnast could keep the rings relatively straight, as Gushiken and others have done, or turn the rings out, as Paul O'Neil does.

We can tell the coaching community that when a gymnast starts to mix the techniques described above, judges get real uncomfortable. Our gymnastics sense (all of us, coaches and judges alike) tells us when a maltese is well done and when it is not. Some gymnasts get their bodies level with their hips down in the rings, but have no arm spread whatsoever. Other gymnasts (Belenky, for example) have a nice arm spread, but their shoulders and hips are above the top of the rings, and in Belenky's case his heels are well above his shoulders, as well. Further, some gymnasts appear to simply lean forward with an excessive arch which puts their shoulders well above the rings while their hips are down in the rings. These are poor positions that certainly must be deducted, sometimes w ith multiple deductions.

The Code is no help in describing the perfect position for a maltese. In fact, the Code doesn't even use the term maltese, but just describes a swallow as a "free support scale at ring height" (Structure group VI, skill 14, page 108). The Code shows a side picture which does not help a judge determine arm spread. We recommend the following standards for determining whether a skill is a mal tese or a planche:

1. If the hips are down in the rings or lower, with no excessive arch, the skill should be evaluated as a maltese.

2. If the hips are at the top of the rings or higher, the skill should be evaluated as a planche.

3. If in doubt, the judge should evaluate the skill as a planche.

Why? In Atlanta, Marcos expected the maltese cross to be with the gymnast's body at the bottom of the rings with a noticeable arm spread . Anything a few inches higher than this position was evaluated as a planche.

For example, in the USA we have evaluated back uprise maltese to bail to back uprise maltese as E+ E even if the gymnast was a little high in the maltese positions. Several gymnasts performed that


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Men.s Judging

sequence at Atlanta, and Marcos awarded only D + D (with deductions), which surprised us. He said they were p lanches.

For poor positions, or for gymnas ts who attempt to get higher values by

1. Body angle (heels to shoulders should be horizontal): a. Body angle 1-15 degrees above OR below: 0.1 b. Body angle 16-30 degrees: 0.2 c. Body angle 31-45 degrees : 0.4 d. Body angle> 45 degrees: 0.4, No value

2. Arm position: a. Insufficient arm spread in maltese: b. No arm spread in maltese: c. Touching/ leaning on ri ngs with forearms:

3. Excessive arch in lower back:

0.1 0.2 0.1 or 0.2 0.1 or 0.2

Note 1: In Atlanta, Julio Marcos counted the hold time closely for all strength parts and deducted accordingly. Some of our gymnas ts in the USA seem as though they' re in a hurry on the rings. We need our gymnasts to hold all streng th parts for a solid two seconds or a little more. Remember, our ninth place finish at Sabai would have been seventh w ith just a couple m ore tenths of a point!

Note 2: Many gYl1masts a ttempt to get cOlmection bonus for m altese, bail to back uprise maltese . This has been discussed a t some length in the USA. If from the first maltese the gYI1mast simply does a forward roll through an inverted hang, then (sometimes quickly) casts to a back uprise maltese, the malteses should not be cOlmected. If, however, from the firs t m altese the gymnast does m ore of a bail ac tion that does not pass through an inverted hang, the malteses should be connected .

Note 3: What should a judge do if a gymnast does a back uprise maltese, but swings up a little too high then lowers to the

. maltese? If the judge evaluates the initial support position out of the swing as a planche position w ith no hold before the gymnast lowers into the maltese, the judge should give A credit for the back uprise and D credit for the maltese.

Note 4: The s tandards and deductions above for malteses are pretty strict.

Once again, our interpreta tions must challenge our gymnasts to ach ieve the bes t possible positions . The bottom line for our gymnasts is that they must do these skills properly, in the correct position, and for the right amount of time. If we give international judges a chance to interpret difficulty and the corresponding bonus a t a lower value, some w ill. If a few judges take the low road, it will certainly affect the average scores for our gymnasts.

Recommendations on a few Swing Parts At the IBM Atlanta International Gymnastics Invita tional,

Marcos called our a ttention to some swing skills, in addition to the strength skills noted above, that he thought gYI1masts were doing poorly a t the Sabai World Championships. We recommend following the guidelines below since it seems almost certain that Marcos w ill discuss these specific skills w ith the rings panel a t the Olympic Games in Atlanta.

1. Li Ning - The Code lis ts the Li N ing 2 as a D performed from support to support w ith the shoulders inlocated through the bottom. However, if the skill is done w ith the gymnast dislocated through the bottom, it w ill only receive B+ B (tip over backwards, dislocate to front uprise). Further, if the gymnast tips over backwards, is dislocated through the bottom, and then simply does a feIge, it wo uld onl y be ra ted as a B+A.

2. Tsukahara stretched - The Code says, "Double salta backward stretched or stretched/ piked or piked / stretched with 1/1 turn." Marcos w anted to see a clea r layout position a t some point during the skill. While we have tended to give D credit for this dism ount performed w ith a slight p ike throughout (with maybe a .1 deduction for pike), Marcos awarded only C credit unless it showed a distinct layout a t some point in the skill.

3. Guczoghy - The Guczoghy must finish in a stretched dislocate position. Marcos deducted for a low and unstretched position.

4. Pull to inverted hang - In the USA we have been ded ucting for bent arm pulls at the beginning of the compulsory. Marcos deducted for ben t arm pulls a t the begimling of optional routines, as well.

Summary In some ways, rings has become a key event for gymnasts

and teams both nationally and internationally . Why? Because the value and bonus given to many skills depends on execution . Officials, therefore, must make many close judgment calls that can have a major impact on difficulty and bonus evaluations. For example, one judge may give a gymnast E+ E for back uprise maltese to bail back uprise maltese, for .6 in bonus. Another judge m ay give the same gymnast D and D (unconnected) for back uprise planche to roll forward through inverted hang to cast back uprise planche, for only .2 in bonus, obviously a huge difference .

We could establish easier standards for our gymnasts, and in some meets we might ac tually get away w ith it. But, ultimately, easier rules w ill make our gymnasts vulnerable to unfavorable panels internationally . It seems obvious to us that we need to apply stringent s tandards to our gymnas ts. Only perfect or close to perfect positions w ill take away, a t least to some ex tent, the ability of unfavorable interna tional panels to manipulate our gymnasts' scores dO\,vnward.

