Technique Magazine - August 1994 by USA Gymnastics

August 1994 Vol. 14, #8

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF USA GYMNASTICS

Inside Transferring Files Without Pain

1994

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Product vs. Process: A Coaching Decision

Scaredy Cat

Physical Abilities Profiles-1993 National TOPs Testing

The German Giantastics

Na ional • ~mnas• ics

N n 5 H V I ~. ~ u ~ u s t ~4-~ 1 1 ~

Gymnaestrada

Kinetics of Successful and Unsuccessful Gymnastics Landings

Preschool Survey Results

Ir.u~

GYMNASTICS

Educational Materials

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GYMNASTICS (;1) , i ~eniors !

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Seniors On The Move

Creating Gymnastics Pyramids And Balances

Renate Rikkers - 1986 - Spiral- 256 pp

Item # 3620

527.00

Joseph M. Fodera, [dO and Ernest E. Furblur, MS - 1989 - Spiral- 120 pp

Since the begirming of the eighties, words such as health, fitness and exercise have been a part of our daily language. It was discovered that daily exercise is a must in order to live a happy and healthy life. With this realization came the health clubs and exercise classes devoted to helping people become physically fit. This devotion, however, was directed almost exclusively to the younger generation. Very few programs have ever been designed specifically to aid the senior population in their quest for the " happier, healthier life" until this book, Seniors on the Move, by Renate Rikkers. RenateRikkers

Item # 3614

Pyramid building is safe and fun with the thorough instructions and guidelines found in this guide. Choose from 268 carefully illustrated and explained formations that have all met safety requirements of gyrrmastics and cheerleading organizations. Each formation is organized according to level of difficulty and sized of pyramid or balance for easy reference. There are even various stunts labeled according to level of difficultyfrom begirming to intermediate to advanced . Readers will learn proper positioning of performers, counterbalancing, assembly and disassembly of pyramids, and spotting and safety measures.

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

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

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

Item #

Description

Size

Quontity

Price

Total

518.00

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

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

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Publisher Editor Production Graphic Design Men's Program Director Women's Program Director Rhythmic Program Director

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

Telecommunications

Kathy Kelly

Osteochondritis Dissecons

Nora Campbell

Coaching

Contents Transferring Files Without Poin

Sports Science

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

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

Product vs. Process: ACoaching Decision Scoredy Cat

12 33

Coaches Education

ASEP Coaching Principles PDP II-Grandparenting Applicotion

14 32

TOPs Testing

Physicol Abilities Profiles-1993 National TOPs Testing Uneven Bars

The German Giant

General Gymnastics

Gymnaestrada

Research

Kinetics of Successful and Unsuccessful Gymnastics Landings

Preschool Survey Results Women's Minutes

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

Championships Status of NCAA Men's Progrom Rhythmic Minutes

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

40 41

Women's Judging

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

Women's Program

pe r year by USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, :01 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN J6225 (phone: 317-237-5050). Third class postage paid at Indianapolis, IN. Subscription price: 525.00 per year in United States; all other cou ntries 548.00 per year. If avai lable, back issue single cop ies 54.00 plus 51.00 postage/ handling. All reasonable ca re wi ll be taken, but no respons ibility can be assu med for unsolicited materia l; enclose return postage. Copyri ght 1994 by USA Gy mnastics and TECHN IQUE. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

38 38

Men's Gymnastics

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

46225. TECHN IQUE (ISSN 0748-5999) is published 10 limes

Preschool

Associate Content Editors Sports Science Advisory Committee

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTIO N INQUIRIES: In order to ensure uninterrupted delivery of TECHNIQUE magazine, notice of change of address should be made six to e ight weeks in advance. For fastest service, please enclose your present mailing label. Direc t a ll subscription mail to TECHNIQUE Subsc riptions, Pan American Plaza, 2U1 S. Capitol Ave., Sui te 300, Indianapoli S, IN

USA Gymnastics Judges' Fee Structure Jr. Olympic Optional Requirements

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

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

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

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~t:oo~r (opltllum

Radial Head Radial TuberMity

Radius

USA GYMNASTICS

EDUCATI0NAL ~ 4HILro~!!LE::E~!!~~:~ I"_W;" ., I

~::'PETITION 4. Tri meet: USA, B.elarus, (hina. Wom 0

VI DE0 IIPE5

Phoenix, Az-:a~ ;~t~:: and meet shots. (2.0 ) additional wor oU 51&.95 #2125

TIONAL .... EN'S OP .. ENGE-IY· t' nal competitIon.

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

19 9

CHAMPIONSHIPS

1991 MEN'S EVENT fiNALS

1991 MEN'S SENIOR & JUNIOR OPTIONALS 519.95

199 4 BUDGET Worcester, Mass.

51&.95

#212&

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

#2350

519.95 519.95

1991 WOMEN'S JUNIOR A OPT/ONALS Cincinna'~

OH. Selec,ea routines incluae: Woynerowski, McDermo", Spiale, Simpson, Hornbeek, Duf" ana o,hers. (2:00)(1991'

#2162

516.95

OH. Selec,ea routines. Also incluaes Senior compulsories. (2:00)(1991)

#2164

512.95

516.95

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

1991 RHYTHMIC JUNIOR & SENIOR FINALS

#2163

Coloraao Springs, CO. (199 I)

515.95

516.95

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

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

#2352

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

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1991 RHYTHMIC INDIVIDUAL fiNALS #2349

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

#2235

Belarus, (hina. Men's op

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

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

#2236

21-22, 1994. Til mee .

Phoenix, Az-May (0:57)

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

u.s.

4 HILTON CH~LL t. USA

524.95

#2255

519.95

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

#2355

512.95

199.2 SENIOR AA FINALS Coloraao Springs, CO. Incluaing: Sape"o, Hun', Bushnell, Simpson, H.

#2354

Lovel~

ana o,hers. (I992)

512.95

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

#2157

1994 AM SENIOR O:R/CAN CLASSIC. %i",OO",do, II, March

199.2 WOMEN'S SENIORS

24-~:'~~/~' ~OMPE"~~O'NN'/OR AND eu roullnes (n

S35 .00

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514.95

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

• wee lopes, SP)

#2156

r 994

level I. line" h' 11 'HAt/C J. CIl #2303 0 ns "·S ' 2 , ApriI23-24, 199/ (T! 'AMPIONSHIP'S 4.00 . Wo lapes}(l994) level a lind II' #2304 • O"s "e, II, Apri123-24 1 S24.00 ' 994. (Two lapes}(l994) Group. lincalnsh' I #2305 Ife, S~2ttI23-24, 1994. (/994)

521.95

RHYTHMIC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Nassau Co., NY, Junior Compe,itions-3-'ape se' I. Rope, Club, ana las' half 01 Hoops, (SP, 2:00:00) 2. Firs' half of Hoops, Ball Ribbon, (SP, 2:00:00) 3. AII'arouna Finals ana Even' Finals, (SP, 2:00:00)

# 2306

, August 1994

529.95

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

# 2307 TECHNIQUE

539.95

Telecommunications

TRANSFERRING

FILES WITHOUT PAIN

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

Figure 1 Databases available menu : Articles

USA Gymnastics Magazine

General Gymnastics Info

Nutrition

Research Data

Classified Ads

Software

Club Operations

Technique Magazine Online The Fans Speak

Jan Claire

Lets assume you're wanting to submit an article you've written about "How To Build The World's Safest Pit". f you are an online techno-user, you have undoubtedly found instances in which you wanted to get a great amount of information from your computer to someone else's or from theirs to yours. One way to do this is to copy files to diskette and send it to the other party. Another way-the old fashioned way-is to print out the material and provide it to the other party.

Then when online systems became prevalent, another, much quicker way of transferring data became available. You can send the file from your computer over telephone lines to another computer (Uploading). Or you can transfer data from that remote computer to your own computer over telephone lines (Downloading) . That system is available on USA Gymnastics Online! The LIBRARIES area of USA Gymnastics Online! contains many filesincluding some great gymnastics meet-scoring programs-which you can download to your own computer. Downloading and Uploading of files online is sort of the "ultimate high" to a computer user. Successfully downloading or uploading a file of data is confirmation you really know what data communications is all about. To do it quickly, efficiently, and correctly really gets the old endorphins moving! Many computer users have actually patted themselves on the back after accomplishing that first nerve-wracked, bug-eyed, sweaty upload session! It is the ultimate "handshaking" of your software, your computer, the telephone system, and the remote computer system. When they all work together, wonders can be transferred to and from your own computer. So w hy not give it a try?!

Lets upload a file to USA Gymnastics Online! The Libraries section of USA Gymnastics online is a "s torage place" for files others may wish to download. They may be submitted by anyone. In fact, when u sing the "submit" procedure below, there's a reward of" free online time" while uploading files as an encouragement for all to send their favorite NONCOPYRIGHTED, original files for other users to download for their own use . First, you have to sign on to the system. Type GR USA a t the Delphi Main menu, and once at USA Gymnastics Online's main menu you'll need to enter the LIBRARIES area by typing the first few letters of the word: LIB or LIBR will do it.

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

Figure 2 Articles Menu: Directory of Groups

Workspace

Read (and Download)

Help

Search (by Keyword)

Exit

Narrow search Widen search Set Topic Submi t

(Upload)

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

Figure 3 Database Submit Menu: Begin Submit (Step by Step)

Upload File 1

Description of Group

Batch Upload Files

Topic of Group

Review-edit Group

Filetype of Group

Copy File 1 from Workspace

Keywords for Group

Help

Name of Group

Exit

Choose Upload Protocol SUBMIT>

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

BEGIN

Augus t 1994 TECHNIQUE

Telecommunications

Type BEG or BEG I N to start your upload submission process. You will need to answer some questions about the file you are uploading. So have the following information about your file ready to enter: 1. A brief 1-line-or-Iess description of the file' s contents. 2. The topic in which you wish the file included (Articles).

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

f'; A 6

4. Keywords which best describe your file (Article, Gymnastics, Pits, Foam, construction). 5. Any special download filename that may be needed. 6. A name for your entry. 7. The type of uploading protocol you want the system to use, that

matches the one your software will be using (XModem, ZModem, etc.) You can always type? at a prompt to obtain assistance or the options available to you. After you have entered all the above information, there will be a point where you begin to upload your data. The menu item you use will be " UPLOAD FILE 1". At that time USA Gymnastics Online! will prompt you to begin your upload procedure, at which time you tell your software to upload the file. (Read your communications software manual, under "uploading files") Your software will want you to tell it what protocol you are using for the upload (XModem, ZModem, etc.) and where to find the file on your disk or diskette such as: "C : \ PCPLUS \ foamp i t . ar t " or whatever path your system follows to find the file. It may be as simple as "a: fo a mp i t . a r t ."

Downloading files Downloading files from USA Gymnastics Online! to your own computer is easier than uploading files. Plus it's always better-and cheaper-to download files, then read them on your own time after you've signed off the system. To download files (assuming you've already read and understood the "Downloading Files" chapter of your own communications software manual) select LIBRaries from the USA Gymnastics Online! main menu, then choose the topic you're looking for by selecting ARTICLES, or other areas shown in Figure 1 above. Once you've typed in your topic selection, you'll appear at the menu shown in Figure 2. From that menu, merely select "READ (and download) ". Once you have gone to the next menu, your options are spelled out:

Figure 4 Type : DOCUMENT Date : 1-JUL-1994 00:27 by WRITERMAN Size: 7420 /Count : 4 /Entry : 54 Published by USGF How To Build The World ' s Safest pit

/File : 02$KWCON_ $E54_Fl. DAT Ace: 7 -JUL-1994 02 : 28 Dow : foampit.art (Next , Down , Xm , List) ?

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

The (ore of being online Being able to smoothly upload and download vast quantities of data in a very short time, is the core of being online. The whole concept of computer communications centers around the great efficiency of being able to have a file of data now, when you need it, rather than waiting for mail, hard copies, or even faxes . Faxes, by the way, are nothing more than automated data transmissions. All a sending fax machine does is scan the document, convert it to data, then dial up another fax machine and send the data to it, where it is re-converted and printed. A fax machine is nothing more than a scanner/printer. Uploading, it's a scanner. Downloading it's a printer. No big deal in this day and age. Now you can do all that, and more, right from your computer terminal/modem! If you' d like more information on USA Gymnastics Online! just call us at 1-800-345-4719. With a computer and modem hooked up to your regular telephone, you can get information when you want it-FAST!

SIGNING UP FOR

USA GYMNASTICS ONLINE! Dial, with your computer/modem: 1-800-365-4636. Press <ENTER> a few times. When the system asks for USERNAME:just enter JDINDELPHI When the system asks for PASSWORD: enter GYMNASTICS Follow the menus to signup procedures.

Keywords : Article , Gymnastics , Pits, Foam , Construction

ACTION>

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

Call 1-800-695-4005, by voice phone, the next day to have your account activated. Then when signing on in the future type GR USA at Delphi's main prompt to access USA Gymnastics Online! Information on pricing and local telephone number in your area are given during the signup process.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

1'-

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

In addition to USA Gymnastics Online!, you can access DELPHI itself, and explore the Internet. Join USA Gymnastics Online! now and get 5 hours of evening or weekend access to tryout the Internet for free!

•• •

Use DELPHI's Internet mail to exchange messages w ith over 10 million people at universities, companies and other online services such as CompuServe and MCI Mail. Download programs and files using FTP or connect in real-time to other networks using Telnet! It's all yours when you "hook up" to USA Gymnastics Online and Delphi. It' s easy to sign up, and even easier to get online once you've signed up, through more than 600 local access telephone numbers nationwide. Exp lore it all from the comfort of your own computer. Get USA Gymnastics Online! and access to DELPHI and The Internet. You'll be amazed by what you discover!

5-HOUR FREE TRIAL! Dial By Modem 1-800-365-4636 Press Return 3 or 4 times At Password, enter GYMNASTICS Free time must be used on evenings and/or weekends Some restrictions apply. Complete details are provided during the toll-free registration

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

Sports Science

OSTEOCHONDRITIS DISSECANS I

A-

OF THE RIGHT CAPITELLUM WITH

OSTEOCARTILAGINOUS loOSE BODIES OF THE ELBOW IN A MALE GYMNAST:

A CASE REPORT

Larry W. Svihlik, M.A., D.C., c.C.S.P. 3439 Grand Boulevard, Brookfield, IL 60513

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

steochondritis dissecans, first termed by Koenig in 1887, is one of the more chronic and frequently misdiagnosed injuries of the elbow (1,2). In the literature, the cause ranges from mechanical stress and growth disorders to endocrine imbalances and familial predisposition (2-4). Mechanical explanations of osteochondritis dissecans attributed to stress are oftenrelated to the throwing and racquet sports. Few medically cited articles focus on this injury in the sport of gymnastics (5).

