Technique Magazine - September/October 1999 by USA Gymnastics

.\ ~

A LOOK AT ING MODELS • NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY: A TREMENDOUS SUCCESS· A WEEK BEFORE • CREATE A LEVEL 2-3 TEAM IN YOUR GYM DEBUNK,ING WEIGHT TRAINING MYTHS • PAN AMERICAN GYMNASTICS UNION SAFETYue •

ItWaA GYMNASTICS

www.usa-gymnastics.org

an official publication of USA Gymnastics PUBLISHER

Robert V. Colarossi EDITOR

A Look at Training Models .... ....... .............. ... .. .. .. .. .... .. ... ....... .... .......... ....... .. ................. 6

Luan Peszek

A Week Before ... ... ...... ... .... .. ............ ....... .. ........ ................... .... .. .......... ..... ....... .... .. ... 10

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

The 11th World Gymnaestrada in Gothenburg, Sweden ...... ..... ......... .. ... ... ......... ..... .... 16

Lian Cottrell USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR: Sandy Knopp; PRESIDENT: Bob Color05si; PRESIDENT EMERITUS: Mike Donohue; AMATEUR ATHlETIC UNION: Mike Stonner; AMERICAN SOKOL ORGANIZATION: Jerry Milan; USA TRAMPOLINE & TUMBLING: Ann Sims; AMERICAN TURNERS: Betty Heppner; JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTERS: Lori Katz; COllEGI GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION·M: Roy Johnson; NATIONAL ASSOOATION OF COlUGIATE GYMNASTICS COACHES FOR WOMEN: Goil Dovis; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORT: Mori~n Strawbridge; NATIONAL ASSOOATION OF WOMIN' SGYMNASTICS JUDGES: Yvonne Hodge; NATIONAL COllEGIATE ATHlETIC AsSOOATlON: Coro~n Lewis, Tom Dunn; NATIONAL FIDERATION OF STATE HIGH SCHOOL ASSOOATIONS: Suson True; NATIONAL GYMNASTICS JUDGIS ASSOCIATION: John Scheer; NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: John Brinkworth; SPEaAl OLYMPICS, INC.: Kate Fober-llickie; U,S, RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: Suzie DiTullio; U.S, ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT GYM CLUBS: Lance Crowley; U.S. ElITE COACHES ASSOCIATION FOR MEN'S GYMNASTICS: Fred Turoff; U.S. ElITE COACHES ASSOCIATION FOR WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS: Gory Anderson, Roe KJeutzer; U.S. MIN'S GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: Morc Yancey; U.S. SPORTS ACROBATICS FEDERATION: Bonni. Davidson; U.S. COMPnITIVI SPORTS AfROBICS FEDERATION: Howord Shcwortz; YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOaATiON OF THE USA: Vocon~ USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORS: MEN'S: Roy Gura, Jim Hol~ WOMEN'S: Undo Chencinski, David Holcomb; RHYTHMIC: Alia Svi~ky, Tomoro Gerlock; ATHlm's ADVISORY COMMlmE: Chlis Woller, choir; Vonesso Vonder Muym, vice choir, Joir Lynch, Mihoi Bogiu, Wendy Hilliord, Kim Zmeskol, Tanya Service{hoplin, Amanda BOlden. USOC ATHlm REPRESENTATIVE: Michelle Dussern>forrell.

:'/ ';.

FEATURES

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR: Sandy Knopp; PRESIDENT: Bob CO~lossi; SECRETARY: Marl: Graham; VICE CHAIR WOMEN: Joon Moore Gno~ VICE CHAIR MEN: TIm Doggett; VIC! CHAIR RHYTHMIC: Wendy Hilliord; FIG ExECUTIVI COMMmEE: Joy Ashmore; FIG WOMEN'S TECHNiCAl COMMlmE: Jackie Fie; FIG RHYTHMIC TECHNICAL COMMITIIE: Andrea Schmid-Shapiro; FIG MEN'S TECHNICAL (OMMITII!: George Be<ksteod; AT lARGE MEMBERS: Peter I'~mor, Suson True; ATHlfTI DIRECTORS: Tanya Service Choplin; Rhythmic TBD; Chris Woller; USOC ATHl£l1 REPRESENTATIVE: Michelle Dusserreforrell; PRESIDENT EMERITUS: Mike Donohue. CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: In order to ensure uninterrupted delivery of TECHNIQUE magazine, notice of change of address should be mode eight weeks in advance. For fastest serviee, please enclose your present moiling label. Direct all subscriplion moil to TECHNIQUE Subscriplions, USA GymnastiC!, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300, Indionopolis, IN 46225. POSTMASTER; Send address changes to TICHNIQUE c/ o USA Gymnastics, S. Capitol Avenue., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225. TECHNIQUf(lSSN 074B·5999) (USPS 016B72) is published month~ except bimonthly in Sept/ Oct and Nov/Oec by USA Gymnastics, Pan American ~o, Suite 300, 201 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225 (phone: 317·237·50501 or visit online@ www .usa·gymnastics .org Periodical postage paid at Indianapolis, IN 46204. Subscription prices: U.S.-525 per year; Conodo/ Mexico-54B per year; all other foreign counhies- 560 per year. If available, bock issue single copies 54 plus postogelhondling. All reasonable core will be token, but no responsibil· ity con be assumed for unsolicited material; enclose return postage. Copyright 199B by USA Gymnastics and TECHNIQUE All rights reserved. Printed by Sport Graphics, Indianapolis, IN.

Unless expressly iJentifieJ to the contrary, off articles, state· ments anJ views printed herein are attributed solely to the author anJ USA Gymnastics expresses no opinIon anJ assumes n. responsibility thereof.

National Gymnastics Day: A Tremendous Success ................ .. ............. .... .... .. ...... ......... 22 Create A Level 2-3 Team in Your Gym ............. ...... ... ..... .. .. ......... ........ .... ........... ......... 30 Debunking Weight Training Myths .. ... .. .......... ........... ........... .. ............ .. .. .... .. .. ..... ... ..... 31 Hershey Candy Sale .... .. ..... ..... .. ... ...... ..... .. ..... ...... ....... ............. ..... .. ..... ... .. ........... ..... 32

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

• VOLUME

19. #9

DEPARTMENTS

PROGRAM

President's Message ................................ 4

Ideas that Work in the Gym .... .... .. ........ 15

Pan American Gymnastics Union ....... .. ... 5

Men's Minutes .... .. ...... ....... ....... .. .......... 35

What's New .. ..... .. ........... .. ......... ......... 34 Classifieds ....... .... ...... .. .... ........ ..... ..... .46

1997 Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Book Errata ... .. .. .. .... ..... .... 37

Event Schedule .................................... 47

The Athlete Wellness Book ..... .... ........... 39

Safety Certification Schedule .. .......... .... 48

KAT Workshop Schedule .. .... ........... ..... 45

COVERPHOTOGRAPH OF GYMNAESTRADA : USA GYMNASTICS PHOTOGRAPHY © RON FOSTER

UPDATE

www.usa-gymnastics.org

The inaugural National Gymnastics Day celebration was a tremendous success across the United States. A big thank you to everyone who organized and participated, helping to increase the awareness of our wonderful sport. I would like to offer special thanks to Bela Karolyi, Chair of National Gymnastics Day, and all of our current and former National Team members who took time out of their busy schedule to take part in National Gymnastics Day in various markets across the country. Planning has already begun for the 2000 National Gymnastics Day. The date will be announced in the near future. Begin your planning now for next year's day of celebration! I attended the 11th World Gymnaestrada in Gothenburg, Sweden, July 2-10. Over 40 countries sent athletes to this international general gymnastics event. Congratulations to our U.S. delegation of athletes who performed extremely well and made an impression on many of the delegations from other countries. After watching the World Gymnaestrada, I can see the great potential this discipline could have on U.S. clubs. General Gymnastics truly is for everyone and could add more revenue to your club. The Pan American Gymnastics Union recently named new members to their organization at the PAGU General Assembly, including severa l U.S. representatives. The assemb ly took place during the Pan American Games this July in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. USA Gymnastics is proud of our newly elected PAGU officers: Gary Warren, Vice President of the North American Region; Steve Whitlock, General Gymnastics Committee President; and Simona Soloveychik Zakheim, President of the Rhythmic Technical Committee. Becky Riti wi ll remain Treasurer. I am confident that these members will represent our country in the best interest of all United States gymnasts. And the major gymnastics events just keep on coming . At the time of this editorial, I'm on my way to the John Hancock National Gymnastics Championships, National Congress, and Trampoline and Tumbling World Trials, all taking place in Sacramento, Calif. It should be a busy and exciting week of gymnastics. I hope you watched the national television coverage of the event, August 28, August 29 and September 12 on NBC Sports.

z eft

...

•

Congratulations to our men, women and rhythmic gymnasts who were members of this year's USA Pan American Team. Medals were won in all three disciplines for our country, including the all-around gold won by Morgan White in women's artistic gymnastics and the all-around silver won by Jessica Howard in rhythmic gym nastics. As we approach the fall gymnastics season , I would like to encourage all clubs to get involved in the USA Gymnastics and Hershey Chocolate Candy Sale. This is a nation -wide fundraiser which will benefit gymnastics clubs and support our long-time National sponsor. You can get more details on page 32 .

•... o z

Robert V. Colarossi USA Gymnastics President

- - 1 4 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - « r EC H N I QU E· VOLUME 19 • #9

) f - - - - --

- --

- - - - - -- -

"'O"'-."~

* * •

• *

UNION PANAMERICANA DE GIMNASIA

()f;> Q ' MNP.e'P.

The Congress of the Pan American Gymnastics Union took place on July 28-29, 1999 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, in conjunction with the XIII Pan American Games. New PAGU officers were elected during the General Assembly, and the results are as follows:

MEN'S TECHNICAL COMMITTEE President: Jose Echezarreta - Cuba Members: Steve Butcher - USA Javier Colon - Puerto Rico Oscar Buitrago - Colombia Marco Martins - Brazil

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President: Vicelia Florenzano - Brazil Treasurer: Becky Riti - USA

WOMEN'S TECHNICAL COMMITTEE President: Helena Lario - Argentina Members: Naomi Valenza - Mexico Terersa Oliva Perez - Cuba Sonia Sequera - Venezuela Isabel Lazlo - Chile

Vice Presidents: North American Region - Gary Warren - USA Caribbean Region - Rafael Reyes Ramirez - Dominican Republic Central American Region - Myriam Moncada de Lainfiesta - Guatemala Northern South American Region - Zobeira Hernandez - Venezuela Southern South American Region - Juan Ricardo Latorre Carmona - Chile MTC President: Jose Echezarreta - Cuba WTC President: Helena Lorio - Argentino RG TC President: Nieves Sansonetti - Venezuela General Gymnastics Committee President: Steve Whitlock - USA

RHYTHMIC TECHNICAL COMMITTEE President: Nieves Sansonetti - Venezuela Members: Simona Soloveychik Zakheim - USA Cecilia Juara Rosell- Cuba Maribel Rodriguez - Venezuela Vera Miranda - Brazil GENERAL GYMNASTICS COMMITTEE President: Steve Whitlock - USA Members: Malcolm de Freitas - Barbados Carlos Arturo Tello - Colombia Jose Carlos Dos Santos - Brazil

ÂĽ

... .

by Wm A. Sands, Ph.D.