We w ill never totally get rid of the gray areas in judging rings. However, the recommendations above at least give judges specific body positions to look for, and we believe these positions blend the Code requirements and what our gymnastics sense tells us. In many cases, the recommendations are close to w hat we have alread y been doing, while in other cases, the m altese for example, these guidelines are a little tougher. While the recommenda tions caml0t eliminate the judgment calls, they may bring some judges and coaches closer together on what we are trying to achieve with our national team members.

John Scheer MABL 250

Phone: (402) 472-1704 FA X: (402) 472-8317

Universit!J a/Nebraska-Lincoln Internet: heer@ul1 /in/o.unl. edu


Preschool

PLACING CHILDREN IN ABILITY APPROPRIATE GROUPS

Jeff LuBa

President, Fun & Fit G!Jll'lnnstics Centers

O ne of the most important decisions a gymnas tics professional can make when enrolling a student in a class is deciding w hich class w ill p rovide the best learning environment for the child. Far too often th is

decision is left up to the parent, based on what w ill be the m ost convenient day and time for them. While convenience is an understandable criteria for class selection, placement in the w rong class may cause the ch ild to lose interest and drop out of class, sacrificing what could have been a long and successful gymnastics experience.

Young children placed into groups where the other participants are stronger and more ad vanced will almost surely experience a sense of inadequacy or fa ilure in not being able to succeed or keep up . Because young children are unaware that they may be less experienced than another child, their self-esteem could suffer. As we all know, the development of healthy self-esteem is crucial in the developm ent of a healthy individual.

Children who are en rolled in classes where others are weaker and less experienced will often become bored and lose interes t. Teachers will be burdened to create separate challenges fo r these s tudents an d, in essence, have to direct two different levels in one class . This is frus tra ting and exhausting for the teacher. Eventually, the situation could possibly result in someone dropping out or the class being split.

Placing the s tudents in peer classes is an important process that requires the gymnastics professional to acquire information on the student' s abilities prior to the enrollment. There are two ways to get this information:

1. Su bjectively - The teacher works w ith the student, usually in a trial class. Based on the teacher's feelings and experience w ith the child in this trial lesson, the teacher w ill recommend the trial class or another class .

2. Obj ectively - The teacher gathers specific data on the student that w ill be measured agains t the sam e data on the other students in the program to find a good class match. Usually the data will include measurements of strength, flexibility, balance, previously learned skills, e tc.

From m y experience, a combina tion of these two methods works bes t. Beginning with an appointment for an objective aptitude evaluation and ending w ith a recommendation fo r an ability appropria te class to try prior to enrollment. This proced ure helps to ensure that the trial lesson is in a class that best ma tches the abilities of the child, AND gives the instructor the opportunity to see how the child works with the rest of the exis ting class.

While many gymnastics program s provide opportunities for trial lessons, w ithout first determining the child's abilities, you

may be setting the child up for a nega tive trial experience (their fi rst impression of your program and often of gymnastics).

Taking the time to perform an evaluation for children prior to enrollment takes time, bu t the results can create far greater success and a m ore positive first impression for the parents and students .

Of course, educating the parents to value the careful placement of their ch ild over and above the m ost convenient class is an importan t part of the enrollment p rocess . For this reason I suggest that a schedule of classes not be prov ided to parents, but instead the business litera ture focus on the benefits of the program and encourages the parents to call for the evaluation appointment. Once the prospec tive parent and child experience the fac ility and the evaluation, they can be ad vised on the importance of proper peer grouping. In essence, this is adding value to their gymnastics inves tment.

The author Jeff Lulla is the President of Fun & Fit Gymn astics. He is on the USA Gymnastics National Preschool Committee and is a National Safety Certifier. His "Curriculum Poster Reward System" and training videos are licensed for use in gym clubs across America. For more information call Jeff at 800-800-3162.

Ma rch 1996 T ECHN IQ UE

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Kinder Accreditation for Teachers

KAT QUESTIONS ANDANsWERS

Jennifer Gallahue Lee, Educational Development Coordinator

Q "Iwant to register fora KA TWorkshop, but I haven't completed the prerequisites yet. Can I still register?"

A Yes. You may register for the Workshop, but you must complete all the prerequisites PRIOR to attending the Workshop. The KAT prerequisites are as follows:

You must be at least 16-years-old to attend the Workshop

Take and pass the Rookie Coaches Guide test

Observe four preschool classes (a maximum of two classes at your home gym) and complete an Observation Form for each.

Q ''I'm an experienced coach with 10 years teaching preschool gymnastics . Can I grandparen t through KAT?"

A You cannot grandparent through KAT, but the option of grandparenting through four observation hours is available to those who qualify. USAG requires at least five years of teaching preschool gymnastics in order to grandparent. If you qualify for grandparenting, send your resume to "USA Gymnastics, KAT Program" for approval.

Q "Do I need to study any materials prior to attending the Workshop? "

A Yes. Upon registration, the KAT Workbook will be sent to you. Please take the time to read through the chapters and work through the exercises at the end of each chapter. This w ill help you to be better prepared for the workshop.

During the workshop, the KAT Clinician will often refer to the workbook. Please make sure you have a pen or a pencil and extra paper to take notes.

Q "Why should I getmy KA Twhen itisn't required by LlSA Gymnastics?"

A Following are just a few of the reasons:

Enhances the status and credibility of preschool gymnastics programs.

Establishes requirements for accreditation to help identify competent preschool teachers.

Provides appropriate information regarding preschool gymnastics teaching.

Standardizes preschool gymnastics teaching throughout the United States.

Provides resources, instructional materials, and assistance to preschool teachers.

Q "Can my club host a KAT Workshop? "

A Yes. If your club is interested hosting a KAT Workshop, contact Jennifer Gallahue Lee (317-237-5050 ext. 237) at USA Gymnastics. In order for a club to host a KAT Workshop, they

must guarantee that they have at least 12 individuals that will a ttend. Your gym receives two complimentary registrations (up to a $320 value) for hosting a KAT Workshop. However, USA Gymnastics must receive at least 12 registrations (not including your two complimentary attendees) in order to conduct the workshop. The workshop may be canceled if there are less than 12 registrants.

Q "What do I get for completing my Level I KAT? "

A Upon successful completion of the Level I KAT, each person will receive an official KAT card and certificate and a 3-year subscription of the USA Gymnastics Kinder Connection newsletter. Additionally, a press release w ill be sent from USA Gymnastics National Office to your local newspaper announcing your accomplishment of completing of Level I KA T.