In medical sports research, five major categories of elbow stress are identified. Of these five, the mechanisms of repetitive micro trauma of valgus compression with an extension overload at the radiocapitallar joint are consistently identified to result in osseous changes that include loose bodies' formation (615). These etiological factors can easily be appreciated and recognized in the movements required for the sport of gymnastics, such as handstand pivoting moves and handsprings execu ted on the floor and apparatus. 111e clinical presentation often includes rapid and diffuse swelling and linUtation in elbow flexion and extension and may include elbow locking (16). Pain is localized

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

Case History A 13-year-old male gymnast reported to this office with his elbow in a sling. Six days earlier, after a routine gymnastics practice session, his right elbow became painfully swollen overnight. The following morning he was taken to a major medical emergency center. After a fourview and a two-view comparative x-ray elbow series, which showed joint effusion but was negative for osseous pathology, 10 ml of a mildly bloody fluid was drained from the joint. The patient was then injected with three ml of a saline lidocaine solution. An open cast elbow splint was applied with instructions to report back for a follow-up visit in two days. At the follow-up visit, the open cast was removed and replaced wi th an elbow sling to be worn for the next two weeks. The patient was advised to make another appointment in two weeks. No home self-care was recommended. After five days, the patient complained of deceasing range of motion (ROM)

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

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

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

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

Sports Science

and elbow flexion/extension ROM) to pain tolerance along w ith muscle stimulation, pulsed ultrasound, and microcurrent were u se d to decrease joint edema and pain and increase ROM to the elbow. The use of a rehabilitation cable pulley sled system (known as the TOTAL GYM速) that uses graduated percentages of patient body weight as resistance, was used because it stimulated gymnastics movements. By the 12th office visit, over a 24-day period, this treatment regimen steadily decreased the pain discomfort as well as dramatically returning p ronation and supination to the normal ROM. Elbow extension, but to a lesser degree than flexion, greatly improved. Because, historically, a mild bloody fluid had been removed from the elbow joint capsule, and despite rapid clinical improvement, the suspicion of an articular fracture representing loose bodies in the joint see med a po ss ibility (17,18). Another four-v iew elbow series was taken . The radiology report stated: "r ight el bow showed some calcification lateral to the elbow joint most likely representing chip fractures and therefore loose bodies in the joint. There is a break in the cortex of the capitellum consistent with a fracture of the ar ticular surface. The oblique view shows radiolucency in this area indicating a depressed fracture of uncertain age. There is some slight elevation of the posterior fat pad indica ting a small amount of effusion. No o ther fractures or any other bony joint abnormality were seen" An immediate phone conversation w ith a consulting orthopedic surgeon suggested that, because no painful clicking or locking incident had occurred and consistent strength gains, increased ROM, and decreased edema and pain disco mfort could be clinicall y observed, the pr esen t course of therapy should be continued. However, if a plateau of improvement de-

POSTERIOR

ANTERIOR Medial Supracondylar Ridge

Olecran on Fossa

Lateral Supracondylar Ridge

Olecranon Process Lateral Epicondyle

Capitellum Coronoid Process

.A Ulna

Radius --..j~

Ulna Radius

Elbow-Posterior and Anterior Views velops, an orthopedic consultation could be justified. Medical literature confirmed this recommendation (19,20) . The physiotherapy and rehabilitative exercises continued twice a week for the next seven weeks, at w hich time the patient was executing all of his daily activities without discomfort. On observation, slight edema was noted in the olecranon fossa but little palpable tenderness was felt at the radial/ humeral articulation. Active elbow extension, measured from full flexion, was 135 degrees as compared with 150 degrees on the noninjured side. Appreciating the importance of full elbow extension, required in this sport, coupled with the patient's desire to pursue competitive gymnastics, there still existed the possibility of a significant loose body in the

joint capsule that could inhibit full elbow movement and cause further internal joint damage. Because a computed tomographic scan arthrogram had not been completed, an orthopedic consult was arranged for the patient (21-24). Upon radiological review, palpation, and ROM examination, the orthopedic surgeon acknowledged the realistic possibility of a loose body(ies) lying posterior to the radial head and obstructing complete elbow extension. It was felt that if additional advanced imaging techniques were used, this lesion could still be "missed" and the full diagnostic and therapeutic value of arthroscopy could easily be justified, despite the possible risk of radial or medial nerve complications (25-29). Because the patient had not experi-

enced full ROM after a prolonged course of conservative treatment, the patient wasscheduled for the surgical procedure in two-and-a-halfweeks with tll.e recommendation to continue with rehabilitative therapy in order to aid in postoperative recovery. However, it was cautioned thatifthe loose body(ies), because of their location, coupled w ith the small volume and configuration of the joint's articular surfaces, could not be removed ar thro-scopically, a larger incisional technique might be necessary. Upon arthroscopic examination from an anteromedial portal, the radial head was identified and found to be intact except for displaying a small erosion on its rim. The capitellum was visualized and found to be intact. An oblong and oval loose body measuring three to four mm in length and two mm in diameter was noted floating in the elbow joint and was expressed by irrigation through one of the calUl.ulas . Attempts to visualize another osteocartilaginous fragment through direct posterior and posterolateral portals were unsucc essful. Consequently, a tlu'ee-cm-long arthro tomy incision on the posterolateral aspect of the elbow was performed tha t

Sports Science

A10

carried down through the dermis, fascia, and splitting of the anconeus muscle. A capsular incision was performed to visualize the elbow joint. However, the osteocartilaginous fragment was not loose but was itself encapsulated and adherent to the capsule. A small incision allowed this fragment to be removed from the capsular tissue. This oval-shaped osteocartilaginous body measured approximately eight to nine mm in length and six mm in diameter. The incision was irrigated with an antibiotic saline solution and sutured . Six hours postsurgerically, the patient returned home wearing an open cast splint positioned in elbow extension. Little medication was taken because of few patient complaints of discomfort. Postoperatively, the surgeon's recommendation was to continue the prophylactic antibiotic regimen for three days. Because the literature reveals the importance of limiting elbow immobilization, the patient was instructed to report to this chiropractic office for active and passive ROM exercises (29,30) . It was mutually agreed that electrical modalities (ultrasound and low-volt muscle stimulation) be started after the sutures were removed in nine days. A twice-weekly rehabilitation session consisting of deep cross-friction massage and active / passive elbow extension with emphasis on flexion was instituted (31). The patient's strength rehabilitation was again aided by the use of the TOTAL GYM速. Despite therapy interruptions because of family vacations, the patient made an uneventful recovery over the next four weeks in his ability to execute daily living and nonathletic school activities.

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

15.

Osteochondritis dissecans with loose bodies formation can have a natural history of causing

16.

erosive damage to articular surfaces, therefore causing early and silent occeous degenerative

17.

changes. It is frequently overlooked and misdiagnosed, most commonly in athletes under

18.

the age of 18 years, and can be surgically treated with "satisfactory results". cally treated with "satisfactory results" (31). However, two literature sources reported, in a follow-up survey of gymnasts who were treated for articular surface damage, that nearly all did not continue with competitive gymnastics (2,6) . As of October 1992, four months postsurgery, the patient had not yet returned to his pre-injury gymnastics skill level. However, a recent follow-up phone conversation confirmed that the patient finally achieved his preinjury skill level in February 1993 and completed a full gymnastics season on the high school level without incident.

Conclusion The small erosion on the radial head, coupled with the encapsulated loose body discovered during the arthroscopic examination, confirms the suggestion stated in the literature that this was a chronic microtrauma irritation that had been essentially an asymptomatic lesion. Early recognition of this potentially damaging articu1ar condition is of paramount importance to a successful and well-guided athletic rehabilitation regimen (32).

References 1.

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

man J, Compere CL. Osseous manifestations of elbow stress associated with sports activities. AJR 1 980;1 34:971 -977. 4. Kozlowski K, Middleton R. Familial osteochondritis dissecans: a dysplasia of articular cartilage? Skeletal Radiol 1985;13:207-210. 5. Priest JD . Elbow injuries in gymnastics. Clin Sports Med 1985;4:73-83. 6. Jackson DW, Silvino N . Reiman P. Osteochondritis in the female gymnast's elbow . Southern California Center for Sports Medicine, Long Beach. Arthroscopy 1989;5:129-136. 7. Pomtpre E, Maffulli N. Osteochondritis dissecans of the lateral humeral condyle in a table tennis player. Ventre Hospitalier d' Annecy, Department D'Orthopedie etTraumatologie, France. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1991;23:889-891. 8. Micheli LJ. Common painful sport injuries: assessment and treatment. Clin J Pain 1989;5 (suppI2):551-559. 9. Stanitski CL. Common injuries in preadolescent and adolescent athletes. Recommendation for prevention. Sports Med 1989;7:32-41. 10. Cooney WP. Sports injuries to the upper extremities. How to recognize and deal with some common problems. Postgrad Med 1984;76:45-50. 11. Stamotslo CL. Management of sports injuries in children and adolescents. Orthop Clin North Am; 1988,19:689-698. 12. Micheli IJ. The traction apophysitises. Clin Sport Med 1987;6:389-404. 13. Fengler H, Franz R. Microtrauma and cartilage injury [Germa n] . Beitr Orthop TraumatoI1989;36:498-502. 14. AronenJG. Problems of the upper ex tremity in gymnastics. Clin Sports Med 1985;4:61-71.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

19.

20.

21.

22. 23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

Ireland ML, Andrew IR. Shoulder and elbow injuries in young athletes. Clin Sports Med 1988;7:473-474. Andrew JR, Craven WM. Lesions of the posterior compartment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:646. Schafer RC. Chiropractic management of sports and recreational injuries. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1986:374. Magee DI. Orthopedic physical assessment. Philadelphia: WB . Saunders Company, 1987:13. McManama GB Jr, Micheli LJ, Berry MV, Sohn RS. The surgical treatment of osteochondritis of the capitellum. Am J Sports Med 1985;13:11-21. Yocum LA. The diagnosis of treatment in nonoperation of elbow problems in athletes. Clin Sports Med 1989;8:439. Newburg AH . Computed tomography of joint injuries. Radiol Clin North Am 1990; 28:445-460. Hall FM. Elbow arthrography. Radiology R1979;132:775-776. Hudson TM. Elbow arthrography. Radio Clin North Am 1981;19:227-241. Andrews IR, Carson WG. Arthroscopy of the elbow. Arthroscopy 1985;1:97-107. Pap ilion ID, Neff RS, Shall LM. Compression neuropathy of the radial nerve as a complication of elbow arthroscopy: a case report and review of the literature. Arthroscopy 1988; 4:282-286. Thomas MA, Fast A, Shapiro D. Radial nerve damage as a complication of elbow arthroscopy. Clin Orthop 1987; 215:130-131. Guhl JF. Arthroscopy and arthroscopic surgery of the elbow. Orthopedics 1985,8:12901296. Andrews IR, Craven WM. Lesions of the posterior compartment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:642. Renstrom P, Johnson RJ. Overuse injuries in sports. A review. Sports Med 1985;2:316-332. Blackburn TAJr. Rehabilitation of the shoulder and elbow after arthroscopy. Clin Sports Med 1987;6:588-590. O'Donoghue DH. Treatment of injuries to athletes. 4th ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders 1984:246. Andrews JR, Cravens WM. Lesions of the posterior compartment of the elbow. Clin Sports Med 1991;10:651.

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Coaching

hile the gymnastics scene has not yet suffered an outrageous calamity like the Monica Seles stabbing or the Tonya Harding case, it occurred to me that we certainly are not a stress free community either! Even on the most basic grassroots levels, tension commonly exists between coaches, athletes, and parents. This tension can take many forms. For example, at nearly any gymnastics meet one usually sees dozens of crying athletes, griping parents, and disenchanted coaches. These scenes are often caused by unclear and even unknown expectations or assumptions between one or more players in a drama starring the Athlete, the Coach, and the Parent.

PRODUCTVS. PROCESS: A COACHING DECISION

A pure product orientation implies a player or coach stresses the final outcome as the most important. A process orientation refers to coaches who value or emphasize those things that occur in practice which indirectly or directly create the desired outcome-the product. As one of the players in this trio, the coach is one who sometimes is guilty of too narrow expectations, such as when winning (beating others) becomes the all-important end. It is importantfor all coaches to periodically examine their intentions and assumptions by asking, "Just what kind of coach do I really want to be?" One way of answering this question is to examine whether you (as coach) are process or product oriented .

Product vs. Process Product or process orientation in sport is another way of looking at the means and ends of sport involvement. A pure product orientation implies a player or coach stresses the final outcome as the most important. A process orientation refers to coaches who val ue or emphasize those things that occur in practice which indirectly or directly create the desired outcome-the product. It is possible to categorize coaches and athletes as process or product oriented by observingwhatthey do and what they say. The following are some stereotypical characteristics of the process or product orientation of coaches.

Eric Malmberg, Ph.D.

Cortland State University USA Gymnastics Education Subcommittee

Are you product or process oriented?

EXPECTATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS The Trio of Players

ATHLETE

Typically a product oriented coach believes primarily in the endproduct and any means to that desired end is acceptable. This coach may require athletes to fit a certain mold or" system" and, as a result, may not be flexible regarding individual differences. Product coaches find it easy to justify even questionable methods or behaviors to reach their goal (end). Often these coaches accept inappropriate athletic behavior as OK, such as running up a score 41-0, or intimidating opponents, poor sportsmanship, and so forth. Some product oriented coaches view "the win" as their only objective for being a coach . Others" train" their athletes rather than " teach" them. These coaches may ignore the value of the athlete and insist that the athlete "not think, just do what I tell you." Consistent long term improvement may not be valued as much as getting the job done.

Product coaches find it easy to justify even

COACH

PARENTS

questionable methods or behaviors to reach their goal (end). Often these coaches accept

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

inappropriate athletic behavior as OK, such as running up a score 41-0, or intimidating opponents, poor sportsmanship, and so forth.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Coaching

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

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

0 R M A

N C

Play Well

Play Poorly

2 Lose & play well

3 Lose & play poorly

as teaching and places the highest priority on the long term process of learning. This coach prefers to measure success many ways and views winning as a secondary product of a quality teaching-learning experience. Although no particular value was placed upon one view or the other, it is important that coaches engage in this self-examination so they may more clearly communicate their expectations with both parents and athletes.

References Fraleigh, W. (1984). Right Actions in Sport: Ethics for Contestants. Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL: pp 61-62. Malmberg, E. (1988). Process-product orientation in sport: A justification of coaching for cognition. Journal of Applied Research in Coaching and Athletics. 3(2), pp 128-137.

OUTCOME P E R F

The process oriented coach tends to view coaching

1 Win & play well

4 Win & play poorly

SAFETY HANDBOOK Now AVAILABLE ~t//. ,.,.

••

Conclusion Although pressure or tension is a normal part of athletics, unclear expectations and assumptions about participation need to be clearly understood by athletes, coaches, and parents. One interesting way coaches can better understand and communicate their own expectations is to examine their coaching from process and product oriented viewpoints. Asking questions such as the fo llowing can hel p a coach to better understand his/her own reasons for involvement:

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

The 1 994 Edition of the USA Gymnastics Safety Handbook is now available. The Handbook is the required text for use in coni unction with all 3rd Cycle Safety Certification Courses. The Handbook is included as part of the Safety Course registration fee. All course participants will receive the book at the beginning of their course.

NOrE: All recent participants who have taken a designated 3rd Cycle Course using photocopies of the Handbook will receive their new book within the next four weeks. The Handbook is also available for purchase from the USA Gymnastics Merchandise Department. (Please use the order form on page 2 of this magazine).

To order, use the USA Gymnastics Merchandise order form on page 2.

• What is most important to me as a coach? Are your answers to these questions worded in a process or a product way?

#6001

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

$19.95

Coaches Education

ASEP COACHING I

PruNOPLES

To more accurately reflect their current programs and future efforts, ACEP is now ASEP, American Sport Education Program. In addition, the Sport Science Course is now titled "Coaching Principles Course." USA Gymnastics feels this is a positive change which indicates more specifically the content areas covered in this comprehensive course curriculum. Use the form below to pre-register for the course of your choice. To guarantee your registration, a completed form must be received by USA Gymnastics three weeks (21 days) prior to the published course date.

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

AUGUST J2- J3

AUGUST 28

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

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

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This course is to be held in con;undion with the Region V Mini路Congress.