Modern training theory indicates that there are at least a dozen models of athlete preparation with regard to volume and intensity. These models attempt to outline and describe the implementation of training loads so that the athlete is trained optimally. Volume is a factor related to how much the athlete does. Volume is similar to the milage of a runner, or the sets and repetitions performed by a weight lifter. In gymnastics volume is typically described as the number of skills performed. 16-=----- - ---------1(

TECH N' 0 U E â&#x20AC;˘ VO l UME 19 â&#x20AC;˘ # 9 )f------

- - - -- - - --

Intensity is the variable that indicates how hard the athlete is working. Intensity in gymnastics is described as the difficulty of the skills performed or the number of elements performed per minute. Unfortunately, past experience with the National Team Tracking Program has shown that coaches rarely use a recognized and effective training model in their athlete preparation (4-7). Typically, the gymnastics coach increases both volume and intensity in the final week(s) of training prior to a competition which results in excessive fatigue and unstable performances. Although there are many ways that an athlete's training load can be administered, increasing volume and intensity simultaneously is probably not a smart way to prescribe training.

Classical training theory indicates that the training load of the athlete begins with volume (how much you do) high followed by a gradual decrease, and intensity (how hard you do it) starts low and gradually increases (Figure 1). However, this method applies only to athletes of middle and lower level qualifications. For elite athletes, there is a serious problem in the large swings in fitness that are used in the approach outlined in Figure 1. For example, is it beneficial for an elite athlete to go from a condition of being almost completely out-of-shape to a condition of being almost completely in-shape and then

,.-' -- ,

/ /

FIGURE 1

/ /

---'

,. *'

INTENSITY

TIME

Typically, the gymnastics coach increases both volume and intensity in the final weekes) of training prior to a competition which results in excessive fatigue and unstable performances. ,

back again? This has been shown to result in a higher injury rate, probably due to the large swings in fitness. Is it okay for an elite athlete to practice skills and techniques at only partial effort? Again, this is probably a bad idea because the athlete should perform skills with near maximum effort to

.... ----. VOLUME

-----.""",. w C ::l

....

FIGURE 2

~ INTENSITY TIME

ensure technical perfection and virtuosity. Finally, is it wise to allow the athlete to achieve a certain level of performance only to systematically lose that performance level? It appears that once a level of performance is attained, it is probably silly to allow the athlete to abandon a large portion of it. The first model, shown in Figure I, is based on early attempts at training prescription by Matveyev (3) . Perhaps because this model was among the first to be translated and made available in the West, it has been followed without question by many coaches and athletes when other models may be more appropriate. Another model may be more appropriate for training high performance athletes. Zatsiorsky has offered a more specific model for the elite athlete by constraining changes in both volume and intensity to the upper levels of athlete capabilities (10). Figure 2 shows a modified approach to training where volume and intensity behave somewhat reciprocally, but the large swings in (continued on page 8)

- - - - - - - - - - - -- ---1( TEe H N' 0 UE â&#x20AC;˘ VO LU ME 19 â&#x20AC;˘ #9 ) } - - - - - - -- - -- -----=7=--1

A LOOK AT TRAINING MODELS (continued from page 7)

References fitness are constrained. The model in Figure 2 can ensure that the athlete is maintained at a high level. However, the nagging question of whether the athlete can tolerate even modest reductions in intensity without losing some of the "edge" built up over many weeks of earlier training is apparent. It is well known that drops in training intensity may lead to detraining (1, 2, 8, 9). The need to maintain the highest quality of performance while cycling the athlete's work and rest periods is difficult. This problem often appears most intensely when the athlete is nursing an injury yet must maintain a competitive fitness and attitude. A third type of model has also been proposed for the development of the elite level athlete, particularly for those athletes who must be "meet ready" most of the year. The third model incorporates a roughly constant level of intensity while volume is cyclically increased and decreased to provide alternate high and low demands so that the athlete can attain and maintain fitness while receiving opportunities for recovery. This third model should be reserved for those athletes who are extremely fit and able to withstand a long and intense training load. However, the third model may provide

the format for those athletes who are constantly competing with a means of achieving sufficient recovery that overuse type injuries are less likely. Figure 3 shows a diagram of the approach. The athlete's training quality is maintained via the method shown in Figure 3. The athlete rests/ recovers when the volume is reduced. Most frequently, the reduction of volume can be achieved by simply dismissing the athlete from training early. Of course, the coach may also use a mixture of these models depending on the period of the preparation. During the general preparation phase the athlete may use the first model. During specific preparation and precompetition phases the athlete may use the second model. Finally, during the competitive phase the athlete may need the third model. It has seldom been addressed that training model approaches can be mixed, and that a number of different training models exist. It will be continually important for the coach to gain experience and knowledge about these models so that a larger repertoire of training approaches can be used for particular athletes and circumstances . •

1. FlECK, S. 1. Detraining: Its effects on endurance and strength. Str. and Condo 16(1): 22·28,1994. 2. KOUTEDAKIS, Y., C. BOREHAM, C. KARITSIS, AND N. C. C. SHARP. Seasonal deterioration of selected physiological variables of elite male skiers. Int. J. Sports Med. 13(7): 548551,1992. 3. MAlVEYEV, l. Fundamentals of sports training. Moscow, USSR: Progress Publishers, 1977. 4. SANDS, W. A. Fragen zum training der nationalmonnschaft der US-Junioren (Frauen) im kunstturnen. In: Leistungsturnen im kindesalter, edited by U. Gohner. StuHgart, Germany: Internationaler Turnerbund (FIG) und das Orgonisationskomitee Weitmeisterschaften im KunsHurnen StuHgart 1989, 1990, p. 81-96. 5. SANDS, W. A. National women's tracking program pt. 2- response. Technique 10: 23-27,1990. 6. SANDS, W. A. Monitoring elite gymnastics athletes via rule based computer systems. In: Masters of Innovation III, 3rd ed. Northbrook, IL: Zenith Data Systems, 1991, p. 92. 7. SANDS, W. A. Monitoring the elite femole gymnast. Nat. Strength Conditioning Assoc.J. 13(4): 66-71,1991.

INTENSITY

------- _ -

8. STARON, R. S., M.1. LEONARDI, D. l. KARAPONDO, E. S. MAUCKY, 1. E. FALKEl, F. C. HAGERMAN, AND R. S. HIKIDA. Strength and skeletal muscle odaptations in heavy resistance-trained women after detraining and retraining. J. Appl. Physiol. 70(2): 631 -640,1991.

FIGURE 3 9. VERHOSHANSKY, U. V. The long-lasting training effect of strength exercises. Soviet Sports Rev. 20: 91 -93,1985. 10. ZATSIORSKY, V. M.Science and pradice of strength training. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 1995.

TIME .....-a- - -- - - - - - - - - - - - {( r EC H N IOU E

• VO LUM E 19 • 19

)>---- - - -- - -- - - - - - -

THE

by Wm A. Sands, Ph.D.

he week prior to the competition is an important and challenging management issue for coaches and athletes. The last week prior to the competition sets the stage both physically and psychologically for the competition. Seldom can the status of the athlete be improved so late in the preparation of the athlete. but a great deal of harm can be done.

--1-1-0 - - - - - - - - - - -- -----{(

Past experience has shown that gymnastics coaches tend to delay specific competition preparation until just before the competition (3-6). The result of such a practice is increased fatigue, increased irritability, and instability of performance. Sadly, a gymnast may perform well from time to time under such an approach, but the performances will be unstable-meaning that the gymnast will be inconsistent from one competition to the next or even one event to the next. This phenomena is often responsible for the frustrating and mysterious lack of consistency shown by inexperienced gymnasts (2).

Prepare Early Gymnasts should perform their competitive routines for some weeks prior to a specific competition. As a rule of thumb, the gymnast needs to perform routines at least six weeks prior to the competition (2). This gives the gymnast time to stabilize the performance and achieve a certain level of familiarity that nothing but sheer

TEC H N 10 U E â&#x20AC;˘ VOLU ME 19 â&#x20AC;˘ #9 )}--

- - - - - --

----

repetition will accomplish. As the Code of Points has evolved, the use of "brute-force" repetitions has become more difficult and perhaps increasingly dangerous due to the increased use of high difficulty elements and combinations. Thus, it is even more important that the gymnast begin routine preparations early so that a longer and more "gentle" progression of routine-specific fitness can be acquired. It has been shown that a longer development period results in more stable and more durable performances later ( 7). Ideally the gymnast should perform routines that are well learned and well within the abilities of the gymnast. If the gymnast is performing skills and combinations too close to the edge of his/her performance envelope, the more likely the gymnast will falter due to anxiety and the associated distraction. Moreover, the gymnast who is not confident of his/her routines often becomes easily distracted due to an apparent need to find anything to think about other than the fear evoked from routines perceived more as

a threat than an opportunity. There have been numerous anecdotal reports of observations of foreign gymnasts using the same routines for several years, and of gymnasts being capable of doing skills considerably more difficult than the skills they actually competed. As an example, if the gymnast was required to perform routines with elementary skills (for that gymnast), then would the gymnast feel as threatened by the routine performance as compared to routines that are chocked full of difficulty forcing the athlete to rely partially on luck to perform the routine well? Perhaps the biggest asset to self-confidence is performing skills that the gymnast perceives as easy. The foremost goal of the final week of training is to avoid injuring the athlete physically and/or psychologically. Often, as the competition approaches, the coach begins to portray as much or more anxiety than the gymnast. The coach should portray an image of calm readiness. (continued on page 12)

THE WEEK BEFORE (continued from page 11)

Gymnasts can sense the anxiety of the coach and begin to assume that anxiety themselves. Overcoaching by increasing training loads inappropriately, making unreasonable demands, long and boring lectures, and so forth can deflate the enhanced self-confidence of the gymnast by making the gymnast doubt his / her ability. One way of using the last several days prior to a competition productively is to rehearse various aspects of the competition. Assuming the athlete's routines are adequately prepared and the athlete is fit enough to perform the routines without much anxiety, then the final week prior to the competition can be used to make last minute adjustments and prepare the athlete for any contingencies present at the specific competition. The tasks of the final week prior to the competition consist of perfecting skills and routines, and preparing for the specific demands of the competition. The coach and athlete should attempt to model some aspects of the specific competition so that the athlete is merely familiar with the specific tasks to be accomplished. For example, using a timed warm up prior to routine practice is a good way of getting the athlete accustomed to the constrained time that is available for skill rehearsal and preparation. If athlete-numbers will be used, the athlete should wear a number during training. If the competition takes place during the morning, then one or more practices should also take place in the morning. Because these tasks may not be familiar to the athlete, he/she may falter during these simulations. However, it is still valuable to experience them. If the gymnast falters in practice when experiencing the new tasks for the first time, he / she will almost always perform these

Meet Day-6

Meet Day-5

Meet Day-4

tasks better and more confidently the second time around. Experience has shown that the performance during these tasks is not very predictive of the performance in the actual competition, but failure to practice these tasks usually creates undue stress and fear during the competition.