Q "Does my Level I KAT expire?"

A Yes. Each KAT card and certificate will have the participant's name and expiration date (expires three years from the date of the workshop). A discount will be allowed if you attend a Level I KAT or Level II KAT workshop prior to the expiration on your card. If validation lapses, no discount will be issued.

A Step-By-Step Guide to Levell KAT Step 1 Register for a workshop (see workshop schedule on page

38).

Step 2 Call USAG Merchandise (1-800-487-2496) to order the Rookie Coaches Gymnastics Guide. Complete the test which is enclosed in the book and mail it along with a $5 processing fee to USA Gymnastics .

Step 3 Make eight copies of the KAT Observation Form on page 37. To complete the prerequisites, complete four Observation Forms by observing preschool classes in your area (a maximum of two from your home gym). Send the completed forms to USA Gymnastics.

Step 4 Read and complete the chapter reviews in the KAT Workbook. Note: The Workbook will be sent to you upon registration.

Step 5 Attend KAT Workshop and take exam.

Step 6 Complete and mail remaining requirements to USA Gymnastics- 4 Observation Forms, and copies of CPR (infant/ child) and Basic First Aid cards.


Kinder Accreditation for Teachers

LEVEL I KAT OBSERVATION FORM KAT Observation Steps

1, Contact club (let the teacher know you are completing your KAT observations)

2, Set-up a time to meet with the teacher prior to start of class

3, Observe class/complete observation form 4, Allow teacher to review your observation form and sign 5, It is advisable to send a thank you note to the teacher

observed NOTE: You can only observe two classes at your gym. It is

advisable that you also observe various age level classes,

Name ______________________________________ __

Social Security No, __ - __ - __ USAG No, ________ _

Mailing Address ______________________________ _

City __________ State ____ Zip ______ _

Day Ph: ( __ ) __ - __ Night: ( __ ) __ - __

Birthdate: _ / _ / _

Observation No (circle), 12345678

Ages (circle) : crawlers walkers 2-yr 3-yr 4-yr 5-yr

Ratio = ___ Students / _ Teacher(s)

Club Observed ________________________________ _

Address __________________________________ __

City _______ Phone: ( __ ) __ - __ _

Teacher Observed ______________________________ _

Teacher's Signature

Lesson Plan

Objectives ____________________________________ _

Warm-up Components

Skills introduced & practiced

Activity (name & explain)

Theme

Props

Music

Games

Closing

Skills practiced

Students

Comments and observations regarding student's personality characteristics (i,e, shy, aggressive), their behavior patterns, and social interaction,

Teacher

What communication methods were particularly effective (i.e, verbal, demonstration)?

What teaching style was used (i.e, animated, enthusiastic, authoritative)?

Safety

General Observations (Facil ity & equipment)

Class Management

Class organization- Were the students organized in a manner in which learning was facilitated? How?

Time management-Was there enough time allotted for each part of the lesson (i.e , warm-up, skills)? List time frame,

Discipline-What types of discipline tactics were used (i,e, time out, warnings)?


i 0 ~~ 38

Kinder Accreditation for Teachers ,. LEVEL I KAT WORKSHOPSCURRENT SCHEDULE I April 13-14 Warrenville, Ill. Midwest Academy of September 13-14 San Jose, Calif. Region I Congress

Gymnastics September 20-22 Seattle, Wa. Region II Congress

April 27-28 Reno, ev. Gym Nevada Sep tember 28-29 Buffalo Grove, Ill. Buffalo Grove Gym. May 4-5 Dyer, Ind. Patti's All-American

Gymnastics Center October 11-13 TBD Region VIII Congress

May 18-19 Chappaqua, N.Y. World Cup Gymnastics October 11-13 Williamsburg, Vir. Region VII Congress

October 24-27 Boxboro, Mass. Region VI Congress May 31-June 1 Houston, TX Texas Summer Meeting

June 1-2 Urbandale, Iowa Urbandale Dance Acad. Workbook will be sent prior to workshop.

Accreditation is valid for three years. June 26-30 Boston, Mass. National Congress Grandparenting 4 hours of observation is available. Must have

August 9-11 TBD Region IV Congress at least 5 years preschool gYl1mas tics teaching experience-

August 23-25 Battle Creek, Mich. Region V Congress send reSUI1l.e with regis tration.

For more information, contact J e!U1ifer Gallahue Lee at 317-237-September 6-9 Austin, Texas GAT 5050 extension 237.

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

KAT REGISTRATION FORM Minimum age for KAT is 16 years

Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___

Soc. Sec. # ____________________________________________________________ __ Birthdate ________________________ ___

Address ________________________________________________ ___

City _______________________ State ____________ __ Zip ___________ _

Telephone (Day) _____________________ (Night) __________________ _

Course Location _________________________________________________________________ Date ______________________ _

Organization Represented __________________________________ _ Job Title ________________ _

Local Newspaper _____________________________________________ Fax _________________________________________ _

Current USAG Pro. # _______________________ (required for discount)

Prereq uisi tes

___ Rookie Coaches Guide Test/ or PDP Level I

--- Four hours observation/ or Grandparent (via resume)

Regis tration __ $140 pro member

-- $160 non-member

Form of Payment: Check Visa Mastercard ___ Am. Express Discover

Name on Card ____________________________________________ _ umber ____________________ ~======_ ____ _ Expiration Date _________________________________ Signature __________________________________________________ _

Please make checks payable to USA Gymnastics KAT Workshop.

Mail Registration Form and Payment to : USA Gymnastics KAT, Pan American Plaza, 201 South Capitol Ave. Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225


Rhythmic Gymnastics

r "Get It Going"

Introduce Rhythmic Gymnastics

to Your Program

The USA Gynmastics Gel II Going Grant program is designed to promote the addition of rhythmic gymnastics classes to club, school, YMCA, or Park District gymnastics programs who have had little or no rhy~bmic programming in the pas t.

Twenty people (through application) will each receive a grant equivalent of $350 to attend a special Rhythmic Gymnastics Introductory Workshop at the 1996 Congress in Boston.