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

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

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

IrISA GYMNASTICS

USA Gymnastics-ASEP Coaching Principles Course- Registration Form

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

Birthdate______ Age __ (min. age is 18 years)

Add res s_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

City

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

Zip _ _ __

Phone #: Home (_) - _

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Work (_) - _

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Social Security No. _ _ - __ - _ _ USAG Professional No._________ Safety Certification Status: Are you currently Safety Certified? D Course Information:

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Course Instructor(s) _______________________________________________ Course Information

1. The textbook for the Coaching Principles course is Successful Coaching. The textbook is included in the course fee. Preregistered participants will receive their materials at the course. 2. The course fee is $80. USAG Professional Members may register at the reduced rate of $70. 3. Successful completion of this course fulfills the Sport Science requirement for PDP Level II Accreditation . 4 . Send completed form with payment to: USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 Payment:

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

MasterCard or D VISA Card No._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Exp. Date: _I_I_ Card Holder Name:_________________________ Signature:________________________ T894 August 1994 TECHNIQUE

TOPs Testing

heTOPsprogram (Talent Opportunity Program) of USA Gymnastics was designed as an educational vehicle and an early talent identification tool (20) . The primary goal of the TOPs program was and is education. The TOPs program attempts to bring the best minds in gymnastics to those athletes and coaches who show promise, but are not currently in the elite competitive program, Wm. A. Sands, Ph.D. nor currently training gymnasts Department of Exercise and Sport Science with aspirations of international Universihj of Utah competition. The educational objectives of this program are to assistthe younger and less expeThe TOPs test battery con- are often called for when a genrienced coaches and athletes sis ted of three major areas of eral view of the athletic group is with knowledges and attitudes assessment: (a) medical history, of interest (1, 6, 10, 14, 7), and that will help them aspire to (b) physical abilities testing, and w hen trends or norms are being greater competitive success. Due (c) skill evaluation. The 6 to 8- investigated (2, 16, 8, 17, 12, 7). to limited funds, the TOPs pro- year-old athletes performed only Profiles of this nature provide gram uses a qualification sys- the medical history evaluations indices of the levels of certain tern to best provide its limited and the physical abilities test- characteristics of these athletes resources to the most deserving ing. The 9 to 11-year-olds per- and what characteristics ma y athletes and coaches. The TOPs formed all of the tests. The medi- dominate in a particular athletic program qualification system cal histor y portion was age group. Moreover, the identibegins with one or more regional completed by both parents/ fication of those variables which testings of female athletes be- guardians and a family physi- are age related may assist in the tween the ages of 6 and 11 years. ciano The physical abilities tests design of future talent identificaThe 6 to 8-year-old athletes who and skill evaluations were per- tion tests. Finally, the presentarank the highest in the regional formed at a regional site desig- tion of normative data by virtue testings earn the right for their nated by the TOPs Director or of the percentage rank tables coach (not themselves) to attend Elite Development Director for may assist the coach in preparthe National TOPs Training a particular USA Gymnastics ing his/her athletes by providCamp held annually. Athletes region.Followingrankingsfrom ing an indication of where the in the 9 to 11 year age group the regional testings, the top athlete stands relative to the athqualify from the regional testing ranked 9 to 11-year-old athletes letes analyzed in this document. to a national testing where they qualified to the national testing repeat the same tests and are in one ofthe three ages (i.e., 9,10, evaluated by the National Team or 11 years). The physical abilities assessCoaching Staff of USA Gymnasments of these gymnasts contics . Testing at the regional level The purpose of this docu- sisted of the following tests: is performed by a regional coach- ment is to present a physical 1. Height (em) ing staff. The athletes in the 9-11 abilities profile across the three 2. Mass (kg) year age group earn the right for age groups from the results of Sitting height (em) themselves and their coach to the 1993 tests obtained from the 3. Left and right arm length (em) attend the National TOPs Train- national testing held in India- 4. ________________________________ ing Camp. napolis, Ind. Profiles of athletes~65.. Left and right leg length (em)

PHYSICAL ABILITIES PROFILES 1993 NATIONAL TOPs TESTING

Methods

Biacromial diameter (em) Biiliae diameter (em) 8. Skinfold thickness (mm): (a) medial gastrocnemius, (b) anterior thigh, (c) trieep, (d) chin. 9. Active shoulder flexibility (em) 10. Right and left oversplit (em) 11 . Right and left forward active leg lift (score)

A total of 253 athletes participated in the national testing. These athletes were selected from regional testings held across the country prior to the national testing at various dates and sites.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

12. Right and left sideward active leg lift (score) 13. Uneven bar leg lifts (repetitions in lOs) 14. Push ups (repetitions in lOs) 15. Uneven bar pull ups (repetitions in lOs) 16. Handstand push ups (repetitions in lOs) 17. Standing countermovement vertical jump (em) 18. 20 meter dash (s) 19. Six Ib (2.7 kg) medicine ball throw forward (em) 20. Six Ib (2.7 kg) medicine ball throw backward (em) 21. Three bounding broad jumps in a row (em) 22. Left and right, one leg standing balance with eyes dosed (s) The procedures for these tests have been presented previously (20,19). The gymnastics related abilities tests (e.g., push ups) were administered by gymnastics coaches from the Elite Development Committee of USA Gymnastics. The anthropometric tests (e.g., skinfolds) were adminis tered by personnel from the National Institute for Fitness and Sport, Indianapolis, Ind. Skill evaluations were also administered, but will not be covered in this document. The athletes were assigned to groups prior to the testing and rotated as a group to each testing station. At each testing station the athletes were given a short explanation of the test by the test administrator and were allowed to warm up and practice prior to performing the test. One attempt at the test was allowed unless

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

.A 16

unusual circumstances beyond the control of the gymnast ocCUlTed. This policy was invoked to save time due to the large number of athletes participating, the limited time for testing, and the non-novel nature of these tests which gymnasts had practiced during their home training. This exploratory data analyses resulted in approximately 160 statistical tests. Multiple univariate tests were chosen based on the exploratory nature of this report and a need to explore each of the physical abilities test battery variables (11). Of course, in performing so many statistical tests, Type I er-

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

Table 2 Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Anthropometric Variables HEIGHT

Height Moss Sitting Height Arm Length Leg Length Biocromio) Dio. Biilioe Dio. Sum Skin folds Body Moss Index (BMI)

MASS

SITTING HEIGHT

ARM LENGTH

LEG LENGTH

BIACROM. DIAMETER

.84'

.30' .26'

.9l' .81 ' .26'

.90' .81' .26' .93'

.69* .65' .23' .70' .69'

Active Shoulder flexibility (em)

4.74

Right Over路split flexiubility (em)

.96

.38

2.42

.091

.0000

MEAN

128.5 134.8 137.1 .0000 26.3 Moss 35.34 (kg) 29.3 31.1 Sitting Height .0006 67.9 7.62 (em) 71.3 70.5 .0000 56.6 Left Arm Length 48.45 (em) 59.6 61.1 46.93 .0000 56.9 Right Arm Length (em) 59.8 61.3 47.72 .0000 65.9 Left Leg Length (em) 69.8 71.3 Right Leg Length 47.00 .0000 66.0 (em) 69.8 71.5 BiocromiolOiometer 17.06 .0000 24.8 (em) 25.7 26.1 Biilioe Diometer 41.86 .0000 19.5 (em) 20.5 21.0 Mediol Gostroenemius .22 .22 6.3 Skin fold (mm) 6.5 6.5 .79 9.0 Anterior Thigh .22 8.9 Skinfold (mm) 9.1 Trieep Skinfold .83 .44 6.9 6.9 (mml 6.6 .22 2.9 (hin Skin fold 1.50 (mm) 3.2 3.1 .94 25.2 Sum Skinfolds .06 (mm) 25.5 25.4 Body Moss Index 5.09 .0068 15.9 moss!ht2 16.1 16.5 ' =stotisticolly significont difference between row ond column. 50.85

GROUP

5.2 5.4 6.6 3.6 3.0 4.5 5.3 2.5 8.6 2.8 2.9 3.3

9 10

2.7

2.9 3.4 3.3 3.5 4.3 3.3 3.6 4.3 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.1 1.0 1.2 1.9 1.6 1.9 2.5 1.8 2.2 1.9 1.4 1.5 0.84 0.89 1.13 6.1 4.4 5.3 1.3 1.0 1.5

F(2,2S0) .0096

Left Over路split Flexibility (em)

II 9 10

Right fo rword Leg lift flexibility Score

.06

.95

Left forword Leg lift fl exibility Score

.17

.84

Right Sideqord Leg lift flexibility Score

.53

.59

Left Sideword Leg lift flexibility Score

.63

.53

9 10

9 10 11 9 10

" 9 10 II 9 10

9 10

9 10 II 9 10

9 10 II 9 10 11 9 10

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

9 10 11 9 10

" August 1994

.31' .30' .32' .40' .32'

.15 .04 .17

TECHNIQUE

MEAN

GROUP

37.4 41.8 21.9 23.2 24.6 23.0 21.2

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

9 10 11 9 10

23.9

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

" "

Table 3

VARIABLE

F(2,250)

.27' .74'

.12 .25" .02

Analysis of Variance Results Across Age Groups Flexibili hjTests

Table 1

VARIABLE

.7B' .76' .28' .74' .68' .65'

BMI

' =p<.OO1.

Analysis of Variance Results Across Age Groups Anthropometric Tests Height (em)

BllliAC SUM DIAMETER SKINfOLDS

21.2 7.9 7.9 7.9 7.8 7.8 7.7 8.4 8.2 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.1

9 10 II 9 10

" " " 9 10

9 10

9 10 II

long legs, (f) large biacromial diameter, (g) small biiliac diameter, (h) small sum of skinfolds, and (i) high values on all fle xibility and strength tests, except the 20 meter dash (20). Therefore, the norms of these athletes. represent a selected sample rather than a nationwide general sample. A total of 253 athletes participated in the national testing . These athletes were selected from regional testings held across the country prior to the national testing at various dates and sites. Eighty six of these athletes were nine years old, 86 were 10-yearsold, and 81 were 11-years-old. Table 1 shows the results of the oneway ANOVas and post hoc tests on the anUu'opometric as-

TOPs Testing

Table 4

Table 5

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

Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Flexibilih) and Anthropometric Variables

VARIABLE

F(2,2S0)

MEAN

GROUP

Uneven Bors leg lihs 1Os Repetitions

1.92

.15

6.2 6.4 6.6

Push Ups 1Os Repetitions

1.14

1.3 1.2 1.2 1.7 2.1 1.8

9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11

.32

11.7

11.9 12.1 Pull Ups 2.26 .11 6.8 1Os Repetitions 7.0 7.3 Hondstond Push Ups .45 .64 8.7 8.3 1Os Repetitions 8.4 Vertical Jump (em) 32.37 .0000 38.9 43.1 45.6 20m Dash (sec) 25.69 .0000 3.65 3.56 3.47 Medicine Ball Throw 41.90 .0000 308.8 364.5 397.8 Medicine Ball Throw 42.61 .0000 288.1 Backward (em) 377.7 425.2 .0000 137.1 Broad Jump 10.85 Distance 1 (em) 147.9 153.0 Brood Jump 19.04 .0000 311.B Distonce 2 (em) 338.2 347.4 Broad Jump 29.47 .0000 515.0 Distonce 3 (em) 546.4 564.3 One leg Stonding 8010nce 6.70 .0015 15.9 leh (sec) 22.5 26.5 One leg Stonding 8alance 5.97 .0029 15.6 Right (sec) 23.1 26.1 , = statisticolly significant difference between row and column.

sessments by age group. Table 2 shows Pearson product moment correlation coefficients on selected variable pairs for anthropometric variables. In the case of bilateral variables, the mean of the bilateral variables was used for correlational calculations. All correlational analyses were calculated across all the athletes (n=253) . Table 3 shows the results of oneway ANOV As and post hoc test calculations for the fle xibility tests of the physical abilities test battery. Table 4 shows the results of the oneway ANOV As and post hoc test calculations for the strength tests of the physical abilities test battery. Table 5 indicates the Pearson product moment correlation coefficients of the flexibility variables.

1.5

1.4 1.3 3.0 2.7 2.6 4.6 5.4 6.1 0.19 0.18 0.15 53.5 58.6 77.4 90.7 83.7 117.0 45.3 24.5 19.3 45.3 33.3 37.2 40.4 41.9 44.1 17.0 19.6 20.6 17.3 22.2 21.2

HEIGHT

MAlI SHOULDER

AmvE SPLIT

.84'

.20* .22'

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

RT OVER LT OVE R SPLIT LEG Lin

-.09 -.17 .18

-.04 -.06 .24* .61 *

RT FWD LEG Lin

LT FWD LEG Lin

RT SIDE LEG Lin

LT SIDE

-.15 -.19 .19 .60* .27*

路.13 -.14 .18 .36* .61 ' .50'

-.19 -.21 * .11 .62' .32' .71" .45'

,.1 5 -.19 .17 .43' .63* .47* .81 * .58'

., 9

A. 17

*=p<.OOI.

Table 6 Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients Selected Strength/power and Anthropometric Variables

9 10 11

HEIGHT MAlI

9 10 11 9 10 11

UB PUSH Ups PULL Ups HNSTD VERTICAL LEG Lim PUSH Ups JUMP

.84' ,.13 Height ,.08 Moss UB leg lihs PushUps PuliUps Hdstd PushUps Vertical Jump 20m Dash Med BallForward Med 8011 80ckword Brood Jump Total Distance

9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11 9 10 11

,.21 " ,.11 .14

-.01 .01 .37' .14

,.37' ,.29' .40' .37* .26'

.44' .41 * .08 .08 .19 .05

20M DASH

,.36* ,.33 ,.12 -.22' -.28' ,.24* -.59*

MED BALL MED BALL BROAD Jp. FWD BWD TOTAL

.62" .62 ' .11 ,.02 .17 ,.06 .51'

'.42'

.62' .59' .06 -.04 .23' ,.06 .47' -.43' .65'

.47' .46' ,.02 .06 .20' ,.00 .53' '.24' .44' .43'

' =p<.OOI.

Table 7 7 Anthropometric Normative Values 9 Year Olds

Table 6 shows the Pearson product moment correlation coefficients of the strength and power variables. In all of the ANOV A results, because of the differences shown in anthropometric characteristics between the age groups, analysis of covariance with one or more anthropometric variables as covariates was considered. However, the magnitude of the correlations of the potential covariates with the dependent variables was not large enough to justify the procedure (21,9). All normative data were calculated based on the mean and standard deviation of the tested variable for each age group. The normative data are presented in Tables 7-15.

HEIGHT

MAlI

RANK

(CM )

(KG)

SITTING HEIGHT (CM)

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

112.9

121.3 124.1 125.8 127.2 128.5 129.8 131.2 132.9 135.7 144.1

15.5 21.3 23.3 24.4 25.4 26.3 27.2 28.2 29.3 31.3 37.1

52.0 60.6 63.4 65.1 66.6 67.9 69.2 70.7 72.4 75.2 83.8

BIiLiAC SUM DIAMETER SKINroLoz (CM) (MM)

16.2 18.0 18.6 18.9 19.2 19.5 19.8 20.1 20.4 21.0 22.8

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

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

6.9 16.8 20.1 22.0 23.7 25.2 26.7 28.4 30.3 33.6 43.5

ARM LENGTH (CM)

LEG LENGTH (CM)

64.8 60.4 59.0 58.1 57.4 56.7 56.0 55.3 54.4 53.0 48.6

75.9 70.6 68.8 67.7 66.8 66.0 65.2 64.3 63.2 61.4 56.1

BIACROMIAL DIAMETER (CM)

29.3 26.9 26.1 25.6 25.2 24.8 24.4 24.0 23.5 22.7 20.3

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

TOPs Testing

Table 8 Anthropometric Normative Values 10 Year Olds HEIGHT

MAlI

RAN K

(CM)

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

118.6 127.3 130.3 132.0 133.5 134.8 136.2 137.6 139.3 142.3 151.0

SITIING HEIGHT

BllliAe DIAMETER

SUM SKINFOLOZ

(KG)

(CM)

20.3 25.2 26.8 27.7 28.6 29.3 30.1 30.9 31.8 33.4 38.3

63.8 67.9 69.2 70.0 70.7 71.3 71.9 72.6 73.4 74.8 78.8

17.5 19.1 19.7 20.0 20.3 20.5 20.8 21.0 21.3 21.9 23.5

A18

BIAeROMIAL DIAMETER

ARM LENGTH

LEG LENGTH

(MM)

(CM)

12.3 19.4 21.8 23.2 24.4 25.5 26.6 27.8 29.2 31.6 38.7

68.4 63.7 62.1 61.2 60.4 59.7 59.0 58.2 57.3 55.7 51.0

80.6 74.8 72.8 71.7 70.7 69.8 68.9 67.9 66.8 64.8 59.0

30.2 27.8 27.0 26.5 26.1 25.7 25.3 24.9 24.4 23.6 21.2

Table 9 A nthropometric Normative Values 11 Year Olds MAlI

SITIING HEIGHT

BIiLiAe DIAMETER

SUM SKINFOLOZ

ARM LENGTH

LEG LENGTH

RANK

(CM)

(KG)

(CM)

(MM)

(CM)

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

117.3 128.0 131.6 133.7 135.5 137.1 138.8 140.5 142.6 146.2 156.9

17.6 24.9 27.3 28.8 30.0 31.1 32.2 33.4 34.9 37.3 44.6

44.7 58.6 63.3 66.0 68.4 70.5 72.7 75.0 77.7 82.4 96.3

17.4 19.3 20.0 20.4 20.7 21.0 21.3 21.6 22.0 22.7 24.6

9.5 18.1 20.9 22.6 24.1 25.4 26.7 28.2 29.9 32.7 41.3

71.4 65.9 64.1 63.0 62.1 61.2 60.4 59.4 58.3 56.5 51.0

84.3 77.3 75.0 73.6 72.5 71.4 70.3 69.2 67.8 65.5 58.5

30.9 28.3 27.4 26.9 26.5 26.1 25.7 25.3 24.8 23.9 21.3

HEIGHT

BIAeROMIAL DIAMETER

Table 10 Flexibilih) Normative Values 9 Year Olds LEFT SPLIT

RIGHT Fwo LEG LIFT

(CM)

(1-10)

46.9 71.0 34.1 52.9 29.8 46 .8 27.3 43.2 40.2 25.2 37.4 23.2 21.2 34.6 19.1 31.6 28.0 16.6 12.3 21.9 3.8 .... = out of onge volue.