Training Load Figure 1 shows an example of the training load distribution for the final week before an important competition. The importance of the approach diagramed in Figure 1 lies in the placement of the training loads so that the athlete experiences the highest loads several days prior to the important contest. In addition, the athlete has an opportunity to rest/ recover prior to the specific competition. Finally, the athlete does not approach the competition too rested, or too fatigued. As depicted, the training load is increasing as one approaches the competition, but the load is not maximal. It is generally obvious that the athlete should not be overly fatigued leading up to the competition. On the other hand, coaches seldom appreciate that the athlete should also not be too rested prior to the competition so that he / she is faced with a high level of unfamiliar excess energy. One should strive to achieve a state of preparedness immediately prior to the meet which is similar to the athlete's typical state during a high achieving practice session. Rarely are the best practice sessions seen when the athlete has been rested for a long period. Usually the athlete returns from a rest/ recovery period with either excess energy, or a sort of sluggish inertia that prevents the athlete from performing sharply. Both of these conditions result in an unfamiliar

Meet Day-3

Meet Day-2

Meet Day-l

Meet Day

High

Medium

-Z Z

...

I___=-,-=2-

Low None

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 ( TEC H N IOU E â&#x20AC;˘ VOLUM E 19 â&#x20AC;˘ #9 )}--

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

"feeling" for the gymnast and a distraction that is unsettling. In short, experience has shown that athletes should be increasing their training load prior to the competition without invoking too much fatigue .

References

One can control the training load of the last moment preparation by constraining training time. Because the athlete should avoid fatigue without reducing training intensity, the practice session should be shortened to ensure that high quality work is performed without incorporating a large volume of work. Because the gymnast and coach are anxious for the upcoming competition, it seems natural that they will tend to overwork in an attempt to fix the rough edges of skills. While some "perfecting" should occur, it is a mistake to increase training volume during the immediate competition preparation because of the fatigue that such an approach will cause. Injuries have been shown to increase during the final weeks prior to an important competition (1). Therefore, it is wise to err on the side of too little work, rather than too much.

2. SANDS, B. Coaching women's gIJmnastics. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 1984.

Successful gymnastics performance relies on optimization of the athlete's fitness, skills, and psychological state. All of these factors are interactive, with each influencing the other. The astute coach understands and appreciates the role of the final preparations for a competition, and takes steps to ensure that the athlete is optimally prepared . •

1. KERR, G., AND H. MINDEN. Psychological factors related to the occurrence of athletic injuries, J. Sport Exer. Psy. 10: 167-173, 1988.

3. SANDS, W. A. Fragen zum training der nationalmannschaft der US-Junioren (Frauen) im kunstturnen. In: Leistungsturnen im kindesalter, edited by U. Gohner. Stuttgart, Germany: Internationaler Turnerbund (FIG) und das Organisationskornitee Weltrneisterschaften im Kunstturnen Stuttgart 1989,1990, p. 81-96. 4. SANDS, W. A. National women's tracking program pt. 2-response. Technique 10: 23-27, 1990. 5. SANDS, W. A. Monitoring elite gymnastics athletes via rule based computer systems. In: Masters of Innovation III, 3rd ed. Northbrook, IL: Zenith Data Systems, 1991, p. 92. 6. SANDS, W. A. Monitoring the elite female gymnast. Nat. Strength Conditioning Assoc. J. 13(4): 66-71, 1991. 7. VERKHOSHANSKY, Y. V. Programming and organization of training. Moscow, U.s.S.R.: Fizkultura i Spovt; Translated by A. Charniga, Published by Sportivny Press, Livonia, MI, 1988, 1985.

Curriculum Poster Reward System • Proven Effective in Building Enrollment Retention • Provides a SAFE and Progressive Teaching System • Sets ACHIEVABLE Goals • Motivates Parents and Students • Keeps Records of when Skills are Passed • Valuable for Measuring Teacher Efficiency

Jeff Lulla is a member of the USAG Preschoo t Advisory Board and co·author of the Kinder Accreditation for Teachers (KAT) course. He is also a USAG National Safety Instructor, an industry consultant, and is a seminar presenter for the USAIGC, and USA Gymnastic s. He own s two successful gyms in Southern Calilorni a.

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

RECOGNIZING OUR UCENSEES ... SiHcet994 Go For It - Las Vegas, NV North Crest Gymnastics & Dance Peoria, IL {JW/, J\lew ../!icendeeA. .. Newtown Athletic Club Andrea Biernbaum The Fun Gym - Jared Jenkins Connie's Dance & Gymnastics Connie Burton

For Details, FREE VIDEO, Information and Samples, call (800) 800-3162 Now find us on the Internet at http://www.usa-gymnastics.org/ads/funfitl

Our Consignment Program has already

Your packages are specifically tailored

helped hundreds of pro shops across

to your gym's needs, including styles,

the country become successful and

quantity and sizes. Since you only

profitable. Why not choose the

pay for what you have

GK Consignment Program for

sold and may return

your pro shop and start

the rest of the

earning extra profits with ...

package there is...

NO INVESTMENT & NO RISK!

NO INVESTMENT & NO RISK! In addition to receiving

The Consignment Program offers packages for...

consignment merchandise at wholesale

PRO SHOPS. MEETS路 SUMMER CAMPS

prices, you'll be able to purchase all GK

With each consignment package, you will receive a

products including team apparel at our low wholesale

new assortment from our variety collection, shown

prices too! For more information on how you can get started

on pages 19 through 21 of the GK Team Workout Catalog.

just call our customer service department at 1-800-345-4087.

Visit Our Website:

www;gk-elitesportswear.com On Line Ordering Ava il able

OFFICIAL

SUPPLIER

USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program

G K - E li t e S p 0 r t s w e a r . L. P. . p. O . Box I 6 4 0 0 . R ea din g. PAl 9 6 I 2 6 4 0 0 . P h 0 n e: 1路 8 0 0 . 3 4 5 . 4 0 8 7 . Fax: 1路 6 1 0 . 9 2 I . 0 2 0 8 E-Ma il : c ustom e r se r v i ce@g k e lit e.com . Web S it e: www.g k 路e li t es p o rt swea r. co m

Your pit doesn't have to be just boring pieces of foam! Jeff and Julie LaFleur from LaFleur's Gymnastics in Tampa, Fla., have covered each of their pieces of foam from the pit in the bright and fun -colored material. "ju lie's mom, Carol Simmons, created the pattern for the covered foam cubes," said Jeff. " It was sort of my idea because all the tiny tots would play in the pit and end up with foam pieces in their hair and on their leotard . I thought it would be great if we had a place for them to play in the foam without that problem." The kids love to "play" in the pit and look forward to each and every gymnastics class!

To receive a FREE catalog ... phone:

1·800 ·345·4087

fax:

1·610 ·921·0208

customerservice@gkelite.com or requ est a catalog through our web site: www.gk·elitesportswear.com

e·mail:

OF FI CIAL SUPPLIER TO

USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program El ite Spo rr s wear, L.P . . P. O. Box 16400 · Read in g, PA 1961 2·64 00

11TH

WORLD GVmnnESTRnDn Gothenburg,

~weden

s choreographer of the USA part of the Closing Ceremonies for the 11th World Gymnaestrada in Gothenburg, Sweden, I was very happy to join the other USA delegation members on July 2nd in Gothenburg. Although a bit weary after more than 20 hours traveling, our first leader meeting went well. I started to get a sense of the city and the tasks ahead. Steve Whitlock, USA Delegation Leader, had forewarned us to expect the unexpected and be prepared for all sorts of miscommunications. Our initiation into "Murphy's Law" came upon arriving at our practice gym, where we found it locked tightly. We soon learned that the true location would require a 3~-minute walkthis later came to be known as the "Long March." In spite of the mistake, everyone was in a great mood and made the trek successfully. It must have been quite a site for the local residents to see nearly 400 Americans marching 6-abreast dovm their suburban streets! The practice gym was very small compared to the stadium where the Closing Ceremony would take place, but it was adequate for the first rehearsal. The gymnasts and their Group Leaders were very helpful, and - - - - - - - - - - - -- -----1(

we made fantastic progress for this first time EVER to rehearse together. On the evening of July 3rd, our delegation attended a "USA Welcome Party" at a restaurant with hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, baked beans, etc. Everyone had a great time-this was, after all, our 4th of July celebration. The next day, the U.S. Delegation was set to march in the Opening Ceremonies at Ullevi Stadium, a soccer field for 50,000-60,000 fans. It wasn't hard to find one another. As I neared the location I spotted an American cheerleader floating high above the crowd ... then ~nother... and then another! The USA Delegation mcluded a group of the mightiest and bravest cheerleaders ever from the United Cheerleaders Association (UCA). While many thousands of gymnasts waited around on an asphalt school playgrow1d, different countries entertained the throngs with acrobatic skills that co:ud be seen or heard from afar such as 3-5 high pyranuds, hand to hands or rhythmic clapping and chanting. The American cheerleaders were in a class by themselves with their tremendous tosses. (continued 071 page 18)

TECH N IOU E â&#x20AC;˘ VOLU ME 19 â&#x20AC;˘ #9 )r---------------~

171

THE 11TH WORLD GYMNAESTRADA

(continued from page 17)

countries, all the delegations had to stand on the field for a long time while some distinguished people gave speeches. We couldn't see much nor could we hear much. It was a relief to finally get to march around the inside of the stadium and into our assigned seats to watch the show. The next day I attended the Scandinavian evening as Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland and Finland displayed their finest choreography for a sold-out audience. This was an extremely satisfying and artistic production with displays not only of youthful exuberance and athleticism, but also the maturity and wisdom of middle-aged and elderly performers who touched our hearts with humor and tenderness. Most notable were the beautiful rhythmic girls from Malmo, Sweden, juggling three rhythmic balls while dancing fluidly and never missing a beat and the incredibly humorous and active men from Rytmgubbarna, another Swedish group with men ranging in age from 50-80. Wow! The English Speaking Nations' Evening that the USA shared with Australia, Canada and Great Britain went great as well. Both shows were sold out and well received by the packed house.