Grant recipients will receive from USA Gymnastics v Congress Registration

V Two nights of housing (1 /2 double)

V Two days per diem

V One full set of Level 1- 4 Rhythmic Curriculum materials (includes video, book, and music cassette)

Introductory Workshop The Rhythmic Gynmastics Introductory Workshop is an eight

hour curriculum. The Workshop begins at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 28, and ends on Sunday, June 29, at 3:00 p.m. and includes:

V Introduction to Rhythmic Gymnastics

V Rhythmic Levell and 2 Classes

V Basic Group Activities

V Class Plmming

V Rhythmic Level 3 and 4 Classes

V Preschool Rhythmic Gymnastics

V Training Level 5/6 Rhythmic Gymnasts

V One additional Rhythmic Session of Choice

Grant Application Form In an effort to encourage new rhythmic gymnastics program.5,

USA Gymnastics Announces the Gel II Going grant program.

The following criteria must be met for consideration as a Gel II Going grant wilmer:

Appl icants must be employed by a gymnastics club, YMCA, or Park District program.

Applicants must attend eight hours of designated Congress sessions plus elective sessions.

Applicants w ill be encouraged to initiate rhythmic classes in the Fall of 1996.

Applicants must submit acompleted grant application which includes signa ture of current employer.

Former grant recipients are ineligible.

Procedure for application 1. Complete the application form and return to USA Gym.nastics

postmarked by March 22, 1996.

2. Complete the separate registration for Congress (in the February issue of Technique magazine) if you plan to attend regardless of your acceptance into the Gel II Going program.

3. If you have already registered and are accepted into the Gel II Going program, you w ill be reimbursed for your Congress registration.

4. Grant w ilmers w ill be notified by mail on April 15, 1996.

5. Grant applicants are responsible for their own hotel arrangements. Grant winners w ill be reimbursed after submitting a copy of their receipts .

------------------1 IIGet It Goingll Grant Application form Name of Appl icant ___________ Age __ _

N ame of school/club program _________ __ _

Title ____________________ _

Address ___________________ _

City _________ State ____ Zip _ _ __ _

Day phone ___ ____ Night phone ____ __ _

Planned start date of rhythmic gymnastics program _____ _

Signature of employer _______________ _

Signature of applicant _ _________ _____ _

Attach a letter of intent outlining, 1) professional gymnastics/ dance background, and 2) statement describing why you are interested in receiving this grant.

Return to: Rhythmic Gymnastics - Get It Going!, USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol, India- I napolis, IN 46225. L __________________ ~


Comments from the 199 S Get It Going

Grant Winners Thank you for the great opportunity this grant provided. I'm so excited to start teaching! - Jennifer Stempien, Joliet, Ill.

Thanks again for the chance to get involved in rhythmic gymnastics. I am already adding elements to my preschool classes and am activelyplanning classes for the older kids. We should have things going by October. - Susan Wittkop, LaJolla, Calif.

Can 't wait to Get It Going! -Debbie Schmitt, Wake Forest, N.C.

We have already started four rhythmic classes, introduced it to artistic teams, developed a demonstration rhythmic group, and incorporated it in our preschool program. We are having a blast! - LuAnnNix, Tuscaloosa, Ala.

I am motivated to continue learning and sharing with young girls. I appreciate all the work that wen t into the instructor's manualshaving written progressions is very helpful to beginners like me. - Jackie Williams, Portland, Org.

I especially enjoyed practicing in my hotel room! - Janet Skaggs, Dothan, Ala. (artistic Level 10 judge)

Rhythmic Gymnastics

IfI?t WFARS. CUSIOM GYMNASilC APPARfl

liiii)SAREW HANDS ON FIRE

SiII8:1 i II] ~Ii "YOU ~_E. ~

GYMNAST GFB-4 - DEEP PURPLE.

YELLOW. JADE, BLACK INK

JUST HAfTA fAT JUST MAfTA WOHK JUST IIAFTA GO TO SCHOOL

FF-2 - GREY. TERRA CODA . BLACK INK

GFB-5 - METALLIC GOLD. FUSCH IA. GREY. BLACK INK

GFB-2 - FOREST GREEN. SAND. BURGUNDY. BLACK INK

GFB-7 - TERRA CODA, BURGUNDY. SILVER. STORM BLUE. BLACK INK

GFB-8 - BURGUNDY, SAND. FOREST GREEN. BLACK INK

PRICES BASED ON 12-50 PIECE QUANTITY (CALL FOR QUANTITY PRICING)

ALL DESIGNS ARE FULL-FRONT PRINT AVAILABLE IN AS-AXXL

PRINTED ON HIGH QUALITY WHITE 100% FRUIT OF THE LOOM T-SHIRTS

ALSO AVAILABLE ON 9 OZ. 90/10 F.O.L. SWEATSHIRTS (CALL FOR PRICING)

ART WEARS ACCEPTS VISA. MASTERCARD, CHECK

SHOW YOUR TEAM UNITY CUSTOMIZE YOUR CLUB T-SHIRTS

CALL FOR DETAILS

1-800-235-9327 - - - - - CUT ANDMA7l'THiSPo"iifiONrOAoDRESS BELOW ffI?tV- - -

UNIT SIZES DESIGN ITEM PRICE aTY TOTAL WEARS~

100% WHITE T·SHIRT 58.50

100% WHITE T-SHIRT

100% WHITE T-SHIRT

100% WHITE T-SHIRT

WE PAY SHIPPING UPS GROUND SERVICE

ALLOW 3 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY

58.50

$8.50

S8.50

SUBTOTALCJ

NEB. RES TAX r---l ADD 6.5% ~

TOTALCJ

CLUB NAME ____________ _

CONTACT _____________ _

ADDRESS _____________ _

CITY.STATE.ZIP ___________ _

PHONE _____________ _

3630 SO. 144TH ST. OMAHA. NE

68144 402-697 -0240

1-800-235-9327

PAYMENT METHOD

o CHECK

o VISA o MASTERCARD

PLEASE PHONE IN CREDIT CARD ORDERS

D PLEASE SEND ME AN ART WEARS CUSTOM GYMNASTIC APPAREL

BROCHURE.

ItIUA GYMNASTICS

<:5> ~ I I

E§ - ~~ COACHES EDUCATION

"'"'--

c » C»

<0 • • • • • • • •• 0", .., '" ==0 • •• :z::: :z::: .........

I ~ • C» 2.

