Training
What it takes to be a successful gymnast
There are many factors that contribute to making a successful gymnast. Some you are born with, some develop over time and others have to be learned.
Below are just some of these factors. But please take note of the centre circle, for this is the most important and truly necessary factor.
It is a sound Work Ethic that we look for most. Work Ethic is the “DO”, the action behind the desire. The ability of the gymnast to work hard even when he’s tired or bored or injured. The ability to block out distractions and continue to get the job done and stay focused. Its being self-sufficient and working hard when no one is watching. Its doing that little bit extra than is required of you.
WORK
ETHIC
Genetics
- Height
- Strength:Weight Ratio
- Muscle Fibres Fast/Slow
- Bone Density
- Skeletal Levers
Environment
- Coaching
- Equipment
- Training Hours
- Access to Medical
- Recovery
Physicality
- Flexibility
- Strength
- Attitude
- Fear
- Coordination
Desire
- Take & Apply Instruction
- Goals
- Fitness
- Fun
- Success
Things to keep in mind
People develop at their own pace;
-Physically
-Mentally
-Emotionally
To be truly successful, Gymnastics requires ALL three. Therefore, at times it is a waiting game and the coaches job is to ensure the gymnast is learning the correct technique and is enjoying being in the gym. Success will eventually come.
The average retirement age of a male Olympic Gymnast is 24 (but men are still competing at 38!)
There is NO “correct” age. Do not be dissuaded by USA Gymnastics age guidelines. They are only guidelines, but they are there to help keep gymnasts on track so we try as hard as possible to stay within those guidelines.
Men's Gymnastics is the perfect sport to teach focus and self-discipline - skills that can assist with their learning and concentration.
- Co-ordination
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Agility
- Time management
- Personal Responsibility
- Perseverance
- Develops healthy minds and bodies for now and later life
Gymnastics for men is six sports in ONE. It is for that reason that so much time is required in the gym, to be safe and proficient at 6 different sports.
Gymnastics IS the worlds hardest sport!!!
- Men’s Fitness Magazine, 1996
Success in Gymnastics can be many things. Our aim here is to work together to find what each person's individual goals are and to assist in meeting those goals. By having short term objectives and long term goals he will have fun along this journey.
GW Training Philosophy
The majority of time spent in the Gym will revolve around building and maintaining strength and flexibility as these are the building blocks of Gymnastics. The safest and quickest way to improve is to be strong and flexible. The nature of gymnastics requires strength and flexibility in ways that can seem extreme.
After basics have been introduced, these will continue to be refined over the life of the gymnast.
When the gymnast is physically, emotionally and mentally ready, specific skills will be introduced.
Finally, these learned skills will be completed in connections and routines will be performed and competed. The least amount of time is spent on this area as a junior athlete.
Routines
Skills
Basics
Strength &
Flexibility
Expectations for the Gymnast
Respect
-for self
-for others
-for environment
Personal Responsibility
-listen to the coaches instructions
-think about what the coach has said
-ask if there are any questions
-do, put everything into action
The nature of contemporary Olympic Gymnastics requires such an investment to safely and effectively reach the required physical level. The reality is, you can not be a “part time” gymnast if this high standard is your goal.
**We only ask that you keep your expectations inline with your commitment.