These brave young ladies not only have great talent for flipping and twisting, but unbelievable trust in their companions to catch them on their return to earth. It certainly helped the time pass enjoyably for us, the 4,300 Swiss, and assorted others waiting with us whose country name starts with a letter at the end of the alphabet. After about 2-hours of waiting, we finally started our march into the stadium. Although it was memorable to march into such a large stadium with over 21,000 gymnasts from 40

.-.-=-'-=-a- - - - - - -- --------{(

TECH N IOU E â&#x20AC;˘

va l UM E 19

On July 6, I was free in the morning to visit various performances in Svenska Massan. With eight halls running simultaneously and different displays scheduled every 20 minutes, it was quite impossible to see everything. I managed to see performances by groups from six different countries. I watched groups from the Czech Republic (Sokol tradition being in harmony with the Gymnaestrada philosophy), Brazil (great acrobatics and sensuous, uninhibited dancing including the martial art of Capoeira and fabulous samba music), Portugal (the funniest clowns I've seen in a long time), and also Japan, Canada and a USA group which represented our country well. Later that evening, I enjoyed the Swiss National Evening. Switzerland, with over 4,000 participants, had the largest WG delegation. For the rest of the week I continued to watch groups

â&#x20AC;˘ #9 )>---- - - --

- - - - - - -- -

from many countries during the day. An Egyptian group was made up of approximately a dozen boys (roughly 10-13 years of age) who performed very traditional gymnastics exercises with arm moves, swings, kicks, squats and basic tumbling. Besides their bright smiles and obvious discipline, the routine was quite memorable because the music was a solo piano played very rhythmically. I heard wonderful reports about groups from Belgium, Germany and Italy, but as I said, it was impossible to see more than a slice of the whole pie. This is one reason the "National Evening" shows are importantthese shows provide a chance for individual countries to showcase their best and most unique talents. On Wednesday evening I attended the sold-out Japanese Evening entitled "Groove Fantasy!" The music for the whole evening was composed by Tatsuo Araki of Nittaidai University and began with a very inspirational song, "You Can Do It" sung by 1984 Olympic high bar champion, Shinji Morisue. The evening provided beautiful dancing, costumes, and outstanding acrobatics. Towards the end of the evening we were literally astounded by six male gymnasts from Kokushikan University who performed synchronized men's floor exercise to music on a wooden floor with incredible precision and high technical ability. The six of them moved like one being, with high tumbling, precise kicks, lunges, jumps and turns-it was breathtaking-certainly one of the highlights of the 1999 Gymnaestrada. The next two days I was happy to perform as part of the USA's large group outdoor performance, "Imagination," choreographed by Paula Lord. It was great fun to be on the other side of the audience. The performance was well received. It is an unique aspect of the World Gymnaestrada that the majority of the audience are also performers. All the performing groups have very appreciative and understanding audiences. After the "Imagination" performance, I rushed to the first of two more National Evening shows. Portugal is the host for the World Gymnaestrada in 2003. They put their best foot forward with an artistic evening that presented their culture through the filters of the Sea, the Sun and the Land. This was the only National Evening I saw which had such a coherent artistic theme. The dancing was superb and professionally staged. The acrobatics were breathtaking, especially the rapid-fire vaulting. After this magnificent show, I wandered across the street to a different theater to watch the hip swinging, samba dancing, sensuous, happy, acrobatic, rhythmic and joyful Brazilians show off their best. This was a brilliant show. I especially enjoyed the anti-war sentiments of Henrique Sanioto's troupe from Araraquara, danced to Handel's Hallelujah Chorus, with a message of peace for the world. Also notable

were the wonderful dancers and acrobats from the Equipe Silvana Gym from Nova Friburgo. They are especially well trained and joyful in their presentation of samba and the martial art of Capoeira. The next day, Friday, the second performance of "Imagination" went even better than the first. The Texas All-Star group choreographed by Jodie Trncak also had a great performance-they made a hit with the audience when, at the end of their performance, they tossed their Texas cowboy hats to the crowd. The FIG Gala was next on the agenda and was a magnificent two-hour show. For anyone who loves gymnastics and probably for most people who don't, the FIG Gala of the 11 th World Gymnaestrada was one of the best shows in the history of the world. Possibly an overstatement, but it was truly mesmerizing with the best of the best outdoing themselves at the end of this incredible week.

In the Welcome of the FIG Gala program, Margaret Sikkens-Ahlquist, explained that the growth of General Gymnastics means that all the different continents are represented in this one show. The choreographer, Tiina Leesment-Bergh, introduced the general theme,

- - - - - - -- - - --------(( rEC H NIOU E â&#x20AC;˘ va LUM E 19

(continued on page 20)

â&#x20AC;˘ #9

)f--------------------=':-::9:-J11

THE 11TH WORLD GYMNAESTRADA (continued from page 19)

"Changes," which divided the performances up like the four seasons of the year. I have already mentioned several of the groups which participated, but to see all the best groups together, including several which one might have missed during the week, with smooth transitions from one to another created an enchanting and uplifting effect.

feeling confident because the USA groups had worked so hard in previous rehearsals. The full dress rehearsal was at first a chaotic mess with a cast of thousands. It seemed remarkable that so many people could achtally be coordinated, but somehow we were.

It was truly an honor for the USA to be invited to perform in the Closing Ceremony since only nine countries were chosen besides the host, Sweden. The Swedes went all out with spectacular coshunes, colors, flags, prop trees and flowers, trampolines, tumbling, a variety of music and several hundred performers including small children and the elderly. The other countries had a maximum of eight minutes to enter, perform, and exit-quite a logistical feat. I had selected music from the Broadway show, "Ragtime," for the USA portion. The American gymnasts interpreted this well as they danced, tumbled and built pyramids, with four groups performing on huge circular platforms spaced around the field. Alan Boeding's performance on the Circle Walker helped to tie the groups together, and the UCA Cheerleaders accented the choreography with high tosses and flying arabesques. After all the hard work, it was a joy for me to watch the actual performance. The audience let the gymnasts know they enjoyed it, too. At the conclusion of the Closing Ceremony, the Ullevi audience was invited to join the performers and dance out of the stadium as the loud speakers played Ricky Martin's "The Cup of Life."

One of the Gala groups included several talented girls from Israel performing an intricately precise and humorous routine with a teeter-totter. I was also impressed with the South African group that included Zulu warriors. I was especially proud of my American friend, Alan Boeding (Circle Walker), who was honored to perform one of the few solos of the evening. It's hard to describe Alan's work, but he has created a beautiful and unique sculpture of steel tubing in the shape of a sphere. Alan provides the kinetic force for the sculpture to roll around the floor while he dances and does gymnastics in, around, through and on top of the Circle Walker. The effect is magical and sometimes breathtaking. The audience loved him as they loved the entire evening. "Bravo" to Alan and to all the folks who performed and helped to produce this absolutely spectacular show of gymnasts from all continents of the world. Saturday finally came and with it the rehearsal and then performance of the Closing Ceremony. I was

--12-=-=-O---------------{(

The Closing Party had just begun ... The last night of 1999 Gymnaestrada was given over to celebration, trading clothes, visiting, dancing, eating, drinking, and merry-making with people from all over the world partying like it was 1999. And it was! The organizers had provided a field of tents, tables, restaurants, dance spaces, bands, and a giant video screen to watch the day's events. The Closing Party was a showcase for the peace movement-people from many different cultures and races meeting as one human family to celebrate their mutual enthusiasm for gymnastics. It felt good. It felt right. And I can't wait for this feeling to grow in America as it is growing throughout the rest of the world. The World Gymnaestrada has never taken place outside of Europe. The time is right for this glorious event to take its message to a new continent. The American gymnastics community has much to learn from this truly international movement of noncompetitive exhibition gymnastics which proves that love of gymnastics knows no national boundaries, and there is one family on earth, the human family. •

Toby Towson's complete report from the 1999 World Gymnaestrada can be found on USA Gymnastics Online at http://www.usa-gymnastics.org/gg/

TEe H N IOU E • VOLUME 19 • #9

)1-----------------

4 New Exciting Products for Gymnastics!

Portable Gymnastic Pits

BEAM STINGER Take the sting out of beam mounts, dismounts and saltos with TIFFIN's new Beam Stinger. 30" x 34" x 5/8". Great for practice, warm-ups and 3D-second touch . Rolls up for easy storage and transportation . 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

CARTWHEEL MAT Make learning a cartwheel fun and easy for your little gymnast with these hands and feet screened mats. Made with 1-1/8" 100 ILD polyurethane foam and 14 oz. durable vinyl fabric. Colors available - Red, Blue or Green .

MINI BEAM Great for handstands, presses, scales, turns, jumps and hundreds of other uses. 32" long, 4" wide and 7" tall with padding and suede covering just like your competitive beams.

VAULTING TOTE Transport and protect your vaulting board in this top quality carrying case. Made of rugged vinyl, double stitched for long life. Handles on both sides for easy carrying. Heavy duty zipper opening for easy use. Choice of blue or red. Screened ''Team / School Name" available.

Practice Balance Beams

Competition Landing Mats

Contact Tiffin for all of your mat needs whether you need a single mat for home use, or enough mats to set up an entire gym. Quality mats at affordable prices! Visit us on the web - www.tiffinmats.com

National Gymnastics Day:

ATREMENDOUS SUCCESS .~

n July 31, USA Gymnastics teamed up with cities across the United States

in its promotion of National Gymnastics Day. With support from USA Gymnastics' largest corporate sponsor, John Hancock Mutual Life

Insurance Company, national team athletes and former Olympians made

appearances in several markets. Many athletes appeared

in exhibitions in local malls, ~-

while others participated in

\..I

-\I< T

special activities specifically designed to promote National Gymnastics Day. Following

is a recap of some of the activities that occurred

throughout the United States.

-4:

'* 'ff

if-~

Atlanta, Georgia Governor Roy Barnes proclaimed July 31, Georgia Gymnastics Day. 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Strug appeared at Northpoint Mall along with city and state officials. Strug also made several appearances in local gymnastics clubs around Atlanta, which was organized by Varsity Gymnastics.

Boston, Massachusetts 1998 National Champion and 2000 Olympic hopeful Kristen Maloney traveled to local clubs and made appearances in promotion of the 2000 U.S. Olympic Trials being hosted by the Massachusetts Sports Partnership.

Chicago, IILlinois Governor George H. Ryan signed the first National Gymnastics Day proclamation in the State of Illinois and Argo Gymnastics performed an exhibition in front of the state building in Chicago.

Cincinnati, Ohio A large National Gymnastics Day celebration occurred at the Tri-County Mall, with some of the country's top female gymnasts from Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy appearing at an exhibition. Athletes included: Alyssa Beckerman, Sierra Sapunar, Brittany Smith, Jennie Thompson, Kim Zmeskal, and this year's 1999 all-around Pan American Games Gold Medalist, Morgan White.

Join the

crovvd. PRO "',t t--:" ,.,. ,

...

Last year

over 100 gyms in thirty-three states,

switched from their meet scoring program

to ProScore meet management software.

Are you still using the same old thing? Why not prepare for the millennium?

ProScore: simply the best meet management system in existence-period.

Replace those clumsy flip displays and runners!