47.0 33.1 28.4 25.7 23.3 21.2 19.1 16.7 14.0 9.3 *"**

+".*.

****

**** 10.3 9.5 9.0 8.6 8.2 7.8 7.4 6.9 6.1 3.7

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

ACTIVE SHOULOER

RIGHT SPLIT

(CM)

* ,,~*

10.0 9.2 8.7 8.3 7.9 7.5 7.1 6.6 5.8 3.4

program, it is important to return inform a tion regarding these athletes to the athletes, parents, and coaches of these groups, now and in the future. The many tables included in the results section of this document

LEFT Fwo LEG LIFT

10.1 9.2 8.7 8.2 7.8 7.4 6.9 6.4 5.5 2.7

RIGHT SlOE LEG LIFT

10.2 9.5 9.1 8.7 8.4 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.6 4.5

LEFT SlOE LEG LIFT

show the results of a variable by variable analysis of the TOPs testing program, and on average, how the 9 to 11-year-old athletes performed. This descriptivej normative information can be used by coaches and Augus t 1994

athletes to determine if an athlete is progressing in physical abilities as she grows, and determine relative weaknesses of our nation and individual athletes in these age groups. Cross sectionally, these data can offer some indication of the relative growth of various parameters in these selected gymnas tics age groups. In a study of 52 athletes at the Junior European Championships, Calderone, et al. (7) found the following average information for the 11 year-old athJetes (n=2) tested: (a)mas,s29.8504.9 kg, (b) height 134.5 0 6.4 cm, ~d (c) body mass index 16.35 0 1.2. These compare with the information provided in Table 1. A study of young "highly trained" Swiss gymnasts by Theintz, et al. (22) showed that the TOPs athletes of 10 and 11 years were camparable or slightly shorter than the Swiss athletes. Moreover, the leg length measurements of the TOPs athletes compared well with the Theintz, et al. study, while the sitting height of the TOPs a thletes was slightl y shorter. In a study by Benardot and Czerwinski (4) of7-14-yearold U.S. Association of Independent Gymnastics Clubs athletes, comparable data were found for mass, height, and body mass index, while tricep and anterior thigh skinfolds tended to be lower in the TOPs athletes. These athletes are all smaller and lighter than their nonathletic age mates (15), and in comparison to some other studies of similar age (i.e., 11.5 yr) gymnasts from the Netherlands (5). The height and mass data also compares well to the prediction equation developed by Sands (18) . A study of Canadian gymnasts at the Seneca Gymnastics School (13) indicated that their anthropometric data were very close to the data shown in Table 1 for height and mass of 10-year-olds (n=12). However, the TOPs athletes jumped almost 10 cmhigher than the Seneca gymnas ts in the vertical jump test. Interestingly, several anthropometric variables dis tin g ui sh ed betw een age groups such as height, mass, arm length, and so for th. Where disTECHNIQUE

crepancies in this pattern oc curred it was always indicativ e of the nine-year-old athletes dif fering from the 10 and 11-year olds, while the 10 and 11-year olds did not differ. This may indicate that 9-year-old femal e gymnasts have some importan t growth related characteristics that distinguish them more dra matically from the 10 and 11 year-olds. Finally, none of the body composition nor body mass index variables dis tinguished b e tween these age groups . This may indicate that these athletes are of fairly uniform body composition. The flexibility information on all of the TOPs tests compared well with standards postulated by Sands (18), and was indicative of the early development of talented young gymnasts when compared to data on similar tests of national team members (19), and from Canadian talent identification programs (3) . Other comparisons were impossible due to the paucity of published flexibility information on these age groups and particular tests. Interestingly, none of the age groups could be discriminated by their flexibilit y results as shown in Table 3. The strength and power information also compare well with the standards postulated by Sands (18, 19), and the Canadian testing program s (3, 13). The physical abilities tests that were scored by the number of repetitions done in 10 seconds did not distinguish between age groups (See Table 4). However, all of the power related tests d id distinguish between age groups. Again, if there was one group that stood out as being somewhat different it was the nineyear-olds. The 9-year-olds differed from the 10 and 11-yearold groups without the 10 and ll-year-olds differing in the first two broad jump distances. The standing unsighted balance tests came quite close to statistical significance except for the very stringent alpha level set in this study. The near statistical significance of the standing balance tests may by indicative of maturation of this skill.

TOPs Testing

The correlational informaion is presented in Tables 2, 5, and 6. The correlation coefficients are impressive if only in the general lack of high values. It is interesting to note that height and mass only correlate r= .84, p <.OOl, indicating that only 70% of the variability in one could be predicted by the other. Arm and leg length and standing height are highly correlated, as would be expected. Moreover, mass and arm and leg length are also high! y correlated, again highly likely. Beyond these, the values of the correlation coefficients are not ·mpressive. Although many of the variables are statistically significant, indicating that there is a relationship, however the magnitude of the coefficient of variation in many of these circumstances indicates a very low to moderate level of predicted variance (21) .

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

References 1.

Adrian, MJ and Anjos, LAD. Profiling. In: Biomechal1ics il1 sports, edited by J. Terauds, Gowitzke, B. A., and Holt, L. E. Del Mar, CA: Academic Publishers, 1987, p. 308-312. Anderson, SJ, H eusner, WW, Golden, D, O'Brien, R, Mal ina, RM, Shea, J, Gabriel, L, and Geitlmer, CA. Sport, medical and injury background of Junior Olympic Divers. In: U.S. Divil1g Sport Sciel1ce Semil1ar 1993 Proceedir/gs, edi ted by R. Malina, and Gabriel, J. L. Indianapolis, IN: U.s. Diving Publications, 1993, p .41-49. Bajin B. Talent identification programs for Canadian female gymnasts. In: World idel1tificatiol1 systems for gym l1astic talel1t, ed ited by B. Petiot, Salmela, J. H ., and Ho shi zak i, T. B. Montreal, Canada: Sport Psyche Editions, 1987, p. 34-44. Benardo t, D., and Czerwinski, C. Selected bod y composition and growth measures of junior elite gynmasts. J. Am. Diet. Assoc. 91: 29-33,1991.

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

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

Calderone, G, Leglise, M, Giampietro, M, and Betlutti, G. Antluopomeh'ic measurements, body composition, biological ma tura tion and growth predictions in young female gynm asts of high agnostic level. J. Sports Med. Phys. Fitl1 ess 26: 263273,1986.

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

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

10.

Hensc h en, KB, Sands, and Gordin, R. Getting ready for '88. New Horizons of Human Movement III. Seoul Olympic ScientificOrganizingCommittee.168169. (Abstract).

11.

Hubertym CJ and Morris, JD . Mu ltivariate ana lys is ve rsus A ugust 1994

Tobie 11 Flexihilih) Nonnative Values 10 Year Olds ACTIVE SHOULDER (CM)

RIGHT SPlIT (CM)

LEFT SPLIT (CM)

73.6 49.2 56.4 35.9 31.5 50.7 47.3 28.9 44.4 26.7 41.8 24.6 39.2 22.6 36.3 20.3 32.9 17.7 27.2 13.3 10.0 0.0 • • •• = out of ronge value.

52.7 37.1 32.0 28.9 26.3 23.9 21.5 18.9 15.8 10.7

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1

RIGHT FWD LEG LIFT

LEFT FWD LEG LIFT

RIGHT SIDE LEG LIFT

LEFT SIDE LEG LIFT

(1-10)

10.1 9.2 8.7 8.3 7.9 7.5 7.1 6.6 5.7 3.1

10.0 9.1 8.6 8.2 7.8 7.4 7.0 6.5 5.6 3.0

10.1 9.4 8.9 8.5 8.2 7.9 7.5 7.0 6.3 4.0

10.1 9.4 9.0 8.6 8.3 8.0 7.6 7.2 6.5 4.4

RIGHT FWD LEG LIFT

LEFT FWD LEG LIFT

RIGHT SIDE LEG LIFT

LEFT SIDE LEG LI FT

(1-10)

(1 -10)

1M 9.4 8.8 8.4 7.9 7.5 7.0 6.4 5.4 2.5

1M 9.1 8.6 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 6.3 5.4 2.6

lU 9.4 8.9 8.5 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 5.9 3.3

.A 19

Tobie 12 Flexihilih) Normative Values 11 Year Olds AmVE SHOULDER (CM)

% RANK

99.9 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0.1 •••• =

RIGHT SPlIT (CM)

LEFT SPlIT (CM)

74.3 49.7 56.8 35.3 51.0 30.5 47.5 27.6 44.6 25.2 41.9 23.0 39.2 20.8 36.3 18.4 32.8 15.5 27.0 10.7 9.5 out of ronge value.

49.1 34.0 29.0 26.0 23.5 21.2 18.9 16.4 13.4 8.4

9.4 8.9 8.5 8.1 7.7 7.3 6.8 6.0 3.6

Tobie 13 Strength/power Normative Values 9 Year Olds UB

PUSH UPS (REPS)

PULL UPS (REPS)

99.9 10.1 16.8 90 8.0 14.0 80 7.3 13.1 70 6.9 12.6 6.5 60 12.1 6.2 50 11.7 40 5.9 11.3 30 5.5 10.8 20 5.1 10.3 10 4.4 9.4 0.1 6.6 2.3 *' •• = out of ronge value.

11.3 8.9 8.1 7.6 7.2 6.8 6.4 6.0 5.5 4.7 2.3

% RANK

LEG LIFT (REPS)

HNDSTD VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAD PUSH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT (REPS) (CM) (CM) (CM) (eM)

17.7 12.8 11.2 10.3 9.5 8.7 7.9 7.1 6.2 4.6

multiple univariate analyses. Psych. Bill. 105(2): 302-308,1989. 12.

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

TECHNIQUE

52.7 45.2 42.8 41.3 40.1 38.9 37.8 36.5 35.0 32.6 25.1

469 382 353 336 322 308 295 281 263 235 148

560 413 364 335 310 288 265 240 211 162 160

636 570 548 536 525 515 504 494 481 459 393

BALANCE 1 LEG

20M DASH

(S)

66.9 39.4 30.2 24.7 20.2 15.9 11.7 7.1 1.6

3.08 3.39 3.49 3.55 3.60 3.65 3.70 3.75 3.81 3.91 4.22

In: 1992 USGF Sport Sciellce COI1gress Proceedillgs, edited by J. L. McNitt-Gray, Girandola, R., and Cal laghan, J. Indianapolis, IN: USGFPublications, 1992, p. 5-1 2.

TOPs Testing

Table 14

Table 1S

Strength/power N ormative Valu es 10 Year Olds

Streng th/power Normative Values 11 Year Olds

UB % RANK

LEG LIFT (REPS)

PU SH Ups (REPS)

99.9 10.0 18.2 90 8.1 14.8 80 7.4 13.7 70 7.0 13.0 60 6.7 12.4 50 6.4 11.9 40 6.1 11.4 30 5.8 10.8 20 5.4 10.1 10 4.7 9.0 0.1 2.8 5.6 . . .. ; oul of range value.

13.

14.

PULL Ups (REPS)

11.2 8.9 8.2 7.7 7.4 7.0 6.7 6.3 5.8 5.1 2.8

HNDSTD VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAD PU SH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT (CM) (CM) (CM) (CM) (REPS)

16.4 12.0 10.6 9.7 9.0 8.3 7.6 6.9 6.0 4.6

59.3 50.6 47.6 45.9 44.5 43.1 41.8 40.3 38.6 35.6 26.9

Jerome, W, Weese, R, Plyley, M, Klavora, P, and Howley, T. The Seneca gymnastic experience. In: Psychological nurtu ring and gu idance of J51j lllnastic talent, edited by J. H. Salmela, Petiot, B., and Hoshiz aki, T. B. Montreal, Quebec: Sport Psyche Editions, 1987, p. 90-118. Kowalski, MF and Grana, WA. A profile of the elite athlete. In: Ad-

vances in Sports Medicine and Fitness, 2: Advances in sports medicine andfitness, edited by W. A. Grana, Lombardo, J. A., Sharkey, B. J., and Stone, J. A. Chicago, IL: Year

540 445 413 395 379 364 349 334 315 283 188

628 493 448 421 398 377 356 334 307 262 126

672 604 581 568 556 546 535 524

511 488 420

BALANCE

1 LEG (S)

81.3 49.5 39.0 32.7 27.4 22.5 17.6 12.3 6.0

20M DASH (s)

3.02 3.31 3.41 3.47 3.52 3.56 3.61 3.65 3.7 1 3.81 4.10

UB LEG % RANK

16.

Malina, RM, Meleski, BW, and Shoup, RF. Anthro pometric, body composition, and maturity characteristics of selected schoolage athletes. Pedia t. Clinics. N. A mer. 29(6): 1305-1323,1982. Rubin, BD, Anderson, SJ, Chandler, J, and Kibler, WB. A physiological and shoulder injury profil e of elite divers. In: U.S. Diving Sport Science Seminar 1993 Proceedings, edited by R. Malina, and Gabriel, J. L. Indianapolis, IN:

PUSH Ups (REPS)

99.9 10.2 17.5 90 8.3 14.6 80 7.6 13.6 70 7.2 13.0 60 6.9 12.5 50 6.6 12.1 40 6.3 11.7 30 6.0 11.2 20 5.6 10.6 10 4.9 9.6 0.1 3.0 6.7 •••• ; oul of range value.

Book Medical Publishers, Vol. 2, 1989, p. 1-14. 15.

LIFT (REPS)

PULL Ups (REPS)

11.2 9.1 8.4 8.0 7.6 7.3 7.0 6.6 6.2 5.5 3.4

HNDSTO VERTICAL MEDICINE MEDICINE BROAO PUSH UPS JUMP BALL FWD BALL BWD JUMP TOT (CM) (CM) (CM) (CM) (REPS)

16.2 12.0 10.6 9.8 9. 1 8.4 7.8 7.0 6.2 4.8 •• **

63.9 54.0 50.7 48.8 47 .1 45.6 44.1 42.4 40.5 37.2 27.3

630 504 462 438 417 397 378 357 332 291 165

U.S. Diving Publications, 1993, p.1 58-164. 17.

776 586 523 486 454 425 396 364 326 263 74

696 625 601 587 575 564 553 541 527 503 432

BALANCE

1 LEG (s)

88.3 54.9 43.8 37.2 31.7 26.5 21.4 15.8 9.2 ,.*"'. "ok."-

20M DASH (s)

3.02 3.26 3.34 3.39 3.43 3.47 3.51 3.55 3.60 3.68 3.92

fo r women . Technique 8: 2732,1988.

Rubin, BD, McNitt-Gray, JL, and Mangine, RE. Physical assessment of u.s. Diving national team members. In: U. S. Diving Sport Science Seminar 1993 Proceedings, edited by R. Malina, and Gabriel, J. L. Indianapolis, IN: U.s. Diving Publications, 1993, p. 114-120.

20.

Sands, W. A. Ta lent opportlll1ity prog ram. Indi a n a p o li s, IN: United States Gymnastics Federa ti on, 1993.

21.

Sokal, RR, and Rohlf, F. James. Biometry, 2nd ed. New York, NY: W. H . Freeman, 1969.

18.

Sands, B. Coaching women 's gynl'lnstics. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 1984.

22.

19.

Sands, W. U.s. Gynmastics Federation physical abilities testing

Theintz, GE, Howald, H, Weiss, U, Sizonenko, Pc. Evidence for a reduction of grow th potential in adolescent female gynmasts. J. Ped. 122: 306-313,1993.