#4L o G) 2. E

Upon completion of this form send to: USA Gymnostics

201 S. Capitol Ave. Suite 300

Indianopons, IN 46225

Attn: PDP

T994

Coaches Education

LEVEL II EXPERIENCE VERIFICATION Name

SS#

Birthdate / -- / -- Age

Address

City State Zip

Phone (day) (night)

Safety Certification: o No o Yes exp. date __

PDP Amedication: 0 level 1 Completion dote ___ _

Job Description (please print or type)

I coach and/ or teach the following : «heck ollthot opply)

o Mom & Tot 0 Preschool o Cheerleading 0 Tumbling

Women: 0 levels 1-4 o levels 8-1 0

Men: 0 Class5-7 o Class 1-4

o Developmental

o levels5-7 o Elite

o Elite

Rhythmic 0 levels 1-4 0 levels 5-7 o levels 8-1 0 0 Elite

Do you actively coach at competitions? 0 No 0 Yes «heck all that apply)

If yes, list number per year.

o locol 0 State ____ _

o Regional 0 National ___ _

Additional information (certifications, courses completed, etc.) (please print or type)


References (other than your current employer)

One

Name

Position

Relationship

Address ______________ _

Phone

Two

Name ______________ __

Position ______________ _

Relationship ____________ _

Address ______________ _

Phone

Three

Name ______________ __

Position ______________ _

Relationship ____________ _

Address ______________ _

Phone

Employer's Verification

I, _______ , acknowledge that this information

is true and accurate for the period which the above listed coach has been

employed ____________ _

Signature ________ _ date ---

9

" A 41

I ., .A 42

Men's Gymnastics

1997-2000 JUNIOR OLYMPIC NATIONAL PROGRAM COACHES WORKSHOP

May 12 - 14, 1996 Tulsa, Okla.

The 1997-2000 Junior Olympic National Program Coaches Workshop w ill introd uce the new programs and new routines for the 1997-2000 quadrenium. This clinic will begin at the conclusion of the 1996 Junior Olympic Nationals being held in Tulsa, May 10-12. This w ill be the only National Workshop to present the new Junior Program materials to be held in 1996. The Workshop will cover: All aspects of the 1997-2000 Age Group Competition Program, all aspects of the 1997-2000 National Team Program, 1997-2000 FIG Code of Points update and overview, 1997-2000 coaching trends, and a presentation of the new boy's age group "Basic Conditioning Program."

Presenters will include: Ron Brant, Greg Corsiglia, Kelly Crumley, Tim Erwin, Ron Galimore, Ray Gura, Monte Kimes, Dennis McIntyre, Joe Stallone, Mas Watanabe, and Andy Zembower.

Plan now to attend this important Coaches Workshop Date: May 12-14, 1996

Site and Host Hotel:

Doubletree Downtown 616 West 7th Tulsa, OK 1-800-528-0444 $60/ quad - Mention

"].0. Nationals"

Airline: American Airlines 1-800-433-1790

Additional 5% off lowest applicable fare : mention J.O. Nationals

Cost: Pre-Registration: $150 Registration On-site: $180*

Includes: Age Group Competition Program Manual and Video, Nationa l Team

1997· 2000 JUNIOR OLYMPIC NATIONAL PROGRAM COACHES WORKSHOP May 12-14, 1996 - Tulsa, Okla.

Registration Form

Name _____________________ USAG Pro # ____ _

Mailing Address __________________________ _

City _______________ State _ ____ Zip Code ____ _

Home Phone ____________ Work Phone __________ _

Club/Program Name ________________________ _

Club/Program Address _______________________ _

City _______________ State _____ Zip Code ____ _

Affiliation: (circle all that apply) Coach Judge Gym Owner Administrator

Cost: Pre-Registration $150 Pre-registration ends April 15. Late Registration $180

Please include your check or money order to USA Gymnastics and send to:

Dennis McIntyre, USA Gymnastics 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225


Program Manual and Video (which includes Age Group Basic Conditioning Program), and all Workshop presentations and materials. *NOTE: On-site registrants may have program materials shipped at a later date pending on-site availablity. Additional copies of all materials w ill be available for purchase w hile supplies last. Program materials will be available for purchase from the USA Gymnastics Merchandise Department beginning June 1.

Registration:

Pre-Registration ends April 15th. To pre-register send the attached registration form along with a check or money order to USA Gymnastics:

Dennis McIntyre, USA Gymnastics

201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 For more information

call: 317-237-5050

Tentative Schedule: Sunday 5/12 -

TBD - Safety Certification Course

Evening: Early registration and Athlete Conditioning Seminar

Monday 5/13 -9:00 AM -- Registration

Morning Sessions -- Age Group Competition Program

Afternoon Sessions - National Team Program

Evening Sessions - FIG Code of Points

Tuesday 5/14-Morning Sessions - Age Group Program and Routines

Afternoon - Depart

Women's Minutes

ELII'E PROGRAM COMMII'I'EE Fort Worth, TX

March 2-3, 1996 Meeting called to order 8:30 am

Roll Call: Region I David McCreary Region II Brad Loan Region III Tom Forster Region IV Jim Chudy Region V Mary Lee Tracy Region VI Byron Knox Region VII Gary Anderson Region VIII Ray Gnat EPCC Roe Kreutzer JOPC Tom Koll WABC Kathy Feldmann ETC Audrey Schweyer WPD Kathy Kelly EPM Gary Warren

I. Minutes Motion to appwve the minutes fwm the last meeting and conference calls as published.

Motion - James Chudy Second - Mary Lee Tracy PASSED

II. Uneven Bar Specifications Discussion on increaSing the spread on uneven bars beyond FIG specifications for Jr. ationals. Mo tion that JI. National Elite athletes be pel milled to extend the Bal~ to the manttfactttle,'g specs, at all competitions.

Motion: D. McCreary Second: B. Loan MOTION WITHDRAWN After lengthy discussion and based upon impute from Jackie Fie, DM withdrew the motion and discussion was tabled so as to gain further information from FIG.

III. National Elite Testing Motion that changes to the National Elite Testing (as indicated on Errata following these minutes) be effective immediately.

<.

Universal Cheerleaders flssociation flllSlar Cheerleading Camps

LEARN FROM THE BEST!