CoLumbus, Ohio The Ohio State Men's and Women's Gymnastics Teams along with special guest, former National Team Member Drew Durbin, performed in an exhibition at Worthington Mall. The event was hosted by Universal Gymnastics. (continued on pnge 24)

NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY A TREMENDOUS SUCCESS (con tinued from page 23)

Houston, Texas Over 100 of the top male gymnasts in the country including members of the men's national team competed at the Texas Sports Ranch to qualify for the 1999 John Hancock u.S. Gymnastics Championships.

IndianapoLis, Indiana Mayor Stephen Goldsmith and Governor Frank O'Bannon signed proclamations declaring National Gymnastics Day on July 31 in Indianapolis and Indiana. Junior National Team Member Janae Cox and Breasha Pruitt performed at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, along with eight local gymnastics clubs, in support of National Gymnastics Day.

Kansas City, Missouri City

Denver, CoLorado Current national team member Angela Beam traveled to various clubs in the Denver area signing autographs and greeting her Denver fans .

Durango, CoLorado

1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Amanda Borden and 2000 Olympic hopeful Elise Ray were featured in the parade honoring George Brett and his induction into the Hall of Fame. Exhibitions were conducted at the Zoo and local malls to help promote the upcoming u.S. World Championships Team Trials, September 15-18 at the Historic Municipal Auditorium.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Lansing, Michigan

Men and women competed in a World Cup qualifier in Trampoline and Tumbling . Knoxville Gymnastics Center hosted an open house, complete with exhibitions from Trampoline and Tumbling athletes. Two malls demonstrations were also held throughout the city.

Great Lakes Gymnastics rented three huge billboards declaring July 31 - National Gymnastics Day and advertising their gym . They also put up a tent at the local Kids Fest and held an open house. (continued on page 26)

QUALI" CHAMPIONSHIP AWARDS

WITH FREE

30" RlBBONI

NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY A TREMENDOUS SUCCESS (continued fronl page 25)

Los Angeles, California 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist Bart Conner led a group of former Olympians and current gymnasts in a recognition ceremony on July 28 at the John Wooden Center on the UCLA Campus. Joining Conner was teammate Kathy Johnson, along with 1996 Olympian Chainey Umph rey and 2000 Olympic hopeful Vanessa Atler. July 31 marked the 15th Anniversary of the men's team gold medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olym pics. Together, this group presented roc Vice President Anita DeFrantz with a special recognition award. Various clubs around Greater Los Angeles staged gymnastics exhibitions in public facilities. Gymnastics LA produced an exhibition at the Crenshaw Baldwin Hills Mall. The Broadway Gymnastics School performed at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. KIPS and Precision Gym joined forces for a day of activities at the Ontario Mills Mall. And, U.S. Gymnastics Training Center provided a demon stration at the Laguna Hills Mall.

New York, New York National Gymn asti cs Day Chairman Bela Karolyi appeared on NBC's Today Show with America's most decorated Olympic gymnast, Shannon Miller, and 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist, Dominique Dawes. Gymnasts performed an exhibition at Rockefeller Plaza during the Today Show, highlighting 1992 Olympic gymnast Dominick Minnicucci and 1998 national champion, Kristen Maloney. Three -ti me National Trampoline Champion, Ryan Weston also showed off his high-flying skills. Representatives of New York City were on hand to read a proclamation from Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, proclaiming National Gymnastics Day in New York. Later in the day, Karolyi led the delegation to the Armory Track and Field Center where Wendy Hilliard produced a fantastic gymnastics show, attended by over 1000 local kids. National champion Tatyana Brikulskaya performed a variety of rhythmic exhibitions. Regis Philbun even became a part of the National Gymnastics Day celebration, trying out the trampoline with national champion Jennifer Sans, in Central Park. In nearby Newark, New Jersey, the Livingston Gymnastics Academy performed during the pre-game of the Newark Bears baseball game, with former major leaguers Rick Cerone and Sparky Lyly on hand. Also in (continued on page 28)

r::,-=----::-------''---;:--;--------~( TECH N IOU E â&#x20AC;˘ VO lU Mf 19 â&#x20AC;˘ # 9 ) } - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

ÂŽ

Athletes learn perfect tumbling technique in a fraction of the normal training time. Bar skills are learned just as easily with the optional fiberglass training rail. Our unique frame extension with diagonal springing at the end of the bed makes takeoffs from the Powertrac firm and steady. The entire bed is double sprung with the finest quality 6" steel wire chromed springs. Custom sizes available. Special pricing is available on our 32" training pit when purchased with a Powertrac.

Gel One For Your Gym Today I

ATHLETIC INrERNATlONAl

1-800-877-5294 â&#x20AC;˘ www.unitedathletic.com

NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY A TREMENDOUS SUCCESS

attendance was celebrity, Joe Piscopo. New Jersey Governor Christine Whitman signed a proclamation for National Gymnastics Day. Dominick Minicucci threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Portland, Oregon National Team member Trent Wells appeared for National Gymnastics Day activities coordinated by Metro Gym Center at the Beaverton Mall.

Sacramento, California 1999 National Team members Jeanette Antolin and Jamie Dantzscher conducted media and promo-

tional appearances in support of the upcoming John Hancock U.S. Gymnastics Championships.

San Jose, California 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Jaycie Phelps was introduced at the Oakland A's baseball game along with local gymnasts demonstrating the sport during the pre-game activities.

Seattle, Washington 1992 Olympian Missy Marlowe appeared to support local gymnastics clubs and their exhibitions which took place at the Redmond Town Center. â&#x20AC;˘

From all reports it appeared the inaugural National Gymnastics Day was a success. We're receiving all kinds of photos, articles, and ads showing how clubs across the country celebrated NationaL Gymnastics Day. If you haven't already done so, please submit your photos, newspaper clips and/or short description on how you celebrated NationaL Gymnastics Day. We're planning to publish a photo collage in the November/December issue of USA Gymnastics magazine. Send photos and information to: USA Gymnastics magazine, Pan American PLaza, 201 S. CapitoL Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

TUMBL TRAK®

By •

-.~e Air Trak is an inflatable device designed for tumbling, gymnastics skills, cheerleading and general fitness. The Air Trak is fun and can be used for a variety of different competitive and recreational functions. Safety and portability are two main advantages of the 'Air Trak. The Air Trak is especially safe because it has no metal frame, is low to the .....'- ground and has no double bounce. It can be inflated and deflated in under five minutes and then rolled up for easy mobility.

Are you looking for a piece of equipment that will provide a multi level station in a very

THE SUPER STATION

small space? Try inclining a 15 ft. Air Tra k as seen here at Woodward Summer Camp. This "super station" has been used for everything from first solo back handsprings through round offs to back tucks and all the way up to double backs, full-ins and triple fulls. Placing the Air Trak on an incline (foam incline included) will save the space of a normal run. Dismounting into a loose foam or resi-pit is ideal, but landing onto a 12 inch mat can still give you a "super station."

"The Super Station is the best new training tool Woodward Camp has had in years." -Ed Isabelle, Woodward Camp

The Mini Mountain was designed with the "Four Fun Food Groups" in mind: bouncing, climbing, sliding and tunneling . Each unit includes a built-in tunnel, cargo net and climbing

rope. Make this fun piece the next addition to your Air Trak and add a little "Mountain Mania" to your facility.

Call for a free video and brochure (coaches and gym owners only)

1 ·800·331 ·4362

www.tumbltrak.com • Email: tumblBOO@aol.com IICelebrafing '0 years of qualify servicel l

Visit us at our website at -

- --

- ---

- - - --

--- -

-- ----

- ----- - - - -

-- - -

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

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

CREATE A LEVEL

TEAM IN YOUR GYMI by Jeff LaFleur Lafleur's Gymnastics in Tampa, Florida

here are many benefits to creating a Level 2-3 gymnastics team in your gym. Here are just a few of the many benefits:

• BROADEN THE BASE OF YOUR TEAM PROGRAM • GET KIDS IIHOOKEDII ON GYMNASTICS - TEAM LEO, ETC. • TWELVE (12) MONTHS OF STEADY INCOME • CLASS INSTRUCTORS GET A CHANCE TO COACH • TEAM COACHES JUDGE MEETS; GET TO SEE TALENT • STEADY FITNESS PROGRAM FOR PARTICIPANTS I suggest an "in-house" team only. By having an "in-house" team, you can control the quality and consistency of the program, without putting your kids and parents through the pressure of out-of-facility meets. Since we have compulsory State meets in December, January is a big "move up " month in our club. Levels 2/3 move to Level 4; Level 4's move to

Level 5, etc. This allows us to pick a lot of children from our class program to join the Level 2-3 team. We look for talented five to seven year olds or older kids who have been in the program for a while and are looking for an opportunity to compete. In our first selection last year, my staff promoted 72 children or nine groups of eight gymnasts. They workout two hours twice a week and compete every two months on a Saturday. Their entry fee to compete is $18. We have a five minute warm up and then compete with two sessions of 36 gymnasts. NO SCORES are flashed. Coaches can spot or talk children through routines. Clapping and cheering is required. At the end of the meet, each child is called up and is presented with an evaluation certificate using the USA Gymnastics system of 9.0 + blue; 8.0-8.9 red; and below 8.0 white ribbons.

Since judges sometimes change from evaluation to evaluation and none of the coaches are judges, we rig the scoring. If there are no falls, the gymnast must score higher than the previous meet. Chances are they all improve after two months anyway, but we know how different opinions can be in gymnastics. On floor, we eliminated the music and created our own routine, now we don't

I. . 3 - 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - { (

TECH N IOU E •

have "that music" going all the time. Plus you can teach elements anywhere (tumbling strip, etc.) We also move slowly. I believe a year at each level would be ideal. Think of it as a fun and fitness program. Two hours, twice a week for about $100 a month is something most people can handle and want for their children. Make sure coaches emphasize IIFun and Development. 1I If you would like more information about this program, call us at (813)264-5000 .•

Special thanks to Erin Christiansen who runs this program for us and our floor manager, Can'i Roberts, who is in charge of selection. Jeff has been the co-owner of LaFleur's Gymnastics in Tampa, Florida, with his wife, Julie, since 1980. He's a former National Team Member and Pan Am Medalist. Jeff's coached men's and women's artistic gymnastics and preschool gymnastics for 25 years. He majored in P.E. and has a minor in Child Psych from the University of Minnesota . LaFleur's Gymnastics offers artistic men's and women's gymnastics, preschool and special ed gymnastics, swimming, day camps, dance and birthday parties.

va LU ME 19 • #9 ) f - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

DEBUNKING WEIGHT TRAINING MYTHS One hundred years is long enough for a myth to exist. The

Georgia Tech Sports Medicine and Performance Newsletter debunks four of them: 1) there is no difference between strength training and body building; 2) lifting weights causes people to become muscle-bound; 3) women who lift weights will look like men; 4) children should not participate in weight training. Enough is enough!

Myth #1: Strength training and body building are synonymous. Strength training is not body building. Many may think that the goal of strength training is to look like those beautiful people in muscle magazines. Body building began as a curious pastime and has evolved into a competitive event. Muscle size, definition and symmetry now determine winners. Any relationship to flexibility, strength, endurance or aerobic capacity is secondary.