RHYTHMIC PROMOTIONAL VIDEO IS NOW COMPLETE! til

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

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

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

August 1994

TECHNIQUE

IttSA GYMNASTICS

Uneven Bars

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

Department of Exercise and Sport Science University of Utah

~:s~e::~~~~~

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

formed a German giant directly a particular swing, she should to a Tkatchev. Of course, the probably pursue something else. gymnast did not appear to re- Of course, the swing to try for the ceive a requisite score, perhaps German giant is a swing from a because few appreciated how re- "skin-the-cat" position (see Figally difficult this is to perform, ure 2). Remember that the swings and the Tkatchev did not fly as should be small. The gymnast high as a normal Tkatchev. There are a variety of Figure II: Tap Swing of German Giant ways that a gymnast can swing with one of the unusual grips. A German giant or "German" swing (I don't know where the "German" came from) , can lead to many interesting skills. Moreover, the German giant is visually quite obvious so some of the lack of inherent visual distinctiveness of the eagle and inverted giant swings can be partially avoided. This skill is clearly for very advanced female gymnasts only. In my opinion, you will be likely to find that some gymnasts have a natural "feeling" for one type of the unusual grips more than the others. You can often get an idea of this by simply having the gymnast hang and take a few very small swings in the unusual grip. If the gymnast feels pain in

It is my feeling that women will have an unusual grip requirement in their uneven bars routines before too long. Gymnasts, women's Figure I: German Giant coaches, and women's judges will need to develop an understanding and appreciation for these types of skills. Some aspects of these skills are quite i~~ii!~ 2 subtle and will require i retraining the eyes to 3 detect th e performance and performance fl aws. Some unusual grip swings have been done by female gymnasts, including the German giant to be discussed here. A Chinese gymnast at the Goodwill Games in Seattle p er-

will have a difficult time learning to regrasp, or shift grip, at the end of the swing to continue to hang on. Be aware of this grip problem and spot the gymnast carefully throughout these drills, do not let your guard down. Figure 1 shows the German giant sequence. It begins with a reverse kip. The gymnast usu-

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

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

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

Uneven Bars

German giant. It is very importantthatthe gymnast have avery controlled reverse kip that finishes in the position shown in Figure I-picture 5. The position shown in Figure I-picture 5 allows the gymnast to prepare for a violent piking action from the hips while she presses down and slightly forward on the rail. The remainder of the pictures in Figure 1 show the basic German giant swing back to the high V position. The German giant swing can end in the high V where the gymnast would then "stoop out" swinging under the bar. The giant swing can also end by flanking the legs to one side and swinging down in a long hang. In addition, during the upswing the gymnast can release one hand and perform a half turn and regrasp to a long hang or support. Figure II shows a version of the" tap" that the gymnast will use while swinging through the bottom of the full giant swing. Figure II also roughly shows the motion swing through the bottom that should be practiced by itself before trying the completed giant swing. If the gymnast feels pain in the shoulders, elbows, upper or lower back during the swinging motion shown in Figure II, the gymnast should probably not pursue this type of giant swing. Of course, flexibility training for the shoulders is important and highly recommended. Many repetitions of the skin-the-cat-and-return can be used to develop the strength and flexibility of the gymnast. This is

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

Figure III: "Toss" Drill

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

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

out the movement. Plan ahead so that you can keep contact wi th the gymnast's wrists throughout the swing without having to let go as the gymnast passes beneath the rail or starts the upswing. It is very important that the gymnast has performed many swings of the nature shown in Figure II so that she knows how to descend (i.e., drop off) if she does not make the swing all the way above the bar. The German giant is a difficult and spectacular skill. Since the distance between the uneven bars has consistently increased, the pOSSibility of performing these types of skills has come along with the apparatus changes. If you are in doubt as to how to proceed or encounter questions not addressed here; be sure to enlist the aid of a qualified men' s coach to help you.

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

General Gymnastics

Merchandise itnormation

'Event Coorainator: Amy Oler

Right to p ar ticipate in Team/Club display

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

Entry into all event sessions

JlwardS: The USA Gymnaestrada is NOT a competition, however, the LOC will p resent some special "fun " awards . In addition, every credentialled participant will receive a Participation Certificate, a Gymnaestrada T-shirt, and other sponsor give-aways.

J-{ost J-{ote[.Palm Springs Hilton Hotel 400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 (619) 320-6868 Rate information to fo llow

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

Participation Jee(s): Basic fee- $20 per par ticipant. This includes: Gymnaestrada T-shirt .

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

Palm Springs f1Jesert Museum Open daily 10am-4pm, Fri. Ipm-8pm, Closed Mon. $5 Adults, $2 Children 617yrs., $4 Seniors 62+ yrs. Art Galleries Natural Science Galleries Performing Arts Galleries (Annenberg Theater) hosts world class dance, theater & musical performances

Mesquite golf & Country Club 18 hole championship golf course Putting & chipping greens, driving range & pro- shop Snack bar & restaurant

%e Living f1Jesert (Wildlife & Botanical Park) Open daily 9am-5pm General Admin. $7, group rates avail. for 15+ w/adv. reservations Guided and self-guided tours avail. Colorful gardens, rare exotic animals 15 miles East of Palm Springs, 11/2 mi. S. of Hwy. 111 at 47-900 Partola Ave., Palm Desert,CA

Crecfentia[s: All registered participants will receive a credential permitting entry to all Gymnaestrada events and activities as well as other "bonus" values to be announced by the LOC.

fJicKf-tSa{es: The LOC will sell tickets to the general public for selected

Inaian Canyons Open daily 8am-5pm $5 Adults, $1 Children 612 yrs., $2.50 Seniors 62+ yrs. Group reservations, and guided tours available Beatiful canyons, hot springs, hiking trail, birdwatching

Wa{{y 's f1Jesert rrurtle Open for dinner 7 d ays & lunclyon Fri. Continental Cuisine

f1Jream 1'{igfits

Ditm er & Nightly Entertaimnent

(Hot Air Balloon Adventures) Group rates available by quote.

Located: 71775 Hwy 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

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

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

Ditmers from $8.95-13.95 plus tax

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

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

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Entrees from $16.50-30.75

General Gymnastics

(jenera{ Scfiedu{e NOTE: This tentative schedule is subject to chan ge. Watch for notification in future issues of Tec1U1ique.

%ursaay Daytime 1:00 PM Evening

J"riaay Daytime

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

For "early arrival" groups Tours and other sacializatian and fun! Golf Outing-Mesquite Golf Club. Tee-time at 1:00 PM. Info will be provided to all wha complete the form on page 26. Gymnaestrada groups will be featured guests and performers at the downtown Palm Springs "Village Fest". More information to follow. Groups arrive in the morning. Practice times will be available. Special educational workshops are planned. Early "Tee-time Gymnaestrada Golf Scramble" for the adults. Tours and special activities planned for the youth participants. Official Group check-in Opening Ceremonies Workshop sessions Social activity for all participants

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

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

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

9vfonaay

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

performances to be announced later.

:;{ost airfine: To be announced.

Performance Parame ters 1. Performance area-one (1) 42' x 42' competition-typ e spring floor will be provid ed centered in a basketball floor. There w ill be a "stage-front". The" stage-back" area w ill be draped. Groups w ill be able to utilize the floor areas to stage right and left of the spring floor. 2. Performance length (time)-Displays are to be a m aximum of 15 minutes . This includes entrances/ exits and the placement/ re-

All o ther equipment and props must be supplied by the Groups. (Remember that you w ill need to get all of this on and off stage quickly!) In General Gymnastics (GG) "equipment" might include h'aditional artistic gymnastics equipment as well as nontraditional equipment such as ladders, chairs, parachutes, and so for th. 6. Theme-Please focus on Amer ican and regional themes in the selection of your program music and characteristic movement choreography. Th is event is somewhat of a selection opportunity for Groups desiring to represent USA Gymnastics at the 1995 World Gymnaestrada in Berlin, Germany. All groups who plan to a ttend the World Gymnaestrada should focus on sho wcasin g American themes or unique regional themes. 7. Staging-Prior to eac h group's performance, they wi ll be pro vided with a warm-up and stagin g period just prior to their performance .

moval of any additional equipment or props. 3. Number in group-Suggested number is 10 or MORE per group, but groups of 6 or more w ill be accepted. 4. Music-Each group must provide a cassette to the LOC and an individual who can direct and assist the A V personnel. 5. Equipment-the LOC will provide the basic spring floor, and sound system. At this time, the member LOC gymnastics clubs have agreed to provide addi tional equipment (skill cushions, landing mats, etc. -please advise us of your need s so that we can begin work on this!) August 1994

(jymneastraaaShowcase (j a{a Performance(s) The Gala Performances will be open to the public. All registered groups will participate. In order to keep the Gala Showcase within a 1.5-2 h our time-frame, groups should be prepared for a five minute presenta tion. This can either be an excerpt from the 15 minute program or a program that is specially choreograp h ed for the Gala. If possible, US Gymnastics would ap preciate receipt of a videotape of your group when you register. This does not n ee d to be yo ur Gymnaestrada performance piece, but just something that TECHNIQUE

gives us an idea of what yo u do! This will assist us in form ing the p rogram for the Gala. All p ar ticipating groups participate in the Opening Ceremonies and the Gala March-in. Based upon the review of the videotapes sent to USA Gymnastics, some groups may be asked to provide a longer program for the Gala- this will be at the discretion of the LOC an USA Gymnastics.

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

What are the Objectives of the (jymnaestraaa Showcase? To promote the value and diversity of gymnastics to public community. To increase participation in gymnastics irrespective of age, gender, or ability. To provid e an incentive and motivation for recreational gymnasts to display their talents. To provide an opportunity for sharing of knowledge, ideas and new developments. To assist in the general and technical ed u ca tion of coaches.

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

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

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

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

Wfiat 'l(jnas of Performances (e{fiioitions) are Permissi6{e? Almost anything! Large and small group displays. Artistic gymnastics, educational gymn astics, dance, rhy thmic, aerobics, clown, and many other possibilities exist. Group participants may be male, female, or mixed groups of all ages- children to seniors. Th is can be a fan tastic activity for many of your Club members who don't get the chance to travel and otherwise participate in USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic pro grams. The participants don't need to be high level competitive athletes! Involve your total

yes, we are interestea! what sfiou{tf we ao ne{t? Don't procrastinate. Use the form on this page to add your Group's name to our Gymnaestrada mailing list to receive additional information. If you have a computer and a modem, join USA Gymnastics Online! to receive up-to-theminute information regarding GG and the Gymnaestrada.

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Research

Introduction Perhaps the most challenging land in g encountered by athletes is the landing of a gymnastics skill during competition. Gymnasts encounter a wide range of velocities, su rfaces, segmental config urations, and vis ual conditions prior to impact w hich may influence their ability to successfully execute the landing (Nigg, 1985; McNittGray, 1991; Sid away, McNittGray, & Davis, 1989). The hig h inci d ence of injury to th e lower extremi ti es of gymnasts (McAuley et a!., 1987; NCAA, 1986,1990) and those associa ted with dismounts (Riccardelli & Pettrone, 1984; Hunter & Torgan, 1983) is reflective of these demands placed on the gymnast during landing. However, to remaininternationally competitive, gymnasts must continue to develop and master techniques for safe and successfu l execution of aerial gymnastics maneuvers involving multiple rotations. A high incidence of injuries has been associated with the large forces and force moments encountered during the landing phases of aerial gymnastics skills (Andrish, 1985; Lowery & LeVeau, 1982; McAuley, Hudash, Sh ields, Albr ight, Garrick, Requa, & Wallace, 1987; Weiker, 1985). The floor exercise event has been associated with the greatest number of injuries (Garrick & Requa, 1978; NCAA, 1986, 1990; Riccardelli & Pettrone, 1984). The NCAA Injury surveillance data from 1986-1990 indicates 23 % of all injuries in men's gymnastics and 37% of all injuries in women's gymnastics occurred while gymnasts were participating in the floor exercise event. As more difficult aerial skills are learned, larger impulses during the take-off phase are needed to produce the linear and angular momentum necessary for successful completion and landing of the skills. For example, the angular momentum observed during flight

phase of tumbling skills progressively increases from 55.9 kg-m2/ s during a single back tuck somersault (Brugge-man, 1987), to 72.5 kg-m 2 /s during double back tuck somersault (Hwang, Seo, & Liu, 1990), and to 112.02 kg-m 2 /s during a double back layout somersault (Hwang, et a!., 1990). The generation of these larger momenta during the take-off phase also requires larger impulses to bring the total body momentum to zero with a single placement of the feet. Landings of aerial gynmastics skills have also produced some of the largest peak reaction forces encountered in sport (Nigg, 1985; Panzer, 1987) The peak magnitude of these forces have been shown to increase as the impact velocity (McNittGray, 1991) and skill complexity increase (Panzer, 1987). For example, landings of single back tucked saltos have produced peak vertical reaction forces of eight times the body weight (BW); w hereas, double back tucked saltos have produced peak vertical reaction forces exceeding 18 BW (Panzer, 1987). These impact forces have been shown to reach even higher magnitudes when the landing is W1controlled and the lower extremities are asymmetrically loaded (Panzer, 1987). Repetitive application of these large loads to the growing tissues of children may lead to undesirable adaptations of the tissues (Szot, Boron, & Galaj, 1985), as well as, acute and overuse type injuries (McAuley et a!., 1987; NCAA, 1986, 1990). Thus, safe execution of landings during both practice and in competition contributes to the longevity of the gynmast.

KINETICS OF SUCCESSFUL AND UNSUCCESSFUL GYMNASTICS LANDINGS Jill L. McNitt-Gray, Ph.D., Barry A. M unkasy, M.S., Michelle Welch, and Jacki Heino, P.T. USC Biomechanics Research Laboratory, Department of Exercise Sciences Universihj of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-0652

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

USA gymnas ts must improve their landing and tumbling mechanics to remain competitive, however, they must master these tasks without compromising the health of their extremities during interaction with the landing surfaces. August 1994 TECHNIQUE

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

Research

Figure 1

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

Backward Rotating Landings

(on tact

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

MovemenlDire(tion ~

SKILL

ReferenceSyslem

Under Rotation

PEAK

PEAK VERTICAl

Over Rotation

Step forward

Drop Front Saito Back Saito

FORCE

(BW)

HORIZONTAL FORCE

FORCE (S)

NEGATIVE

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

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

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

(BW)

HORIZONTAL fORCE POSITIVE

(BW)

5.7 B.B B.O

0.B7 1.4 1.4

0.05 0.04 0.04

0.007 0.004 0.004

-0.B4 -1.40 -2.1

0.2 1.1 0.7

0.11 O.Bl 1.40

0.06 0.34 0.45

Step Backward

Data Collection and Analysis: Fv

PEAK

PEAK VE RTICAL

egy. Landings performed with a single placement of the feet were considered to be successful (no performance deductions for steps). Gymnasts were encouraged to use their normal landing strategy and strive for successfullandings. Successful landings performed on the mats unsupported by the force plate were considered to be successful from a performance point of view. Force data reported for successful landings only reflects those landings performed on the landing mat fully supported by the force plate . The trials were blocked by task and randomized between gymnasts. During the same training camp at the USOTC, the same group of gymnasts were asked to land single back tuck and single back layouts performed from a run, hurdle, round-off, back handspring onto a spring floo r fully supported by a force plate (Kistler, 0.6 x 0.9 m) . The goal of the task was to successfully land using their normal landing strategy. Landings performed with a single placement of the feet were considered to be successful (no performance deductions for steps). Gymnasts were encouraged to use their normal landing strategy and strive for successful landings. Successful landings performed on the spring floor unsupported by the force plate were considered to be successful from a perfOl'mance point of view. The trials were blocked by skill and performed in ord er of difficulty. August 1994

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

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

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

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

Landings are difficult. Even the most accomplished gymnasts competing in the 1992 Olympic games demonstrated landing success rates under 50%. Landings alone may determine the outcome of the meet. TECHNIQUE

Research

Table 2

Figure 2

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

Note: Reaction force vectors represent the horilontol and vertical distribution the primary impulse INs/kg} applied during the 0.5s following

(

Forward Rotating Landings

initial contact.

(ontact VERTICAL IMPULSE DURING POSITIVE

HORIZONTAL IMPULSE

Movement Dire<tion

DURING NEGATIVE

HORIZONTAL IMPULSE HORIZONTAL IMPULSE

POIITIVE

NEGATIVE

(BWs)

fRONT Under rololed (slep bockword)

1.33

0.80

6.27

2.60

0.11

·1.28

0.65

Successful

2.00

0.67

6.10

1.90

0.13

0.07

·0.98

0.34

Overrotoled (slep forword)

2.61

2.00

2.90

2.10

0.24

0.19

·0.43

0.35

Solto

Successful

Referen(eSyslem

.-J

Over Rotation

Under Rotation

Slep Forward

Slep Backward

8ACK Underrololed (slep forword)

1.44

Successful

2.00

0.78

6.50

1.70

0.26

0.10

·0.87

0.26

Overrololed (slep bockword)

4.82

0.11

2.80

1.90

0.94

0.46

·0.30

0.25

1.10

4.00

3.30

0.18

0.1 5

·0.74

0.89 Fv

U.S. gymnasts need to improve their landing mechanics. Improved technique of preceding skills

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

Reaction Forces Mean horizontal and vertical reaction forces measured at the mat plate interface during successful drop, front salto, and back salto landings are provided in Table 1. The magnitude and temporal characteristics of these reaction forces are similar to reaction forces observed during drop, front salto, and back saIto landings performed by male collegiate gymnasts (McNitt-Gray et aI., 1991). In addition, the reaction force characteristics observed during landings performed in this study were in line wi th those measured during previous studies w hen landing at comparable velocities on mat surfaces (Bruggeman, 1987; McNitt-Gray, 1991; McNitt-Gray et aI., 1992, McNitt-Gray et al., 1993). The differences in peak vertical reaction force magnitudes between the drop and sal to landings is most likely due to the higher vertical velocities at contact observed for the salto landings as compared to the drop landings. Examination of vertical and horizontal impulse characteristics between successful and unsuccessful saIto landings (Table 2) resulted in distinct patterns

will enable gymnasts to create favorable mechanical conditions prior to contact. During contact with the landing mat, successful and unsuccessful landings demonstrated distinctive impulse characteristics. for under and over rotated landings (Figure 2) . During over rotated landings, the magnitude of the angular impulse applied by the vertical reaction force in relation to the horizontal reaction force impulse was insufficient to reduce the angular momentum of the body at contact. During under rotated landings, the magnitude of the angular impulse applied by the vertical reaction force in relation to the horizontal reaction force impulse was excessive in reducing the angular momentum of the body at contact.