Motion - M. L. Tracy Second - R. Gnat PASSED

IV. TOPs Program Motion that the Medicine Ball throw be eliminated at Regional and National Testing.

Motion - R. Gnat Second - J. Chudy PASSED

G. Warren reviewed the 1996 TOP calendar. Regional Testing (June-July, 1996 @vari-

ous Regional Sites) National Tes ting (Oct. 3-6, 1996 @ Colo-

rado Springs, CO - USOTC) National Camp (Dec. 5-8, 1996 @Tulsa,

OK - Tulsa World of Gymnastics) G. Warren also stated that an Ad Hoc Committee w ill be established to review the T.O.P. This committee will consist of two Elite Committee members and at least one National Staff member and will convene within the next two months.

V. Four·year Plan K. Kelly reviewed the four year calendar with the committee. The committee was given the National and International schedule of events for the next four years as it stands now . The committee expressed concern about negotiations being made with Marketing and TV concerns and the commitments being established of National Team athletes without the committee's input.

A very se lect group of UCA instructors will be teaching you and your A ll Star squad how to transition from a cheer to a dance, how to incorporate stunts and tumbling to music, and how to really entertain your audience! A special emphasis will be given to synchronization, motion techniques, stunt transit ions, and visual effects. .-.... ElIr'

1996 UCR RllSlar Cheer1eading Camp Locations and Dales FLORlOH ILLinOIS miSSOURI TDlIlJ:SSrE BARRY UNIVERSITY Miami Shores, Florida June 4-7

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA Jacksonville, Floricla July 9-12

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA Sarasota, Floricla June 25-28

GEORGJH EMORY UNIVERSITY Atlanta, Georgia June 29-July 2

NORTHERN ILLINOIS CENTRAL MISSOURI UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY STATE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS Dekalb, Illinois Warrensburg, Missouri Memphis, Tennessee July 11-14 July 22-25 July 19-22

HEnTUCHV EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY Richmond, Kentucky June 14-17

LOu/SJRnH LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY Ruston, Louisiana June 25 -28

nORTH CHROLlnH UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA-CHARLOTTE Charlotte, orth Carolina July 12-15

OHLHHomH UNIVERSITY OF TULSA Tulsa, Oklahoma July 26-29

TEHflS SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY Huntsville, Texas June 28-July 1

SOUTHWEST TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY San Marcos, Texas June 29-July 2

TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY

For more informauon. calIfoll free I-800 -2 ~8 -02 8 6 Denton, Texas July 18-21 ~ualifv for the national HII Star Cheerleading

Championship nationallv teleVised on esp"ll


I

" A. 44

Recommendation to the National office that Women's Program be consulted in negotiations with Marketing and Television concerns when commitments of Women's National Team Athletes are being made. The purpose being to assure that the goals of the Women's Program are represented.

Motion - G. Anderson Second - T. Forster PASSED

Motion that the proposed 4 year calendar be accepted as presented.

Motion - T. Forster Second - D. McCreary PASSED

VI. Classics/Gym Festival Discussion involved the format of the competition. The fo llowing recommenda tions were made. Motion that if the number of athletes at any level at the Classic Meet exceed the maximum number as listed in the Rules and Policies, a Capitol Cup format may be used instead of seeding.

Motion - G. Anderson Second - B. Knox PASSED

Motion that, if necessary, the Elite Regional (May 10-11) be allowed as a qualifying meetfor the International Junior and Senior athletes as well as the National Level Elites. (All International athletes MUST pre-register with the National office if they are planning on competing in the May 10-11 regional). Registration MUST be sent by May 1.

Motion - M. L. Tracy Second - T. Forster PASSED

VII. Judges The committee w ill be sent a list of all Brevet/ Elite Judges in order to make recommendations for the 1996 Judges' Course for recertification in the next quadrennium.

VIII. USA Championships Format for Quadrennium

Motion to acceptthe proposaJforthe 1997 Championships of the USA format which includes Junior and Senior Age Divisions.

Motion - M.L. Tracy Second - R. Gnat PASSED

Day One Optionals (50 %) - Deter-mine Individual Event Winners Day Two Rest Day Three Optionals (50%) - Deter-mine All Around and Team

IX. Congress Sessions Committee w ill be in attendance at the 1996 Congress. Members w ill be slotted into Technical Committee Sessions wher needed. K. Kelly wi ll take recommendations to S. Whitlock.

D. McCreary - Periodization M.L. Tracy - Workout Structure G. Anderson - Ideal Competitive Format

X • Subcommittees Subcommittees were formed within the committee for review of the 1997 Rules and Policies.

Women's Minutes

M.L. Tracy, T. Forster,G.Anderson, and]. Chudy will review the Interna tional Level. R. Gnat, D. McCreary, B. Knox, and B. Loan wi ll review the National Level.

These subcommitteees w ill report to the office two weeks prior to the U.s. Classic for discussion at the U.s. Classic.

XI. Committee f~ames Recommendation to the WPC that the current "Elite Ad Hoc Committee" be renamed as the "International Elite Program Committee." Also, the current "Elite Program Committee" to be renamed as the "National Elite Program Committee"

Motion - G. Anderson Second - T. Forster PASSED

Meeting Adjourned Sunday, March 3 12:45 pm

ERRATA SHEET - NATIONAL ELITE TESTING PROGRAM

Effective 3/1/96

VAULT l-(text change) Vault:

- Handspring entry preflight to Vertical Lift with stretched body - Post flight - must maintain a stretched body throughout

Vault Deduction - 2nd Flight - Handsprings Delete:

Failure to arrive in vertical ( ... ) Add:

Insufficient vertical rise up to 1.0 Failure to maintain straight

body linet throughout entire flight up to 1.0

Uneven Bars-(Text changes) 4) Giant circle backward with 1/2 (180 de

grees) turn in handstand phase. (delete remaining text)

Uneven Bar Deductions: Add :

Adding an element to facilitate performance of following element 1.0

Complete omission of an element 1.0 Failure to complete an element as

described in the text 0.60' *( + applicable execution and amplitude deductions)

Working the Bars out of FIG specifications 0.30

Balance Beam Add:

Adding an element to facilitate performance of following element 1.0

Complete omission of an element 1.0

Failure to complete an element as described in the text 0.60 • * (+ applicable execution and amplitude deductions)


FlicFlac (series) Add :

#7. Pause between Flic Flacs 0.30 Stop between Flic Flacs 0.50

Floor Exercise Add:

Adding an element to facilitate performance of following element 1.0 Complete omission of an element 1.0 Failure to complete an element as described in the text 0.60 • * (+ applicableexecutionandmplitude deductions)

Floor Acro Add:

Sequences and tumbling passes not performed in the order listed 0.30

Rhythmic Minutes

)

RHYTHMIC PROGRAM COMMITTEE

February 17, 1996

I. Members present: Andrea Schmid Lana Lashoff Jan Exner Maureen Broderick Karyn Glover Nora Campbell Guest Absent:

II. Report - N. Campbell

FIG Representative Coaches Representative Coaches Representative Judges Representative Athletes representative Rhythmic Program Director Norma Zabka Candace Feinberg, Vice President

Campbell reported on the direc tion of the following: 1996 budget, McDonald's International Gymnastics Competition, USA Gymnas tics Strategic Plan, USA Group parents meeting, USA Group Schedule, Get It Going Programs, High School Federation meeting, and the Olympic Games volunteer sta tus.