Myth #3: Women who lift weights will look like men. Strength training helps reduce body fat and increase lean weight. It results in significant increases in strength, no change or maybe even a decrease in lower body dimensions, and a very small increase in upper extremity size. The formula that would make a woman develop the physical traits normally associated with men would have to include a genetic predisposition for muscle hypertrophy (increase in size) combined with a high-intensity, high volume training program.

Myth #4: Children should not participate in strength training.

Weight training, or resistance training, is the use of barbells, dumbbells, machines and other equipment for the purpose of improving fitness levels and appearance. Strength training is the use of this equipment for the purpose of improving athletic performance and in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Just about any kind of exercise that involves moving or attempting to move against an external force is resistance training.

Children are participating in resistance training every time they go outside and playa game, even if the game is not a sport. If they are running, throwing, pulling, lifting, or doing any kind of exercise against resistance, they have already begun their program.•

Myth #2: Lifting weights will make a person muscle bound. This myth is easy to debunk on paper, but still hard to sell to some coaches and athletes. The lack of flexibility is not an outcome of developing large muscles, explains the Georgia Tech Sports Medicine and Performance Newsletter. Large muscle size may imply inflexibility, but there is no known correlation. Reduced flexibility can result from lack of muscle activity or chronic use of poor lifting and stretching methods. Using the term "musclebound" is inappropriate for those who practice sound weight training techniques and proper stretching exercises. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - { ( TECH N' QUE • VO LUM E 19 • #9

)}----------------::3::-:':-.1

USA Gymnastics and its sponsor Hershey Chocolate have partnered together to hold a nation-wide fundraiser for gymnastics clubs. The fundraiser was presented at the 1999 USA Gymnastics National Congress in Sacramento. A variety of Hershey products will be avai lable to sell. There will be two grand prizes for the top selling clubs in the country-a trip for four to the 2000 Reese's Gymnastics Cup event and a trip for four to Hershey, Pa. The Hershey Candy Sale will be available year-round to gymnastics clubs, however, to be eligible for this year's prizes the contest ends January 3 I , 2000. r--~

----... Start your fall season off right by being one of the first fundraisers

~ in your area. Put up a wall chart in your gym showing your goal of sales and what you plan to purchase so your gymnasts can get excited about selling candy. You may also want to give prize incentives to your gymnasts for their efforts. USA Gymnastics Member Clubs should have received posters and contact information on how to purchase candy. For other clubs or booster clubs who would like to participate, please call a representative closest to you (see list at right) to order your candy and participate in the Hershey Candy Sale!

Good Luck and thank you for supporting Hershey Chocolate, the "official candy of USA Gymnastics."

Genuine Marble Oases

FREE ENGRAVING On Trophies & Plaques

FREE DELIVERY On Pre-Paid Trophy & Plaque Orders Over $100

NEW FUNDRAISING T-SHIRTS CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

12" Action Insert Riser

Action Plaque

HERSHEY'S FUND RAISING SALES CONTACTS STATE

CONTACT

PHONE #

STATE

CONTACT

PHONE #

STATE

CONTACT

PHONE #

Kevin Bolond (1) Verne Cooper( 1)

(407) 365·0756 (404)297-9610

Moine

Billie Reese (2)

(860)561·9752

Rhode Island

Billie Reese (2)

(860)561·9752

Morylond

Pete Fellman (2)

(410)561·0107

South Corolina

Mike Swt! (1)

(770)346·0820

Pierce Cartwright Brokers (5)

(907) 563·3032

Massachuset!s

Billie Reese (2)

(860)561·9752

South Dokota

Ron Ringstad (3)

(612)707·0270

Arizona

lina losfalk (5 )

(303)413·0386

Michigan

lim Gilts (4)

(734)975·2494

Tennessee

Ron Ringstad (3)

(612 )707·0270

Mike Swt! (1) Waine Ratliff (1)

(770)346·0820 (901) 761·2452

Arkansas

Waine Ratliff (1)

(901) 761 ·2452

Minnesota

East West

Mississippi

Waine Ratliff (1)

(901) 761·2452

Texas

Michelle King (5) Bob McGrath (5)

(925) 820·7415 (949)461·9347

Colorado

Dave Campbell (5)

(303)771·1270

East West Houston EI Paso

Pat Magness (1) Bill Edmondson (1) Alan Krenz (1) John Perre (5)

(972)625·2560 (972)317·8698 (281)395·2608 (602)813·6441

Connecticut

Billie Reese (2)

(860) 561 ·9752

David Campbell (5)

(303)771·1270

Steve Sisko (2) Pete Fellman (2)

(610)449·6352 (410)561 ·0107

Dist Of Columbia

Pete Fellman (2)

(410)561·0107

Florida

Kevin Boland (1)

(407) 365·0756

Mike Swt! Verne Cooper (1 )

(770)346·0820 (404)297-9610

Alabama

Gulf Coast All Other

Alaska

California

North South

Delaware

Georgia

North South

East West

Hawaii

Hawaiin Agents Inc (808)682·7377

Idaho

North South

lina lasfalk (5) Dave Campbell (5)

(303)413·0186 (303)771 ·1270

Illinois

North Central South

Brenda Ostling (3) Colleen Davis (3) Chris Padget! (3)

(414)964·4921 (815)469·3118 (618)277·4878

Indiana

Chris Padget! (4)

(618)277·4878

Iowa

Adam Bahr (3)

(515)962·9842

Kansos

Claude Bockhold (3) (913)262·9101

Kentucky

Tammy Nash(4)

(513 )573-9907

Pat Magness (1 ) Allen Krenz (1)

(972)625·2560 (281)395·2608

louisiana

North South

Missouri

West East

Claude Bockhold (3) (913)262·9101 Chris Padget! (4) (618)277·4878

Montana

lina lasfalk (5)

(303)413·0186

Utah

Nebraska

Adam Bahr (3)

(515)962·9842

Vermont

North South

Michelle King (5) Bob McGrath (5)

(925)820·7415 (949)461·9347

Virginia

Billie Reese (2)

(860)561·9752

North South

John Holl (2) Steve Sisko (2)

(516)543·6495 (610)449·6352

Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey

John Perre (5)

(602) 813·6441

Jim Bombeck (4) John Hall (2)

(724)981·3838 (516)543·6495

North Carolina

Doug Stewart (1)

(919)468·5331

North Dakota

Ron Ringstad (3)

(612)707·0270

Jim Bombeck (4) East Central;West Tammy Nash(4) North lim Gilts (4)

(724)981·3838 (513)573·9907 (734)975·2494

Oklahoma

Pat Magness (1)

(972)625·2560

Oregon

lina lasfalk (5)

(303)413·0186

Steve Sisko (2) Jim Bombeck (4) Pete Fellmon (2)

(610)449·6352 (724)981·3838 (410)561·0107

New Mexico New York

Ohio

Pennsylvania

Upstate All Other

East West Central

Billie Reese (2)

(860)561 ·9752

Doug Stewart (1) Pete Fellman (2)

(919)468·5331 (410)561·0107

Washington

lina lasfalk (5)

(303)413·0186

West Virginia

Tammy Nosh (4)

(410)561·0107

South North

Wiswnsin

North South

Ron Ringstad (3) (612)707·0270 Perry Greisinger (3) (608) 835·8885 David Compbell (5)

Wyoming

REGION MANAGERS: (I) Dave Maddux (2) Michael Hughes (3) Mark Dieffenbach (4) John Santeford (5) Tina Lasfal

(972) (717) (630) (440) (303)

(303)771 ·1 270

518-1585 541-1433 245-1600 979-1706 413-0186

11111~~llii~

; ;( You'll do somersaults over this program!

~ *~ GymSOFT™ 4.0 • Check-In with countdown

&~:~:~h

• Password security features • Past due alerts & late fees

• Attendance tracking

• Letters & photo ID cards

• Enrollment at a glance • Easy & flexible billing

• Bar coding & EFT

• Mailing lists with labels

• Daily scheduler • Print out class lists by day

• Auto phone dialing

• Wait lists. free trials

• Student registration • Assign family &

• Inventory

- & MUCH MORE!

special rates

This software could douhle your enrollment Save Time & Money - Start Today! Only $495 or five payments of $119 per month To order:

Network version available

800-622-0025

15 East Putnam Avenue , Suite 376 • Greenw ich , (T 06830 • Tel 203-622-0108 • Fax 203 -622 -0033 • www.GymSOFT.com COACHES·

TEAMS.

GYMNASTtCS

CLUBS.

SCHOOLS.

TRAINING

CENTERS·

TUMBLtNG

........ .... ... . .. ....'. ···· ·. .......

. .... .'

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! 1999-2000 Age Divisions for Level 9 Regional & East/West Championships and Level 10 Regional & National Championships LEVEL 9

JUNIOR A 8-12 Yrs. JUNIOR B 12-14 SENIOR A 14-15 SENIOR B 15!h and over LEVEL 10 JUNIOR A9-13!h JUNIOR B 13Yz-14 JUNIOR ( 14-15 JUNIOR D 15

SENIOR A

1999.

October 31, 1984 and earlier

Concerning Professional Membership and Safety Certification:

BORN November I, 1986 and after (Must be 9 yrs. to compete as Levell 0)

When applying for professional membership and safety certification, the professional membership number will not be released and the professional membership card will not be issued until after successful completion of safety certification.

January I, 1986 to October 31, 1986 March I, 1985 to December 31, 1985

Transfer and no refund policy concerning Safety Certification:

May 8, 1984to February 29, 1985 October I, 1983to May 7, 1984 February I, 1983to September 3D, 1983

16~-17

SENIOR ( 17 SENIOR D 18 & over by the end of May

EFFECTIVELY AUGUST 1,

November I, 1984 to March 31, 1986

16-16~

SENIOR B

NOTICE

BORN July I, 1987 and later (Must be 8 yr. to compete os Level 9) April 1, 1986 to June 3D, 1987

Safety registration/certification is the property of the individual-not the club. Safety registration may be transferred, for the individual, to any other course within six months of their original course. Safety registration is non-refundable.

June I, 1982to January 31, 1983

May 31, 1982 and earlier

For State Meets and below, the age divisions for these levels will be determined by the State Board, with the decision being based upon the number of athletes in the state. The State Board has the following options: 1) use the above age divisions as is, 2) combine some of the above divisions, or 3) designate new divisions which create somewhat equal numbers per age division for their state. Meet Directors of Invitationals also have the same options. If any of the above age groups are combined for either Level 9 or for Level 10, the printed meet results must still indicate which of the "official" four or eight divisions the athlete is in, so that the number of qualifiers to State and/or Regionals can be accurately projected • .-13=-4-=-----------------((

TEe H H 10 U E •

va LUME

19 • #9 )f-- - - - - - - - - -- - - - -

CONFERENCE CALL

II. TEXACO SPONSORSHIP AT NATIONAL TRAINING CENTERS

August 4, 1999

Ron Galimore and Marc Yancey spoke to the committee concerning developments over securing a Texaco sponsorship for the Men's Program.