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

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

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

Suggestions for Athletes 1. Landings are difficult. Even the most accomplished gymnasts competing in the 1992 Olympic games demonstrated landing success rates under 50 %. Landings alone may determine the outcome of the meet. Determine how landing performance has influenced the outcome of meets for both yo ur individual gymnasts and the

A. 29

Research

team as a whole. Compare y our teams success rate with those of Olympic Gynmasts.

. ~I

A. 30

2. D esign and practice a " landing compulsory" w hich ineludes a variety of landing conditions at contact (e.g. h-aveling backward-rotating backward, traveliIl.g forward rotating backward etc.) . Vary the frictional, deformation, thickness, and spring characteristics of the landing surfaces within the range your team m ay exp ect to encounter during the competitive season . Begin b y minimiz ing the liIl.ear and angular momentum at contact (e.g. low h eights, minimal horizontal displacement dming flight, single salto rota tions in tucked posi tions) . Progressively build to levels of linear and angular momentum commonly experienced dmingcompetition. With care, gain experience by landing skills under less than p erfect conditions (e.g. third tumbling pass, excess angular m om entum etc.). Respect the magnitude of landing forces exp erie nc ed durin g contact by making each landiIl.g count. Create a competitive environment to minimize the number

of repetition s n eeded to master landings.

References Andrish, J. T. (1985) . Knee injuries in gymnastics. Clinics in Sports Medicine, 1, 100-120. Bruggemann, G. P. (1987). Biomechanics in gynmastics. Medicine and Sport in Science. 25,142-176. Federation Internationa le de Gy mnastique. (1984) . Code of points. International Gymnastics Federation, Bericht, West Germany. Garrick, J. G., & Requa, R K. (1978) . Injuries in high school sports. Pediatrics, 6, 469-481 . Jackson, K.M. (1979) Fitting of mathematical functions to biomechanical data. IEEE Transac tions on Biomedical Engineering, 26, 122-124. Lowry, C. B., & Leveau, B. F. (1982) A retrospec tive study of gymnastics injuries to competitors and noncompetitors in private clubs. AmericanJournalofSports Medicine, 10, 237-239. McAuley, E., Hudash, G., Shields, K., Albright, J.P., Ga rri ck, L Requa, R , & Wallace, R.K. (1987). Injuries in women's gymnastics-the sta te of the art. The American Joumal of Sports Medicine, 15, (6),558-565. McNitt-Gray, J.L., Yokoi, T., & Millward, C. (1994) . Landing strategies used by gymnasts on different landing surfaces, Journal of Applied Biomechanics.

McNitt-Gray, J.L. , Yoko i, T., & Mi llward, C. (1993). Landing strategy adjustments made by female gymnasts in response to drop height and mat composition, Journal of Applied Biomechanics,9 (3),173-190. McNi tt-Gray, J. L. (1993). Kinetics of the lower ex tremi ty joints during drop landings fro m three heights, Journal of Biomechanics, 25, 1037-1046. McN itt-Gray, J.L. (1992). Biomechanical factors contributing to successfullandings, USGFSports Science Congress Proceedings 9, 19-25. McNitt-Gray, J.L., KofE, S.R & Hall, B.L. (1992). The influence of dance training and foot position on landing mechanics, Medical Problems of Performing Ar tists, 9,87-92. McNitt-Gray, J. L. (1991). Kinematics and impulse characteristics of drop landings from three heights. International Journal of Sports Biomechanics, 7, 201-224. Sid a way, B, McNitt-Gray, J.L., & Davis, G. (1989) Visual tinting of muscle preac tivation in preparation for landing, EcolOgical Psychology, 1(3) 253-264. National Collegiate Athletic Association (1986,1990). NCAA Injury Surveillance System Report: Mission, KS. Nigg, B. M. (1985). Biomechanics, load analysis and sport injuries in the lower ex tremities. Sports Medicine, 2, 367-379.

Panzer, V.P. (1987). Lower extremity loads in landings of elite gymnasts. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, University of Oregon. Riccardelli, E., & Pettrone, F. A. (1984). Gymnas tics injuries: The Virginia Experience 1982-83. Technique, 2, 16-18. Saito, S., & Yokoi, T.(1982) . Basic programs of cubic spline smoothing and digital filtering. Bulletin of Health and Sports Science, University of Tsukuba, 5, 201206. Weiker, G. G. (1985). Injuries in club gymnastics. The PhYSician and Sports Medicine, 4, 63-66. Zatsio rsky, V. & Seluyanov, V. (1983) . The mass and intertia characteristics of the main segments of the human body. In H. Matsui & K. Kobayashi (Eds.) Biomechanics VIII-B, 1152-1159. Human Kinetics, Cham paign, IL.

Acknowledgments The authors would like to thank Ron Brandt and Hideo Mizoguchi and their athletes for partiCipating in the project. In addition, we would like to thank Sarall Smith and her team of research assistants, Carla Coughlin, Tanya Porter, Dave Pease, and Steve Fleck of the USOTC and the under· graduate research assistants of the USC Biomechanics Laboratory fo r their invaluable assistance throughout the project. We would also like to thank Larry Fie and AAI for the donation of equipment necessary to complete the project and the USOC and USA Gymnastics for their financial support of the projec t.

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M494 L ___________________

Coaches Education

GRANDPARENTING ApPLICATION

'"ilia GYMNASTICS

<:» OQ

EEJ -

COACHES EDUCATION

Nome

Sst!

Address City

State

Phone (day)

(night)

Birthdate / / Safety Certification: PDP level Accreditation: ACEP Sport Science Course: Please select:

o o o

No No No OMens

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Upon completion of this form send to: USA Gymnastics 201 S. Capitol Ave. Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 Attn: PDP

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Additional Information (certifications, courses completed, additional experience, etc.) (pleose print or type)

T894

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

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

SCAREDY

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

CAT

gymnastics for us. Therefore, it is imperative that we look after our own safety. If we don't, serious

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

Kent Lewis 1414 PaLml10ld Circle West Fort Worth, Texas 76120

injuries are more likely to occur because we are not fu lly confident and therefore not wholly committed to what we are doing.

(817) 460-8216

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

s part of her introd u ctory remarks to a gro up of yo ung gym ts tr yi ng out for her team the head coach instructed them to attempt any skills they were told to try. " Don't be a scaredy-cat," sh e said. "We don't need any scaredy-cats. If you 're afraid, maybe you shouldn't be trying out for team." As far as I could tell, none of them h ad said anything to inspire these remarks. To be fair, the tone and demeanor of this coach indicated that sh e was trying to encourage rather than discourage the gYl1masts. Nonetheless, I think her remarks reveal an all too common misun derstanding about, and therefore an inappropriate response to, fear. Many coaches seem to respond to fear in gymnasts as if it were an impediment to learning. They act as if it were something to be bulldozed out of the way. If at ten d ed to, a gymnast's fear will m ake the coach a better coach and the gymnast a better gymnast. Fear is a warning signal that the gymnast or the coach or both are going too fas t . For the gymnast's own goo d they had better slow down. The requi-

Failing to listen to one's own feelings can have very serious consequences. When we fail to heed our inner voices, we abdicate responsibility for our own safety an d we ll-b eing. The simple truth is that we have to

do our own livin g. No one- no t a parent, not a teacher, not a coach-can live for us, grow for us, or perform gymnastics for u s. Therefore, it is imperative that we look af ter our own safety. If we don't, serious inju1'ies are more likely to occur because we are not full y confident and therefore not wholly committed to what we are doing.

site foundation skills are not solid en ough; they are too thin. The gymnast and the coach have more preliminary work to do. Either they are attempting too large a step or they need to improve some as p ect of the gymnast's fundamentals . Calling a fearful gymnast a scaredy-cat doesn't help . Nor does it solve her problem. It makes it worse because now, more than before, sh e is faced with conflicting command s. Some part of the gymnast's inner self is warning her of danger and warning her not to attempt the activity. Another part of her wants to master the skill and therefore encourages h er to go for it. A third part of her wants to please the coach. And a fourth partofherwants to h'ustthecoach and believe that hel she will not mislead her into injury.

See the top gqmnasts in the countrq compete for aspot on the National Team! THE 19 94 COCR'CO LR

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USA GYMNASTICS

Preschool

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

PRESCHOOL SURVEY

d RESULTS A. 34

Jennifer Gallahue Lee

Educational Services Coordinator

Introduction

Results

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

Forty-nine individuals responded to the survey from approximately May 15 to July 8 through USA Gymnastics Technique magazine and Online!

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

The survey was divided into three sections: The first section asked for demographic information (i.e., instructional role, preschool program location, educational background, specific college degree) . The profile of the individual responding to this survey is a preschool gymnastics instructor (Chart 1) working in a gymnastics club (Chart 2) with an undergraduate degree in physical education (Chart 3). The second section was given in a five point Likert Type scale with five variables. The levels of .responses were based on a scale of one to five. With one being the lowest and five being the highest rank of importance,

The educational development of preschool gymnastics instructors is crucial because their students are in the developmental stage where they are just beginning to discover how their bodies move and what skills they are capable of performing. What a child learns at the preschool age, has a very significant impact on their selfesteem, skill development, and their impression of gymnastics as a fun sport.

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

•

Pres<hool (oo(h/inlirucior

Pres<hool progrom dire<lor

Gymowner

.Olher

Chart 1-Role

•

Gym dub

S(hool

Olher

Chart 2-Location

60/0

60%

•

High s<hool

•

(ollege

•

Groduole

PollGroduole

•

Physimledu<olion

Olher

Chart 3-Educatlon

The second D Elemenloryedu<olion question referred • (ounseling/Humon relolionl to what USA Gymnastics could _ Susiness do to help your preschool gym- Chart 4-Major/ Degree nastics instruction and preschool programs. The large majority (96 %) suggested providing relevant arThe last section in this survey ticles in Technique magazine was based on a written response would be helpful. Also, proof four minimum requirements viding a newsletter and pre(i.e., age, educational background, school workshops (both 90 %) hours of experience, skills were noted as being needed. needed) for three entry levels of The las t question of this sec- preschool instructors (i.e., aide, tion focused on the d elivery instructor, master instructor). systems that were most effec- Following are the results of the tive for the education of pre- highest responses for each level school instructors. The respon- of instructor. dents believed that interactive experiences, clinics and work- Aide shops (both 88%) were the The profile for the Aide based most effecti ve deliver y systems followed b y manuals on the results of this survey is a 16-year-old who is currently in (71%) and videos (67%).

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Preschool

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

What kind 01 training Is important lor

preslhool gymnastlrs instrudors?

Instructor

100

your

preSlhool gymnast/rs instrudion programs?

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

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

Profiles Aide Age:

Educotion:

Master Instructor

100

What types 01 delivery systems are most elledive lor you?

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

Age:

Education: Experience: Skills:

Conclusion

The compiled information strongly suggests that there is a need to educate preschool gymnastics instructors and therefore their needs must be addressed. The data indicates that not only is safety an important component to the program, but also the need for practical workshops and clinics. August 1994

Update The Department of Educational Services and Safety continues its progress in the development of the preschool accreditation program. Following is an update on our progress: TECHNIQUE

ren ent Rcertified

., 9

USA GYMNASTICS MAKE THE TEAM: GYMNASTICS FOR GIRLS

EDUCATIONAL

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

PUBLICATIONS

To order any of these publications, use the USA Gymnastics order form on page .2. To receive a Technical catalogue, call USA

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I CAN DO GYMNASTICS: ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR BEGINNING GYMNASTS 1992 0 Hacker et 010 paper 0 139 pp 0 This is the student version of Sequential Gymnastics II. I (an Do Gymnastics includes check sheets where the gymnast can record his/ her progress in accomplishing the basic movement skills of gymnastics. Parents can observe their young athlete's progress as well as learn the terminology of gymnastics. The book is fully illustrated and includes helpful "What to practice" sections. Movement sequence activities include Across the floor, Over the vault, On the beam, Around the bars, and Rhythmic skills.

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Women's Minutes

.0.

WOMEN'S

o GRAM

AD d BOARD ~ CONFERENCE CALL

July 14,1994

June 22, 1994

The Confer enc e ca ll co mmenced at 12:00 PM.

II.

I. ROLL CALL

The purpose of the call was to finalize the changes in the 199495 Rules and Policies and the Operating Code.

Region I

Denise Porrazzo Region II Laurel Tindall Region III Carol Hillenburg Region IV George Grainger Region V Kathy Koeth absent Region VI Kathy Ostberg Region VII Jan Greenhawk Hoylene Noble Region VIII ABChairman Kathy Feldmann WPA Kathy Kelly Connie JOPC Maloney

COl\1MITTEE CONFERENCE CALL

RULES & POLICIES/ OPERATING CODE

In regards to the Operating Code, Article VI - Criteria for Nominations: Recommendation to add to the opening statement: "Special circumstances involving residency criteria for any State or Regional Chairman position can be petitioned to the Regional Board, in consultation with the National Administrative Board Chairman, if necessary." Motion : D. Porrazzo Second: H . Noble PASSED

Th e Conference Call commenced at 12:00 PM.

ROLL CALL

Region I

Darla Franz

II.

OPEN SCORING AT JR. OLYMPIC OPTIONAL COMPETITIONS

Region II

Mike West

Region III

Cheryl Jarrett (absent)

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

Region IV

Bryon Hough

Motion - E. Thompson

Region V

John Geddert

Second - D. Fran z

Region VI

Bob Colarossi (absent)

PASSED

Region VII

Kelli H ill

Region VIII

Elaine Thompson

Chairman

Tom Koll

NABC

Kathy Feldmann (absent)

Second - B. Hough

NEPC

Roe Kreutzer

PASSED

WTC Rep

Cheryl Hamilton

WJOPCoord . Connie Maloney

Conference Call adjourned at 2:00 PM.

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

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

June, 1993 The call terminated at 12:20 PM.

August 1994 TECHNI Q UE

Men's Gymnastics

CHAMPIONSHIPS STATUS OF NCAA MEN'S PROGRAM TO:

Professional Members

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

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

DATE: July 14, 1994 As many of you may already know, the Championships Status of the NCAA Men's Gymnastics Progran1 is currently in peril. Every NCAA sanctioned sport must have at least 40 participating schools in order for the sport to conduct a Championships. Currently, there are 32 collegiate institutions which sponsor a men' s varsity gymnastics program. There has been a moratorium in place for the past four years which has protected the Championships Status of the Program. USA Gymnastics is seeking to have the moratorium extended through the 1995/96 school year. A review committee convened by the the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors has been working to resolve this issue. You can

Mr. Cedric Dempsey, Excutive Director National Collegiate Athletic Association 6300 Nall Avenue Mission, Kansas 66202 I encourage you to take the time to write to Mr. Dempsey as it will have an impact on the NCAA' s final decision. In order for us to document these efforts, please send a copy of your correspondence to me at USA Gymnastics: Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Avenue, Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

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

December 8·11 ; ,1994 Oly~pic Training .(enter Colorado "Springs, CO

Featuring prominent Guest Stall Topics include: Sports Science -

Technical Presentations -

Sports Managem"ent

Judging

Registration Deadline is November 1, 1994 Workshop enrollment is unlimited, however, housing availability at the O.T.C. is limited to the first 50 registrants (first come, first served) < • ,. To be held in conjunction with the Junior National Team Camp (December 4·11,1994)

To register, send a letter to: Dennis Mcintyre, Ass!. Men's Program Dire(tor USA Gymnasti(s Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capital Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225 (317) 237·5050

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

., 9

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

Rhythmic Minutes

--------------~

Local Competitions

RHYTHMIC TECHNICAL COMMITTEE

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

Rules and Policies/Junior Olyml?ic Technical Manual! Technique Magazine It is the professional responsibility of

July 5-6, 1994 St. Louis, MO Present: Candace Feinberg, Chair Andrea Schmid, FIG Representative Diane Massad, Ellen Nyemcisk Helena Grea thouse Nora Campbell, Rhythmic Program Direc tor Absent: Norma Zabka, VP Rhythmic Gynmastics

Technical Committee Reorganization Proposal: To reorganize the teclmical committee structure of the Rhythmic Program as follows: 1. Nine member voting committee, eight elec ted members plus the USA FIG teclmical member. 2. Rhythmic Program Direc tor serves as non-voting member. 3. Eight members elec ted even numbered years by all fully certified 7/8 + judges. 4. Chairman is elec ted by committee members every two years and serves on the RPC. 5. Only Brevet and National level judges (including provisional) are eligible for election to the committee. 6. Each committee m ember w ill assume the leadership responsibili ty for one aspect of the r hythmic technical work. 7. Major projects (those involving more than basic committee work time) w ill be funded on a project by projec t basis by the rhythmic program w ith the program director determining the appropriate remuneration. 8. The term Junior Olympic Technical Committee w ill be eliminated until such time as the numbe r of ju d ges, coaches and athletes warran ts an expansion. 9. The judges in each Region w ill elect one judge (Level 7/8 or above) to serve as the judges assignment chairman for the Region . 10. RTC members elect a representative to the JOPC every two years.