III. Report - A. Schmid Schmid briefly discussed proposed FIG rule changes in the new quadrennium and announced that she w ill give a full report of the new rules for coaches and judges at the June USA Gymnas tics Congress.

'I. 1996 National Championships Seniors

Day 1 Competition I rules Day 2 Competition III rules Day 3 Competition III rules

Juniors Junior rules Junior rules + 2 B' s Junior rules + 2 B's

Campbell explained the technical organiza tion for the 1996 Championships and how it w ill differ from the pas t because of the use of the Olympic scoring system. A discussion was held about w ays of changing the format for the 1997 Championships so that the competition days would not be so long. This will be a major agenda item at the next meeting.

V. Rhythmic World Championship Sport Science Symposium Prior to the World Championships in Budapest, a rhythmic sport science symposium, sponsored by the Hungarian UniverSity of Physical Education w ill be held. Presenters for the USA w ill be Dr. Gloria Balogue, Dr. Dan Benardot, Dr. Mark Hutchinson, and Linda Tremain, ACT.

VI. 1997·2000 Event Plan Campbell presented the proposed dates for all Rhythmic Events fo r the next fou r years. The plan was approved in principle pending some further confirmations of schedule. Once final approval is made, rhythmiC professional members w ill be sent the schedule and event bid requests. The intent is to have a majority of event sites placed before the beginning of the next quadrennium.

VII. Board of Directors Election Applications/Nominations are now being received for the two rhythmic at-large positions on the Board of Directors. The Rhythmic Program Committee w ill be charged w ith identifying the final slate of six based upon the nominations received .

VIII. Continental Judging Course The US will submit a proposal to the FIG to host a course in 1997. Because 'here will be no option to hold a course in the first three months, special :aining courses on the new rules w ill be given fo r the judges who are

assigned to the Eas t/ West Open and National Championships prior to these events. Campbell and Schmid w ill try to identify the most appropriate time for the Continental Certifica tion course.

IX. International Assignments The following 1996 International Assignments were made: 3/5 - McDonald's International Gymnas tics Competition

Davis, Illy 3/13-3/17 - Sydney, Australia

Scharringhaussen, McCa rgo Davidovich, Anguelova

3/16-3/17 - Kalamata, Greece Davis, Lacuesta Exner, Lashoff, Broderick*

4/12-4/14 - Thiais, France Illy, Higa Lashoff, Nyemcsik*

4/12-4/14 - Portimao, Portugal Jeffress, Shoemaker Yakhimovich, CampbeJl*

4/ 26-4/28 - DTB, Germany Davis, Lacuesta Exner*, Lashoff

5/3-5/5 - Sophia, Bulgaria Davis, Lacuesta Exner, Chris tie*

5/10-5/12 - Corbeil, France Illy, Higa Lashoff, Litva*

5/18 - Calais, France USA Group Greathouse*

6/ 20-6/ 23 - Budapest, World Championships USA Group Greathouse*

6/ 25-6/26 - Boston, Olympic Trials Top 8 Seniors from Championships

12/3 - PAGU Junior Gymnastics Championships 3 Juniors

*Judges determined by Judges Selection Committee 2/23, 1996

Submitted: No ra Campbell, February 26, 1996


I ., A 45

Calendar

Dote Doys Discipline Event Locotion Contoct Phone

APRIL 1996 4 4 MW International Cup 1996 Porto Alegre BRA 6 1 MW Budget Rent a Car Gymnastics Invitational (USA Vs. France) Miami, FL Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 13 W NCAA Regional Meets Various 13 M NCAA Regional Meets Various 13 2 W Level 10 Regionals Various 13 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Warrenville, IL Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 15 6 MW World Championships - Ij E/F Son Juan, PUR Gory Alexander 317-237-5050

i 18 3 MW USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships Seattle Pacific Univ. Laurel Tindall 206-281-2883

" 20 2 R J.D. Championships Maryland Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 21 W USA Gymnastics Nat'llnvitational Tournament Cope Girardeau, MO Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050

~~ 21 1 MW Broadcast of Budget Rent a Car Gymnastics Invitational 1 :00-3:00 p.m. (EST) CBS Sports 46 25 3 W NCAA Notional Championships (Univ. of Alabama) Tuscaloosa, AL

26 2 M NCAA Championships Stanford, CA 27 2 W Elite Regionals Various Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 27 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Reno, NV Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050

MAY 1996 2 4 W J.D. Nationals (Jr. and Sr.) Duluth, GA Connie Moloney 317-237-5050 3 3 MWR USA Gymnastics Executive Committee Meeting Indianapolis, IN Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 3 3 MW Romainian International Gymnastics Tournament Ploiesti, ROM 4 2 R Eastern Open Macon, GA Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 4 2 MWR USAG Boord of Directors Meeting Indianapolis, IN Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 4 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Dyer, IN Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 10 3 M J.O. Championships Tulsa, OK Dennis Mcintyre 317-237-5050 11 2 R Western Open Seattle, WA Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 12 3 M J.O. Not. Competitive Prog. Workshop Tulsa, OK Dennis Mcintyre 317-237-5050 16 4 W U.S. Classic Nationals - at USOTC Colo. Spgs. CO Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 16 2 W Notional Gymnastics Festival- at USOTC Colo. Spgs. CO Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 lB 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Chappaqua, NY Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-505t 31 3 R USA Gymnastics Rhythmic Notional Championships Athens, GA Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 31 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Houston, TX Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050