I. ROLL CALL Meeting called to order at 1:50 p.m. CST by Chair, Marc Yancey. Members Present: Marc Yancey George Beckstead Greg Corsiglia Tim Daggett Mark Williams Barry Weiner Chris Waller Ron Galimore Dennis McIntyre Peter Kormann

Chair MPC & Jr. Coaches Rep. FIG Rep. Jr. Coaches Rep. Vice-Chair for Men Sr. Coaches Rep. Sr. Coaches Rep. (on at 2:20) Athlete's Rep. Men's Program Director (voice, no vote) Men's Program Manager (voice, no vote) National Team Coordinator (voice, no vote)

Bob Colarossi, USA Gymnastics President, and Rod Davis, V. P. of Marketing, were on the call to address the corporate side of the sponsorship and to answer questions from the MPC members. Background concerning the contract with Texaco was discussed. Bob and Rod filled in the committee about the process that was followed to secure this opportunity for the Men's Program. Texaco originally approached USA Gymnastics about committing sponsorship dollars to a Men's National Training Center in the city of Houston. Because Texaco is based in Houston, a training center in this location was contingent to any deal that

(continued on page 36)

Our Gymnastics MayBe Mediocre, But Our Insurance Can't Be Beat.

We may not know how to stay on a balance beam very long ... but nobody knows more about liability insurance for gymnastics schools than Markel. We understand the special liabilities you face and the issues that affect your business. And, as long as we stay off the balance beam, you'll be impressed. Call us today and see why we're the gynmasties insurance experts.

(800) 355-GYMS

MARKEL INSURANCE MARKEL~ COMPANY

(800)355-4967

Raled "A" EXcellenl By A.M. Besl

Liability Insurance For Gymnastics SChOOlS

)

MEN'S PROGRAM UPDATE (continued from page 35) they would make. A contract was signed with USA Gymnastics where Texaco agreed to offer a maximum of $140,000 to the Men's National Training Centers. This would be broken down to $100,000 to the Houston site and $40,000 to the Olympic Training Center. The contract would be for a two-year period, up for review at the end of that time, and hopefully renewed and continue through 2004. The original site that was identified for this Training Center was the Texas Sport Ranch. However, USA Gymnastics was unable to come to terms on the details of the contract and decided to consider a different location. A comprehensive review of possible training sites in Houston was performed by Ron Galimore and Marc Yancey. The Houston Gymnastic Academy was awarded the national training center due to its location in relation to Texaco, the facility and its potential for training elite gymnasts.

Through the process of confirming this Houston training center concept and the consequent sponsorship of Texaco, further questions have come forward about this direction in the Men's Program. In order to fairly assess the future and the appropriateness of this concept, the MPC will continue to discuss this issue at its meeting at U.s. Championships.

Motion to adjourn by Mark Williams

Second by Tim Daggett

Meeting adjourned at 3:10 p.m. CST.

Submitted by Mark Wells Williams , secretary, USA Gymnastics Men's Program Committee.

What's Your Advantage?

~ ~

~ ~ ~ ~

Increase Learning Video Replay Screen Writing Graphics Battery Operated Audio Voice Over Edited Tape to Athlete

1-800-611-2582 Pro Industries Corporation 111 N. Vista Blvd . • Bldg. #7 • Spokane, WA 99212 1-800-6 11-2582 • Fax: 509-483-2748

Wm. A. Sands, ph.D. Associate Profess01· Advisory Board Member Product Development Specialist

Sports Interactive Training Equipment

Web Add ress: ww,v. pro-indllstries.com E-mail: info@pro-indllstries.com

1997 WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY BOOK ERRATA The following is a compilation of the corrections and additional clarifications made since the printing of the book in 1997.

Please make the following corrections (Changes made in 1999 are in Bold type):

CORRECTION/ADDITION 13

1 - Beam

Illustration of Back shoulder roll-2nd & 3rd figures: Right hand should be on top of beam.

1- Beam

Illustration of Candlestick-6 th figure: Head should be on top of beam.

2 - Beam

Illustration of Back shoulder roll-2nd & 3rd figures: Right hand should be on top of beam

3 - Beam

Illustration of Back shoulder roll- 2nd & 3rd figures: Right hand should be on top of beam.

4 - Vault

Handspring deductions under B. Support Phase: Change #2. Too long in support (delete failure to leave horse by vertical) and change deduction to "Up to 0.50 Add #5 . Angle of repulsion Up to 1.00 Add angle illustration with the following deductions: from 89° to 45°- deduct 0.05 to 0.50; from 44° to horizontal-deduct .55 to 1.0

4 - Bars

Add to top of page: A"single" bar may be used for competition, provided that it meets the current low bar specifications as written in the current Rules and Policies. Deduction box is missing; refer to Penalties, page 161.

4 - Bars

#2 . Add to title after Front Hip Circle: Small Cast Penalty Box: 2nd penalty: change excute to "execute".

4 - Bars

#5. Delete * This part may be reversed only if #4 Forward Stride Circle is reversed.

4 - Bars

Points for Evaluation Box: Delete #12 and renumber since there are two #8's .

4 - Beam

Mount: Penalty box-insert before the (90°)

4 - Beam

#5. 180 Turn: Change the first arm description to read "Lower the Left arm to side-middle; lower the Right arm to forward-middle curved to prepare for the turn.

4 - Floor Ex

Two Straight Jumps with 180° Turn: Add * (asterisk) to indicated reversal is allowed.

4 - Floor Ex

Box: 11th point: Change "fee" to "feet".

5 - Vault

See changes from page 74

5 - Bars

#3. Gray penalty box: delete last deduction of Failure to return to front support 0.50 (this would be considered omission of a major element and receives a 0.8 + 1.00 = 1.80 deduction

#3. Penalty box: Insufficient amplitude of cast: change text in parenthesis to read "(line from shoulders to the lowest body part - abdomen, hips, knees, or feet)" 98

5 - Bars

#9 & 11: In text description, 5th line: " and lift the hips backward-upward to a hollow body position with the legs together. The hips rise to a minimum of 15° below the height of the high bar. Deduction Box: Hips not to a minimum of 15° below the height of the high bar up to 0.60 Delete 1 to 14° 0.05 - 0.10 and Change the following deductions; 16 - 29° below the height of the high bar

0.05 - 0.10

30 - 45°

0.15 - 0.20

46 - 60°

0.25 - 0.30

61-75°

0.35 - 0.45

76° and below

0.50 - 0.60

#10 . Add to 5th line in text, "together" after the word "feet". 99

5 - Bars

#12 . Dismount: Add * (Asterisk) to indicate reversal is allowed. (contmued 011 page 38)

------------------1(

TECH H I QUE • VO LUM E 19 • # 9

) ) - - - - - - - - -- --------=3::-:7::-.1

1997 WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY BOOK ERRATA (continued from page37)

CORRECTION/ADDITION 102

5 - Beam

#4 . Add circle with 1 sec. hold over 5th figure in illustration Deduction box: 2nd deduction-Change to read: Failure to close legs in handstand attempt (delete at vertical)

103

5 - Beam

#5. Illustration-3 rd figure: delete "up" arrow for Right arm and add "up" arrow in front of figure in insert box.

105

5 - Beam

#9. Squat Turn Illustration: 3rd figure should have arms down at the side of body

105

5 - Beam

#10 . Cartwheel: Gymnasts have a choice of a lunge or a straight-leg entry. Add the following

description of the lunge entry: to text, 2nd column: Take a long step forward onto the Right foot in demi-plie and lift the Left leg backward-upward with the hips squared. Maintaining a straight body position, simultaneously lower the torso and continue to lift the Left leg backward-upward, passing through a lever position. Continue to lift the Left leg backward-upward as the torso lowers. Reach forward to place the Right hand ... (return to original text) Text (7 th line) should read: "Place the Left hand on the beam sideways OR slightly turned in." 106

5 - Beam

#13. Straight jump: pt column, beginning of 2nd paragraph: Insert.: "The gymnast MAY lower the heels to push off the beam ...".

112

5 - Floor

Add to end of first paragraph after releve stand ... "OR immediately rebound with legs together and land on both legs in demi-plie." Penalty box: Change deduction for Lack of Repulsion-up to 0.60 to "Insufficient Repulsion to Up to 0.20"

121

6 - Vault

See changes from page 74

124

6 - Bars

#2. Penalty box: Insufficient amplitude of cast: change text in parenthesis to read "(line from shoulders to the lowest body part -abdomen, hips, knees, or feet)" #3. - Clear hip cirde to 30 0 - Add: the angle achieved is determined by a line drawn from the shoulders to the lowest body part when the body reaches a dear support position with the hands shifted to the top of the bar, hips dear of bar.

125

6 - Bars

#7. Penalty box: Insufficient amplitude of cast: change text in parenthesis to read "(line from shoulders to the lowest body part - abdomen, hips, knees, or feet)"

126

6 - Bars

#8. Long Hang Pullover: Text-change last sentence to read "Pass through a support phase, with the hips touching or dear of the bar, and with the arms and legs straight throughout. Add to Penalty box: "Failure to contact the bar with the mid-to-Iower thighs between the completion of the Long Hang pullover and the initiation of the Underswing." 0.20 #9. Underswing: 7th line of text-change staright to straight.

127

6 - Bars

#10 & 12 6th line of text. Add after hollow body position "with legs together." #11. Add to 5th line of text, "together" after the word "feet."

128

6 - Bars

#13. Dismount: Penalty Box: Insert "Insufficient height of hips at point of releaseUp to 0.60".

129

6- Beam

Change the Time Limit from 1:10 to 1:15.

131

6 - Beam

#5. Pivot Turns: 3rd column, 3rd paragraph: Text should read "Quickly execute a 90° turn to the right in releve, with the heel of the Right foot pressed against the front of the Left foot at the completion of the turn. l.IJl'LI:LrL"'~U

--13=-=a-- - - - - - -- - - - - ---{(

0/1

page

TEe H N 10 UE • VOLUME 19 • #9 )} - - - - -- -- - - - - -- -- -

USA GYMNASTICS ANNOUNCES THE PUBLICATION OF:

The Athlete Wellness

Book

1t«iJA GYMNASTICS

Athlete .!he Well ness

Book E d ite<iandCo-Auth o.edDy

Nancy Thies Marshall with AJI..... AtnoId .

P h . O~ C>IoN~. P "- D "

o..nBetwdol,Ph.O,JowlI.Do.I<il.""-O, SuuMo iUI, UI"" \.Mun. PILD, _~

... .....eI!IN.Ulo, IoLD, W. ..... s.nda,Ph.ll. Kat\lyn S ~. P ILO.