11. All eligible judges w ho are interes ted w ill be requested to submit a resume for distribution to voters. 12. Committee election w ill take place in September, 1994 w ith the new comm ittee's first meeting in February, 1995. PASSED 6-0

FIG REPORT by Andrea Schmid 1. The judges for the 1996 Olympic Garnes w ill be selected by the FIG Teclmical Committee based upon the results from international judging. 2. Thirty-four countries have entered a Group in the 1994 Paris Cham pionshi ps. 3. The 1996 World Championships w ill be h eld in Budapest June 21, 22, 23. This w ill be a Group World Ch ampionships and w ill include a sm all number of invited individuals. 4. The n ew co mp e tition rules adopted at the FIG Congress will be in effect at the 1995 World Cham pionshi ps. 5. The FIG Technical Committee is currently working on the 19972000 Code of Poil1ts . USA judges are encouraged to send Schmid suggested changes and or clarifications by September 15.

Athlete Evaluations at Competitions

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

Competition Rules The Technical Committee recomm ends that at the 1995 Rhy thmic Challenge the follow ing rules be followed: Senior Competition III plus 2 Cs and 2D's each worth 0.30 Junior Competition II (senior rules) The Technical Committee recommends that at the 1995 East and West Level 9 and 10 Competitions both Junior and Seniors be judged by Competition I rules The Technical Committee recommends that at the 1995 National Championships the following rules be followed: Juniors Day 1 Competition I (senior rules) Day 2 Com p e tition II (se nior rules) Day 3 Co mp e tition III (sen ior rules) Seniors Day 1 Competition II Day 2 Competition III Day 3 Competition III plus1Cand 1D each worth 0.30 These recommendations will be su bmitted to the Rhythmic Program Committee August meeting.

Judging Training Videos

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

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

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

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

National Team Evaluation Schmid and Feinberg w ill conduct individual conferences w ith the top thre e senio r a thl e tes and their coaches immediately following the Olympic Festival.

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

The committee reaffirmed previous The Level 9 and 10 video (Feinberg, Respectfully submitted by Nom Campposition: If coaches want to include Greathouse, Zabka) is ready for final bell, Rhythmic Program Director stages of production by USA Gyma session of evaluation foll owing a competition, this session must be built into the competition I - - - - ' - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - . . L - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - . schedule and included in th e judges contract. Proper and meaningful evaluations are time consuming; therefore if a meet director includ es a n Level 6 RFX, Rope, Hoop, Ribbon evaluation session within the framework of a comRFX, Rope, Hoop (compulsory or optional), Ribbon Level 7 petition it may mean limLevelS RFX, Rope, Hoop, Ribbon iting the number of entries so that adequate time Rope, H oop, Clubs, Ribbon Level 9, 10 JR is allotted for evaluations. Meet orga ni zers m ay Rope, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon SR charge an additional fee 4 Balls (following the Championships in October) JOGroup for the evaluation session to cover the judges costs.

RSG ANNOUNCEMENT

Events for the 1994-95 Competitive Season

August 1994

TECHNIQUE

Rhythmic Gymnastics

How TO TRAIN FLOOR

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

PATTERNS FOR Two GYMNASTS

The creation of routines which are choreographed for two gymnasts performing simultaneously has been beneficial to all concerned parties. Young athletes are eased into the thought of performing by themsel ves in front of audiences, meet directors can allow more gynmasts into their events, and parents save wear and tear on their gluteus maximus. Coaches can also benefit by using the system during training sessions because it is a more efficient use of time. The key is for coaches to train their competitive gymnasts during workout sessions for the "2 on a floor" system. As long as coaches understand the dynamics of the routine, the two-gymnast format works wonderfully. Common problems may be solved by careful analysis of the floor patterns and attention paid by meet directors to the placement of judges and athlete march-in areas.

SideS

Rope

......• :.-;, .

.• ~. '.

Phrose 1

'-.

Phrose 2 Phrose 3 Phrose 4

--~-

Side 1

Evenl:

Slle:

~ljroup Cliampionsliips

.'_:'

Hoop '-"~~~:

Phrose 1 Phrose 2 Phrose 3 Phrose 4

...... -- - . ~

-------

~,--" ~ ,

C2 C4

SId.,

Side S

"'.-. • .>.

Side 1

SideS

Preliminary Com

I n:

Sunaay, Oct06er 30, 1994

Enlry Fee:

$100 per group 'Entry f ee entit{es group participants to attena a{{ (jymllaestraaa events alia participant activities Septem6er 1, 1994 and entry form call or write Nora Campbell at USA Gymnastics

August 1994

- - Gymnast #2 • Start

Phrose 1 Phrose 2 Phrose 3 Phrose 4 Phrose 5

Floor work focing Side 3. Full 360 turn focing Side 3. Directlrovelloword (orner 4. Bolonce focing Side 1. Floor work as wriHen.

• Finish

Ribbon

Phrose 1

•

Phrose 2 Phrose 3 Phrose 4

~ '~ ~,

Gymnast #/

:Fnaay, Oct06er 28, 1994

Final Compeillio

Enlry deadline:

As written. Run oround hoop 10 foce Side 5. Smoillrovel on colleop, slep hop. Direct loss toword middle of Side 3. Troveltoword middle of Side 3. -

Ball '-

to 6e fieU tnl 0'1), ttt tlOn wufi tfie 1994 (jy"maestraaa J{oop _ Junior O{ymplc CompetitIOn 'lVz{es '- . 4glrrs per grOilp • Pa{mSpnllgs, CJI.

Stort focing corner 8 to focilitote 0 full 360° lurn 10 Ror l. Trovelto corner 8. Floor work. Slep hop in oltilude moving bock olong the some line. I(onnol be shown. I

SideS

'I1it 1st 'Rjiyt

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

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

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

Level 5 Floor Patterns Modified floor patterns for LevelS were published in Technique (September / October 1993). In theory, each gymnast works only on half of the floor exercise area. Some confusion arose during the competitive season concerning the correct division of the carpet. It was discovered that RFX and Clubs require division parallel to Side 1; whereas Rope, Hoop, Ball, and Ribbon require division perpendicular to Side 1.

Paula Hilliker, Assistant Rhythmic Program Director

Side 1

II.

As wriHen, slorling closer 10 cenler of corpellhon originolly incicoted. Direct choine' lurns more toword Side 3. Floor work as wriHen. Direct ossemble's loword (orner 8_ Trovelloword (orner 8. As wriHen.

Level 6 The floor patterns for Level 6 are found at the end of each routine. The solid line indicates Gymnast #1 facing Side 1. The dotted line indicates Gymnast #2 facing Side 5. If training in the gym includes lessons relating to proper directional movement, undesirable interaction between competing gymnasts will be minimized. The following general tips should also be helpful. TECHNIQUE

Rhythmic Gymnastics

RFX

A. 42

The two gynmasts pass to the LEFT of each other (wrong way on US highways, correct in England). To facilitate this have the gynmast begin one step to the LEFT of the diagonal. Train the athlete to march-in from the corner 1-2, one step left and right foot behind to pose. Focus for the body circumduction and turn should be designated d uring the warm-up. Leaps and cartw heel should travel as far to the corner as possible. The tour jete and back walkover then follow the same line as the beginning of the routine. (LEFT of diagonal). Try marking a diagonal line from Corner 2 to Corner 6 on the floor and stress to the athletes that they are not to cross the line throughout the RFX routine if necessary. ROPE Remind the gynmast to start FAR A WAY fro m her judge. This should alleviate any spatial conflicts w ith the other gynmast. The Rope rou tine is choreographed w ith each gynmast using her own half of the carpet divid ed diagonally. Try marking the d iagonal if a visual aid is needed. HOOP The source of trouble in the hoop rou tine is the sagittal toss with split leap and cat leap . If this toss is misd irected, the res t of the rou tine is affected . The correct direction for the toss is to the RIGHT of the MIDDLE of Side 5. This w ill keep the gynmasts well to the right of each other for the boomerang roll and well apar t fo r the toss forward roll. With the exception of the final roll forward, each gynmast works on half of the floor divided from Sid e 1 to Sid e 5.

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

CLUBS No conflict. RIBBON The main problem area is the section incl uding foue tte hops, side bodywave and body circumd uction . Gynmas ts are working this section too close to the center of the carpet. It is necessary to begin the routine fur ther from Side 1 than indicated and to emphasize the importance of traveling for the tour jete. It is also quite easy for inexperienced gynmasts to lose their bearings during the split series on the floor, thus affecting the leap pass and final toss. When performed correctly, the knee over which the gynmast stands is pointing to the corner where the leaps will be direc ted. The gynmasts should then C4 Side 5 C6 . - - - -.-- - - - - - , pass to the RIGHT of each other during the leaps. The fl oor p a ttern for r ibbon would thus be modified as Side 7 Side 3 shown at righ t.

III.

Competition Set-up

With p roper training gymC2 C8 Side 1 nas ts can learn to work with ano ther athlete on the floor. Coaches can help by training the sal u te and m arch-in as part of the routine. Meet directors can also help by preparing a competition set-up w hich allows the gynmast to face the same judges table for every event. A detailed descrip tion of how this can be accomplished w ill be included in the 1994 USA Gynmastics Rhythmic Rules and Policies. Together we can all make a successful transition in thinking to the two-gynmast format. As w ith any system, growth d emands changes and rhythmic gynmastics is certainly growing.

JANUARY 1995 DEBUT!

USA Gymnastics is pleased to offer its member clubs a "golden" opportunity . Beg inning January 1995. our new retail sales program will offer member clubs the chance to provide the most fashionable Reebok速 active wear distinguished with USA Gymnastics' insignia. This exclusively designed product line will be sold to clubs at wholesale prices. making this special program a profitable fundraising opportunity. USA Gymnastics has a renewed dedication to member services. Take advantage of our commitment to club promotion and feature USA Gymnastics apparel and fitness clothing in your club and pro shop. For assistance, call our staff Monday-Friday (8:30 am-5:30 pm EST). We're available to answer questions, listen to comments and take suggestions. We'd love to hear from you!

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317.237.5060

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Yes! In addition to offering this exciting program and exclusively designed product, USA Gymnastics will help you with your merchandising business. Your first order will contain a marketing packaged designed with you, t he club owner, in mind. We'll include posters and point-of-purchase materials that are designed to grab the attent ion of your buyer. We'll send you periodic updates regarding the Club Sales Program. You'll also receive notices of special promotional merchandise and sales.

August 1994 TECHNIQ UE

Women's Judging

USA

Considerations:

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

GYMNASTICS JUDGES' FEE STRUCTURE (Effective August I, 1994-July 31, 1997)

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

invitational competitions, unless otherwise specified by the Meet Referee. A $5.00 fine will be deducted from the check of any official who does not report 15 minutes prior to march-in. B. Reporting time for those competitions requiring video analysis may be up to one (1) hour prior to march-in. The reporting time will be specified by the Meet Referee. A $5.00 fine will be deducted from the check of any official who does not report as per the contract. C. Fees are paid based upon the contracted march-in time until the last competitor of the meet has completed her exercise. D. A portion of the hourly rate may be broken into halves, not less. Round off to the nearest half hour (i.e., 9:01 to 9:14 will be considered as 9:00; between 9:15 and 9:29 will be considered as 9:30). E. The above fees will be applicable for all USAG Sanctioned Events unless otherwise specified in advance by the USA Gymnastics President. F. This Fee Structure is in effect for all USAG Competitions, as specified. G. If judging begins before the maximum allotted break time has elapsed, judging time begins.

II.

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

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

Travel

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

rate (29 cents per mile for 1994) will be paid to the driver only. Riders fees are not paid. Plane, train or bus travel expenses as stated on the contract shall be paid in full by the Meet Director. The total mileage cost should not exceed the cost of an airline ticket to the same location. Round trip travel expenses to and from the airport, airport parking, taxi or limousine service as stated on the contact shall be paid by the Meet Director. These expenses must be listed on the contract and be approved by the contracting official in order to be compensated by the Meet Director. Only standard and customary expenses with accompanying receipts will be reimbursed in the actual amounts. It is requested that judges consider carpooling whenever possible. If a judge chooses not to carpool for any reason, mileage will not be paid to that judge unless pre-arranged with the Meet Director. In the case of a competition spanning over two or more days, if lodging is provided to the judge by the Meet Director and thejudge chooses to return home and drive back the second (and successive) days, round-trip mileage will be paid only once, unless prearrangements have been made with the Meet Director. No other expenses (such as baby-sitters, car repairs, car rental, reimbursement for lost salary, or other normal work related expenses) will be paid.

III.

Lodging

If a judge must stay overnight prior to, during or following the competition, lodging must be provided and paid for by the Meet Director. The form of accommodation must be specified in the judge' s contract. Accommodations should be based on double occupancy.

IV.

Per diem

A. Day (local) meets

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

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

A. 43

$10.00 Diem-When on-site responsibilities are at least 3 hours but less than 8 hours. (Time begins with reporting time to include meetings and competition.) $20.00 Diem- When on-site responsibilities are 8 hours or more. $10.00 per meal (up to a maximum of $20.00 per day) is assessed for any meals not provided by the Meet Director. B. Overnight meets All meals not provided by the Meet Director are compensated at a rate of $10.00 per meal to a maximum of $25.00 per day.

Modifications

If any conditions on the contract are altered, it is the responsibili~ of the Meet Director to contact the individual judge(s) and the CONTRACTING OFFICIAL and provide that information to BOTH.

VI.

FLIPOVER

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

Name ________________________________________ Address _____________________________________

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D Gymnast/ age_ D Coach

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U&l~

Cancellation

If the contract obligations are not fulfilled by either par~ because of extenuating circumstances, no mandatory penalties will be applied to either party. Example:

Inclement weather (which would prohibit traveling) Grave illness

Failure to comply with the contractual agreement will result in the following: A. On the Meet Director's part: A minimum of 7 days notice is required for cancellation of officials. If cancellation of officials occurs less than seven days prior to the meet, the Meet Director is responsible for payment of 3 hours per judge and any non-refundable expenses incurred. B. On the Judges' Part If a judge fails to appear without notifying the Meet Director, a penalty of 3 hours and any non-refundable expenses incurred by the Meet Director will be paid to the Meet Director by the judge.

VII.

Hourly Meet Fees

Judges will be paid an hourly fee, according to their rating, with a minimum payment of two hours.

VIII. Championship Meet Fees Rationale statement: Due to additional financial considerations at these Championship meets, judges hourly rates will be lower than regular sanctioned competitions. The hourly rates are as follows, with a minimum of two (2) hours: A. Regional Championships Hourly Rate Rating Brevet/Nat'! Elite $17.00 Elite $15.00 Level 10 $13.00 Level 9 $11.00 Championship Meet fees will be paid at Regional competitions. State Meet fees may be negotiated by State Boards and the contracting official, but cannot exceed the basic fee schedule.

B. National Meet Fees-(J.O. Nationals, National Gymnastics Festival & Classics) Daily Rate Half Day Rate Rating $125.00 $60.00 All eligible

IX.