JUNE 1996 1 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Urbondale, Iowa Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 2 1 MWR PDP Levell Video Clinic (1 :00-5:00 p.m.) Decatur, GA Chris Colvert 404-377-0241 5 4 MW Coca-Colo Notional Championships Knoxville, TN Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 8 1 Broadcast of Coco-Colo Nat'l Championships 4:00-6:00 p.m. (EST) NBC Sports 9 1 Broadcast of Coco-Colo Nat'l Championships 3:00-4:00 p.m. (EST) NBC Sports 18 2 M Elite Qualifiers Various Ron Galimore 317-237-5050 21 3 R Rhythmic World Championships Budapest, HUN Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 25 2 R U.S. Rhythmic Olympic Trials Boston, MA Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 27 4 MW U.S. Artistic Olympic Trials Boston, MA Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 27 4 MWR USA Gymnastics Notional Congress Boston, MA Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 27 4 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Boston, MA Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 29 1 Broadcast of U.S. Olympic Trials 4:00-6:00 p.m. (EST) NBC Sports 30 1 Broadcast of U.S. Olympic Trials 2:00-3:00 p.m. (EST) NBC Sports 29 1 W Broadcast of U.S. Olympic Trials (LIVE) 7:00-9:00 p.m. (EST) NBC Sports

JULY 1996 13 1 M Pre-Olympic Exhibition Greensboro, NC Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 13 5 MWR FIG Congress Atlanta, GA Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 20 11 MW Gomes of the XXVlth Olympiad Atlanta, GA Gory Alexander 317-237-5050

AUGUST 1996 1 4 R Gomes of the XXXVlth Olympiad Atlanta, GA Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 9 3 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Region IV Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 9 3 MW Region IV Congress TBD George Grainger 414-375-0430 23 3 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Bottle Creek, MI Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 23 3 MW Region V Congress Bottle Creek, MI Cindy Scharnes 616-963-5830 TBD MWR Post Olympic Tour TBA Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050

SEPTEMBER 1 996 6 4 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Austin, TX Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317-237-5050 6 4 MW GAT (Congress) Austin, TX Cheryl Jarrett 512-251-2439 13 2 MWR Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) Workshop Son Jose, CA Jennifer Gallahue Lee 317- 237-5050


Safety Certification

SAFETY CERTIFICATION COURSES Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18 years

APRIL Penfield, NY; 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Gymn. Trng. Ctr. af Rochester; 2051 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd; 14526 Course Dir: Sara Jane Clifford 716-381-8840 or 716-388-8686

Westerville, OH; 3:30-7:30 p.m. Buckeye Gymnastics loco I Contact: Dave Holcomb 614-895-1611 Course Dir: Bobbi Montanori 614- 777-5057 or 614-457-1279

Decatur, GA ; 1 :00-5:00 p.m. Course Dir: Chris Calvert 404-377-0241

lincoln, NE; 2:00-6:00p.m. University of Nebraska; Mobellee Hall (room to be determined) 14th & Vine; 68583 locol conlact: Cathy Christie 402-438-1614 Course Dir: David Mickelson 402-551-3977

Pittsburgh, PA; Time: TBA Jewart's Pittsburgh North Stars locol contoct: Elaine Jewort 412-4B7-5999 Course Dir: Dave Adlard 510-439-7651

,----------Participation Registration Form

Heartland, MI; Time: TBA location: TBA Course Dir: Mary Panockio 810-474-0689

14 Santa Clarita, CA; 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Fun & Fit Gym; 21021 Soledad Canyon Rd Course Dir: Jeff lulla 818-845- 0700

21 Fort Wayne, IN; 1 :00-5:00 p.m. The little Gym (Westland Mall); 6183 W. Jefferson Blvd.; 46804 locol Contact: Amy Spiritoso 219-436-9353 Course Dir: Randy McCoy 1-800-418-2878

21 Pittsburgh, PA; 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. National School of Gymn locol Contoct: Jon Delmer 412-279-4344 Course Dir: Jeanette Jay 412-279-4344

21 Marlboro, NJ; 9:00 o.m.-l :00 p.m. Pro Gymn Training Center; 404 Timber lane; 07746 locol Conlact: Rose loschiavo 908-780-2543 Course Dir: Phil Frank 609-786-3977

27 Issaquah, WA, Time: TBA In conjunction with level 4 & 8 State Meet; East Side Gymnostics Course Dir: leigh Eaton 360-577-6274

Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18 years

Name: Mr./Mrs./Ms. __________________ _

Soc. Sec. #: _____________ Birthdate: _____ _

Address: ______ ________________ _

City: ____________ State: Zip ____ _

Telephone: (H) ________ (W) ________ _

Course Director: ____________________ _

Course Location: ______________ Date: ____ _

Organization Represented: ________________ _

MAY 31 Houston, TX; 1 :00-5:00 p.m.

Texas Summer Meeting local Contact: Cori Rizzo 713-980-7224 Course Dir: Jan 817-694- 2065

JUNE 01 TBA; 1 :00-5:00 p.m.

Course Dir: Chris Calvert 404-377-0241

15 Stroudsburg, PA; 1 :00-5:00 p.m. International Gym Camp; 717-629-0244 Course Dir: Phil Frank 609-786-3977

JULY TBA Indy Coaches Meeting

Course Dir: Barry Dubuque 812-482-4800

AUGUST North Bend, WA; 2:00-6:00 p.m. Site: TBA Course Dir: 360-577-6274

17 Stroudsburg, PA; 1:00-5:00 p.m. International Gym Camp; 717-629-0244 Course Dir: Phil Frank 609-786-3977

Please make checks payable in full to USA Gymnastics Safety Certification

Mail Registration Form and Payment to: USA Gymnastics Safety, Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol, indianapolis, IN 46225

I

23 Battle Creek, MI; Reg V Congress locol contact: Cindy Scharnes 616- 963-4770 Course Dir: Jerry Reighard 517-828-5604 or 517-774-6696

FALL TBA NJ; Time: TBA

Homilton Gymnostics, Gymnastics Unlimited Course Dir: Cathy Finkel 201-586-1808

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

Certification is good for four years.

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

To achieve Safety Certification, the participant must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the course.

NameonCard:______ i IftUA If I rSA Gymnastics Member, and Number ___________ _

of Payment: 0 Check 0 Visa 0 Mastercard 0 AmExp 0 Discover

Number: I GYMNASTICS ~xpir~~~ ___ ~~~ ____________ ~~: __ ~_J


9 ., .A 47

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technique magazine - march 1996

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