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

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

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

August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Women's Judging

Hourly Rate

Judging TIme

Brevet & National Elite

Elite

6-7-8

6-7

50.00

46.00

42.00

36.00

32.00

30.00

24.00

20.00

2.5

62.50

57.50

52.50

45.00

40.00

37.50

30.00

25.00

75.00

69.00

63.00

54.00

48.00

45.00

36.00

30.00

3.5

87.50

80.50

73.50

63.00

56.00

52.50

42.00

35.00

100.00

92.00

84.00

72.00

64.00

60.00

48.00

40.00

4.5

112.50

103.50

94.50

81.00

72.00

67.50

54.00

45.00

125.00

115.00

105.00

90.00

80.00

75.00

60.00

50.00

5.5

137.50

126.50

115.50

99.00

88.00

82.50

66.00

55.00

150.00

138.00

126.00

108.00

96.00

90.00

72.00

60.00

6.5

162.50

149.50

136.50

117.00

104.00

97.50

78.00

65.00

175.00

161.00

147.00

126.00

112.00

105.00

84.00

70.00

7.5

187.50

172.50

157.50

135.00

120.00

112.50

90.00

75.00

200.00

184.00

168.00

144.00

128.00

120.00

96.00

80.00

8.5

212.50

195.50

178.50

153.00

136.00

127.50

102.00

85.00

225.00

207.00

189.00

162.00

144.00

135.00

108.00

90.00

9.5

237.50

218.50

199.50

171 .00

152.00

142.50

114.00

95.00

Hours

Per Diem

Local 1

3-7

$20

8+ hours

/ 2

$10/ meal or max. of $25/ day

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

State Meets: Same as Local/Regional or negotiated Regional Championships: Brevet/Nat'! Elite

$17/ Hrs.

Elite

$15/ Hr.

Level 10

$13/Hr.

Level 9

$l1/Hr.

National Championships: Daily /2 Day

2 or less

2.5

3.5

Overnight

$10

$125.00 $ 60.00

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

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All fees are based on a minimum of 2 hours. August 1994 TECHNIQUE

Break TIme

Women's Program

IR. OLYMPIC OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS {EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1994) I

REQUIREMENTS

lEVEl 9 (INTERMEDIATE)

lEVElB (8EGINNER)

lEVEl 10 (ADVANCED)

VALUE PARTS

4 A's , 4 B's, 0 ('S

3 A's, 48's, I C

3 A's, 38's, 2 ('s

START VALUE

9.6 maximum

9.BMaximum

10.00 Maximum

80NUS

Not eligible for 80nus

Maximum of 0.20 80nus

Maximum of 0.40 80nus

DIFFICULTY RESTRICTIONS FOR 8ARS, BEAM &flOOR

"0" or "E" will VOID the exercise. "C" Gymnastics (dance) &/or aerostrength-balance elements are allowed. All other "(' s" will not receive credit.

No difficulty restrictions, however if a "0" or "E" element is performed, it receives "C" Value Part eredit and may fulfill compositional and Special requirements.

No restrictions

VAU LTS AllOWED

Group I &3 Vaults (Handsprings & Tsukaharas) valued at 9.50 or less. All other vaults are not permitted and if performed, would VOID the event.

All Group I, 2, &3 Vaults are allowed; however any vault performed that is valued at 9.9 or 10.0 will receive a maximum start value of 9.B. Gr. 4 (Round-off entry) vaults are NOT permitted.

All vaults from Groups 1, 2, 3, &4

8ARS: 10 elements *2 bar changes *1 flight element, minimum of "8" *Directional change not required *Minimum of "A" dismount

8ARS: 10 elements *2 bar changes *1 flight element, minimum of "8" I directional change Minimum of "8" dismount

BARS: 10 elements *2 bar changes 2 Flight elements, minimum of "8" I directional change Minimum of "8" dismount

8EAM: *Aero Series with I flight element Gymnastics series of 2 or more elements Mixed series of 2 or more elements (G/A or A/ G) Element close to 8eom 360 0 turn on one leg large leap/ Jump I Gymnastics "8" *Minimum of "A" dismount

8EAM: Aero Series with 2 or more flight elements Gymnastics series of 2 or more elements Mixed series of 2 or more elements (G/ Aor A/G) Element close to 8eam 360 0 turn on one leg large leap/ Jump I Gymnastics "8" Minimum of "8" dismount

8EAM: Aero Series with 2 or more flight elements Gymnastics series of 2 or more element Mixed series of 2 or more elements (G/ Aor A/G) Element close to 8eam 360 0 turn on one leg large leap/Jump I Gymnastics "8" Minimum of "8" dismount

flOOR: Gym series (3 elements, I minimum "8") Mixed series (3 elementsAGA or GAG) 2 Aero series I Aero series with 2saltos 3 different saltos *Minimum of "A" dismount

FLOOR: Gym series (3 elements, 1 minimum "8") Mixed series (3 elementsAGA or GAG) 2Aero series Aero series with 2 saltos 3 different saltos Minimum of "B" dismount

FLOOR: Gym series (3 elements, I minimum "8") Mixed series (3 elementsAGA or GAG) 2Aero series Aero series with 2 saltos 3 different saltos Minimum of "B" dismount

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS *Differs from FIG *Element Changes-J.O. ONLY 8ars #B.201

~ =C

#8.206

~ =C

Floor #B.306

J..Q.. "'

#B.307

9.9fi = D

#8.405

lli~ = E

#B.406

~~v =E

August 1994

TECHNIQUE

1" .:...

Calendar Date

Days Dis(ipline

Event

Lo(ation

Con tad

Phone

U.S. Classic Nationals Safety Certification (5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.) A5EP Coaching Principles (Fri.: 6-9 p.m., Sol.: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.) Age Group Devel. Camp Commonwealth Games Broadcast Hilton Challenge Safety Certification (12:00 noon-3:30 p.m.) Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) National Congress Coca-Cola National Championships Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) ASEP Coaching Principles (W: 8:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m., Th: 2-5:00 p.m.) Broadcast Coca-Cola National Championships ASEP Coaching Principles (9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) Broadcast Coca-Cola National Championships Safety Certification (1 :00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.) XII Olympic Congress

Palm Springs, CA Longview, WA Raleigh, NC Madison, AL Sparks, NV Raleigh, NC Knoxville, TN Colorado Springs, CO Victoria, B.C., CAN ABC Maple Valley, WA Penfield, NY Nashville, TN Nashville, TN Nashville, TN NashVille, TN NashVille, TN NBC Nashville, TN NBC Nashville, TN Paris, FRA

Kathy Kelly Leigh Eaton Gymcarolino Gymnastics Kelly Hughes Derrick Moellenbeck Jean Davis 8i1ly 80b Taylor Ron Galimore Galimore/ Kelly Julie Bejin Leigh Eaton Sarah Jane Clifford Amy Oler Steve Whitlock John Kirchner Amy Oler Dave Moskovitz Julie Bejin Dave Moskovitz Julie Bejin Amy Oler Becky Riti

317-237-5050 206-578-2042 919- 848-7988 205-837-7395 702-355-7755 919-790-9400 304-344-3279 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 206-578-2048 716-388-8686 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317- 237-5050 317- 237-5050 317-237-5050

SEPTEM BER 10 2 MW 11 1 MWR 11 1 MWR 11 1 MWR 16 3 M 16 1 MWR 20 5 MWR 27 7 W 29 2 MWR 30 1 MWR 30 1 MWR 30 3 W

Golden Sands Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) Safety Certification (8:30 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.) ODP Regional Evaluation Safety Certification (5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.) Pan Am Gymnastics Cup T.O.P. Notional Testing ASEP Coaching Principles (PDP IIHTh: 5-9 p.m., F: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.) Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.) ASEP Coaching Principles (9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) Region VMini-Congress

Varna, BUL Burbank, CA North Canton, OH West Allis, WI Various Sites Kirkland, WA Monterrey, MEX TBA Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati, OH

Galimore/ Kelly Jeff Lulla Bobbi Montanari Ralph Druecke Ron Galimore Leigh Eaton Campbell/ Galimore/ Kelly Kathy Kelly Vicki Hoggard Vicki Haggard Vicki Hoggard Vicki Haggard

317-237-5050 818-845-0700 614-457-1279 414-782-3430 317-237-5050 206-578-2043 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 513-489-7575 513-489-7575 513-489-7575 513-489-7575

OCTOBER TBA 1 2 15 2 1 2 1 6 4 14 3 15 2 23 1 27 4 27 1 28 3 28 1 *29 1 30 1

ASEP Coaching Principles (time: TBA) Asian Games Safety Certification (10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Safety Certification (11 :00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) Rhythmic World Championships ODP Notional Evaluation & JR Team Selection NationsBank World Gymnastics Team Trials Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.) Region VI Congress Safety Certification (6:30 p.m.- 10:00 p.m.) USA Gymnaestrada Safety Certification (8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon) Broadcast NationsBank World Gymnastics Team Trials Safety Certification (9:00 a.m.-1 :00 p.m.)

Richmond, VA Hiroshima, JPN Cherry Hill, NJ NewYork City, NY Paris, FRA Colorado Springs, CO Richmond, VA Augusto, GA 8oxboro, MA Boxboro, MA Palm Springs, CA Boxboro, MA ESPN Cincinnati, OH

Lindo Johnson Galimore/ Kelly Cathy Finkel Joan Hicks Nora Campbell Ron Galimore John Kirchner Mike Goodale Kathy Feldmann Kathy Feldmann Steve Whitlock Kathy Feldmann Julie Bejin Vicki Hoggard

410- 721-5853 317-237-5050 201-586-1808 203-924-8666 317-237-5050 317- 237-5050 317-237-5050 706- 738-6678 617-784-5830 617- 784-5830 317-237-5050 617-784-5830 317-237-5050 513-489-7575

NOVEMBER 9 4 11 10 MW TBA MW TBA W

Olympic Congress of the USA Team World Championships Chunichi Cup Catania

Nashville, TN Dortmund, GER Nagoya City, JPN Catania, ITA

Becky Riti Galimore/ Kelly Galimore/ Kelly Kathy Kelly

317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317- 237-5050

DECEMBER *1 4 W 4 9 M 15 7 MW TBA MW

T.O.P. Training Camp ODP Jr. National Team Camp Pacific Alliance Championships DTB Pokal

Tulsa, OK Colorado Springs, CO Auckland, NZL Stuttgart, GER

Kathy Kelly Ron Galimore Galimore/ Kelly Galimore/ Kelly

317-237-5050 317- 237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050

A UGUST 4 4 6 1 12 2 12 1 13 1 14 1 14 1 16 8 18 11 20 1 20 1 21 1 24 1 24 4 24 4 24 1 24 2 27 1 28 1 28 1 28 1 29 6

W MWR MWR MWR MWR MWR MWR M MW MW MWR MWR MWR MWR MW MWR MWR MW MWR MW MWR MWR

MWR MW MWR MWR R M W MWR MWR MWR MWR MWR W MWR

*tentative August 1994 TECHNIQ UE

I 0

No n-profit Organization U.s. Postage PAID Permit No. 7867 Indianapolis, IN

~ SAFETY CERTIFICATION COURSES 21

AUGUST 12

Madison, AL 10:00 am-3:00 pm Southern States Gymnastics, 106A Costle Dr., 35758 Course Oir.: Ricky Garcia (205) 970--0496 Local Contact: Kelly Hughes (205) 837-7395 Sparks, NV 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Gymnastics Nevada, 225 lillard, 89434 Course Oir.: Derrick Moellenbeck (702) 355-7755 Raleigh, NC 10:00 am-3:00 pm North Raleigh Gymnasitcs, 7221 Becky Circle, 27615 Course Oir.: Oonold Davis (919) 834-9380 Local Contact: Jean Oovis (919) 790-9400 Knoxville, TN 9:00 am-l :00 pm Knoxville Gymnastics Center, 5331 Western Ave., 37921 Course Oir.: Billy Bob Taylor (304) 344-3279 Local Contact: liso Collins (615) 588-2105 Maple Volley, WA 12:00 noon-3:30 pm Summit Artistic Gymnastics Academy, 23150 224th PI.SE, 98038 Course Oir.: Leigh Eoton (206) 578-2043 Local Contact: Debbie Israel (206) 432-9999

- - -

Penfield, NY 9:00 am-3:00 pm The Gymnastics Training Center 01 Rochester Inc. 2051 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd., 14526 Course Oir.: Sorah Jane Clifford (716) 388-8686 Nashville, TN 1:00 pm-5:30 pm 1994 USA Gymnastics Congress Local Contact: Amy Oler (317) 237-5050 Nashville, TN 1:00 pm- 5:30 pm 1994 USA Gymnostics Congress Local Contact: Amy Oler (317) 237-5050

SEPTEMBER 9

Conwoy, AR 2:00pm-6:00pm Sonshine Academy, 803 Horkrider, 72032 Course Oir.: Scott Wright (501) 327-7742

This course is to be held in conjunction with the Arkonsas State Coaches Meeting.

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

Name: Mr./Mrs./Ms. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Soc. Sec. # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ __ City: _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _S , tate: _ _ _ _ Zip_ _ _ __ Telephone: (H) _ _ _ _ _ _ __

DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE • FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

Organization Represented: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __

Check

o Visa

Mastercard

Name on Card:

~Pimb= Thre

Registration Form Received:

___

Si~'rure_________

This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VII Mini·Congress.

I 1

Cherry Hill, NJ 10:00 am-4:00 pm Course Oir.: Cathy Finkel (201) 586- 1808 Augusta, GA 9:00 am-l :00 pm Augusta YWCA Course Oir.: Mike Goodole (706) 738-6678 80xboro, MA 6:30 pm-l 0:00 pm Region VI Congress, Host Hotel, 80xboro, MA Course Oir.: Kathy Feldman (617) 784-5830 This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VI Congress.

_~ ___

livingston, NJ 9:30 am-4:00 pm Maplewood Gymnastics 01 livingston, 355 Eisenhower Pkwy., 07039 Course Oir.: Cathy Finkel (201) 586-1808 All courses are 3rd Cycle courses.

----------------1 Confirmation Mailed:

Numb.,

Richmond, VA Time: TBA Course Oir.: Billy 80b Taylor (304) 344-3279 Local Contoct: linda Johnson (410) 721 - 5853

This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VI Congress.

Course Director: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _

Form of Payment:

OCTOBER

If USA Gymnastics Member, List Type and Number _ __ _ _ _ __

This course is to be held in conjunction with the Region VMini·Congress.

checks:~ab:J

Please make infull to USA Gymnastics Safety J Certification Mail Registration Form and 1 Payment to: USA Gymnastics 1 Safety, Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol, India-

Course Location: _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date: _ _ _ __

Cincinnoti, OH 9:00 am-l :00 pm Eastgate Holiday Inn, 4501 Eastgate Blvd., 45245 Course Oir.: TBA Local Contact: Vicki Haggard (513) 489-7575

80xboro, MA 8:30 am-12:00 noon Region VI Congress, Host Hotel, Boxboro, MA Course Oir.: Kathy Feldman (617) 784-5830

napolis,~ 46225 1 ______ 1

(W) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

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

Participation Registration Form

North Canton, OH 9:00 am-12:30 pm Gymnastics 01 Ohio, 7241 Whipple Ave., 44720 Course Oir.: Bobbi Montanari (614) 457-1279 Local Contoct: Luke Price (614) 499-5572 West Allis, WI 8:30 am-l :00 pm Swiss Turners, 2214 S. 11 6th St., 53227 Course Oir.: Ralph Oruecke (414) 782-3430 State College, PA 10:00 am-2:00 pm Nittany Gymnastics & Dance, Inc., 2300 Commercial 8Ivd., 16801 Course Oir.: Michael Rizzuto (814) 238-8995 Kirkland, WA 5:00 pm-8:30 pm Northwest Aerials, 12440 128th Ln NE, 98034 Course Oir.: Leigh Eaton (206) 578-2043 Local Contoct: Patti Lantermann (206) 823-2665 Williomsburg, VA 9:30 am-l :30 pm Best Western Patrick Henry Resort and Coni. Center Corner 01 York & Page Streets, 23185 Course Oir.: Michael Rizzuto (814) 238-8995 Local Contact: Steve Garman (703) 698- 9163

All materials (including the new Safety Handbook) for 3rd Cycle courses are provided at the cow'se and are part of the course fee. Certification is good for 4 years. The course/examination is $100 USA Gymnas tics Professional Members and recertification is $75. Retestcost is $25. For groups of at least 10, contact the USA Gymnas tics Department of Educa tional Services and Safety.