Officia l Text for the Athlete Well ness Course In keeping with USA Gymnastics continued efforts to pro-actively address athlete wellness issues, The Athlete WeI/ness Book has been completed and is available through USA Gymnastics Member Services Department. The book will be used as the text for the Athlete Wellness Course and includes both research and practical application of information on:

National Elile T e§ting Progra... Manual

Under the direction of the Notional Coaching Staff and the Elite Program Committee, USA Gymnastics has produced this developmental program to assist our elite coaches in the training and preparation of our athletes. THIS IS APRE·REQUISITE FOR ALL FIRST· TIME ELITE ATHLETES. 1997; USAG; 23pp #3&4& ..............................................$10

• Nutrition For Gymnasts • Child Development As It Relates To Gymnastics • An Introduction To Mental Skills Development • Creating a Healthy and Effective Motivational Climate • Gymnastics and the Female Athlete Triad

National TOP T eding Video

The video covers all of the "Skills Testing" items that are required for National TOP Testing. This video DOES NOT include the "Physical Abilities Test" items. Running time of the video is 40 minutes. #1121 ................................................$15

• Athlete and Coach Burnout • Prevention of Over Training

"The Athlete WeI/ness Book is a valuable text meant to enhance the effectiveness of teachers, coaches, parents, administrators and health care providers in their work with athletes of all levels." reports USA Gymnastics President Bob Colarossi. Coordinator of Medical Services for USA Gymnastics, Dr. larry Nassar provides the following review of the text in the Forward of the book. "This is the first edition of a text which is a landmark publication. No other national governing body of a sport has provided the sports community with this quality of information ...AII of the authors have done an outstanding job in providing the gymnastics population an easily read text covering important health related topics ... 1 am confident it will become one of your most well-read references on athlete well ness issues." Edited by Olympian and Athlete Wellness Program developer, Nancy Thies Marshall, the book is co-authored by nine experts on the chapter topics. Authors include Alison Arnold, Ph.D., Gloria Balague, Ph.D., Dan Benardot, Ph.D., Joan Duda, Ph.D., Suzanne Hecht, M.D., lene larsen, Ph.D., Aurelia Nattiv, M.D., William Sands, Ph.D., and Marilyn Strawbridge, Ph.D. While the book is written primarily for the professional gymnastics community, messages to coaches, parents and athletes are included with each topic as well as quotes from former National Team members, Olympians and World Championship team members. It can be ordered by contacting USA Gymnastics at 1-800-345-471 9. Item Number: #7001 AW Price: $15

National TOP Manual

The 1999 National TOP Manual will take you through the Talent Opportunity Program from beginning to end explaining in detail the Regional Physical Abilities Testing items and the National Gymnastics Skills Test items. The new Manual now contains all of the text thus eliminating the need to cross reference to the National Elite Testing Text . #1120 ....................................................$10

D-' .... ......... . . ~

••• U8A .. . ..

1\f);Y~k TALENT OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM

MANUAL USA GyrmaslCs-Womeo

Do_lo Open a Gy...na§tic:§ Bu§rne§§ ... or DIaL:e your Bu§rne§§ BeHer!

USA Gymnastics developed this booklet with two goals in mind - to help you determine if starting a club is the right decision for you, and to improve your chances of success with your new business. Since so many of the steps involved in opening a gymnastics school are intertwined, we suggest you read through this entire booklet first before you get started. 1998; Loree Galimore; 82pp #3&07 ..............................................$15.00

Order an page 40 DR CALL 1-800-34S-4119

VIDEOS & BOOKS

Landing On My Feet: f\ Diary of Dreal'Ds KERRISTRUG

1999 U.S. R .... yt.... l'Di<: National

The book opens at the turning point in Kerri's career, right before she made her dramatic winning vault. As her moment of victory is realized, the book takes us back to the beginning to tell the story of a little girl who was inspired by Nadia Camaneci and who dreamed even then of Olympic gold. We meet the important people in Kerri's life: her parents, her siblings, and of course, her coaches. 1997; Andrews McMeel; paper; 191 pp

C ....al'Dpions.. ips Videos '99 Rhythmic National Jr. Event Finals #2370 ............................................ $15.00

'99 Rhythmic National Sr. Event Finals #2371 ............................................ $15.00 '99 Rhythmic National Group Competition #2372 ............................................ $15.00

#3660 .............................................. $8.00

Use this lann to arder merchandise an pages 39/41/and above.

NAME ........................................................................................................................................ PHONE ADDRESS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .

CllY .................................................................................................................................................................................................... STATE ...................... Z,P ................. .................. . GYMNASTICS MEMBERSHIP # ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. . CHARGE:

0 VISA

PREFERS

V I SA'

Exp. DATE ......................................................................................................................... .

OTHER

CARD # ................................................................................................................................

ITEM #

SIGNATURE ....................................................................................................................................... .

DESCRIPTION

SEND ORDERS AND MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: USA GYMNASTICS LOCKER ROOM PO BOX 5562, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46255-5562 OR CALL

I"fiIA

1-800-34S-4719

1999

GYMNASTICS

'DOMESTIC SHIPPING & HANDLING 510 AND UNDER ADD 5 4 510.01-540 ADD 5 6 540.01-560 ADD 5 7 560.01-5BO ADD 5 8 580.01-5100 ADD S 9 5100.01-5150 ADD 514 OVER 5150.01 ADD $20 - - INTERNATIONAL - PLEASE CAlL FOR EXAa SHIPPING RATE

QUANTITY

PRICE

TOTAL

SUBTOTAL 'DOMESTIC SHIPPING & HANDLING INDIANA RESIDENTS ADD 5% SALES TAX tLESS 10% MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE MEMBERSHIP #

-------------------------------_ .... , IMembmhlp d'ICounl can an~ be applted 10 purch"e! of apparel and navel~ Ileml. No dlScounl an "deal.

VIDEOS

Order an page 40 DR CALL 1-800-34S- 4719 GENERAL GYMNASTICS 1991 Swedish Team Gymnastics E'fent This video shows examples of TeamGymn competition including Group Jump and Group Floor. Most of the groups are girl· squads. NOTE: the rules for these compe· titions differ somewhat than that suggest· ed for use in the U.S., but the tape should be of assistance to coaches and choreog· raphers who are new to TeamGymn activo ities. Running time: 2hr. #2609 ................................... $15.00

1998 T exa s S tat e GymFest Opening & Gro up P erformanc:es The event began with a march·in and introduction of all the athletes. Each team was represented by its own banner. Eight teams performed during the day, comprising 160 participants. Before the Awards Ceremony, there was a 30 minute Texas fun dance to "God Bless Texas," this was a fun way to bring all the clubs together. During the Awards Ceremony, each club was brought before the audience to receive its special team trophy as well as individual trophies. Running time: 45 minutes #2603 .................................. $15.95

What is General Gymnastics This video has several examples of dif· ferent kinds of General Gymnastics dis· plays-for those who have small groups to groups with several hundred partici· pants. The video has a "voice over" description of the activities shown and serves to help answer the question, "What is General Gymnastics?" Running TIme: 35 minutes

1999 Ame r ic:an Classic: Senior Competition-this video covers nearly all of the routines. This competi· tion was also the Women's Pan American Games Trials. Running time 1hr. 56min. #2132 .................................... $15.00

1999 Visa Amerimn Cup This video contains all of the women's routines from both the preliminary and finals competitions. Running time 2 hr. #2133 ..................................... $15.00 le~el1 Wome n's

Judges' Training Video Two hours of level 7routines, in regular speed and slow motion, to assist the judges and coaches in understanding the proper evaluation of this compulsory/optional level. Also included is a script of the shorthand, deductions and scores, as evaluated by the Women's Technical Committee.

#2 128 .................................. $15.00

How to Train a Front Handspring Safely This video by Tammy Biggs & Dr. larry Nassar offers the coach many strength and flexibility exercises, as well as lead· up drills to safely teach this skill. # 2498 .................................. $20.00

19 99li Ning Cup This video contains all of the Women's routines from this competition. Running time: 28 min.

Gheza Pozsar's Ballet Bar Training for Gymnasts Gheza Pozsar created this tape which demonstrates a Ballet Bar training session designed especially for gymnasts. This tape was requested by the National Team Coaches as a guideline for training gymnasts. Running Time: 16 minutes

#2134 .......................................... $10.00

# 29 61 .................................. $10.00

#2195 .................................... $19.95

1999 Pontiac: Inti. Team ChalDp ionships- Junior This video contains all of the routines from the Women's competition. The teams were USA, China and Romania. Running TIme: 2 hr. #2135 .......................................... $15.00

1999 Pontiac: Inti. Team Champio nships-Senior This video contains all of the routines from the Women's competition. The teams were USA, China, Romania and Australia. Running Time: 2 hr. #2136 .......................................... $15.00

1999 Americ:an Classic: Junior Competition-this video covers almost all of the routines. This competi· tion was also the Women's Pan American Games Trials. Running time 1hr. 52min.

Inc:orporating leg Swings into your Worlmuts This new video by Tammy Biggs & Dr. larry Nassar shows how to properly pre· pare the gymnast for skills such as front handsprings and leaps by training the gymnast to perform an efficient and dynamic leg swing. leg flexibility and strengthening drills are also included.

#2131 .................................... $15.00

# 21 27 .................................. $20.00

#2608 .................................. $10.00

1998 European CLampionsLips Junior Women All·Around and Event Finals - All routines from the Junior Event Finals and selected routines from the AII·Around competi· tion. There are approximately 100 rou· tines shown. Running TIme: 1hour 34 minutes

National TOP Testing Video

RHYTHMIC 1998 U.S. Rhytlunic:

Nationals Sr. Individual (venls

#2364 (3 Tapes) ................ $24.95 Jr. Individual (ve nls

#2365 (3 Tapes) ................ $24.95 Sr. A.11·A.round

#2366 .................................. $1 5.95

Jr. A.U·A.round

#2367 .................................. $15.95 Group Preliminaries and Finals

# 2368 .................................. $15.95

1991 World CLampionsLips From the World Championships in lausanne, Switzerland, this video tape contains routines from Competition I, Team Finals, AII·Around Finals and the Individual Event Finals. This video tape, taken by camcorder from the stands, includes approximately six hours of competition featuring the top gymnasts from all over the world. #2270 .................................. $24.95

1991 Russ ian National CLalDpionsLips Videotaped from the stands in Moscow's Olympic Stadium, this video tape includes all sessions of the 1997 Russian National Championships. Video taped sessions include AII·Around Preliminary, AII·Around Finals and Individual Event Finals. Features such athletes as Alexi Bonderanko, Yuri Kurkov, Evegeni Pogorny and standout junior athlete Egor Grebenkov. Agreat two hour educational video tape! #2271 .................................. $19.95

1998 Visa Arneric:an Cup This two·hour video tape features both the Individual Event and AII·Around Finals from the 1998 Visa American Cup in Fort Worth. The 1998 Visa American Cup hosted an incredibly strong men's field. Video includes American's Blaine Wilson, John Roethlisberger, Jay Thornton and Yoichi Tomita along with international athletes such as Alexi Bondarenko, Dimitri Karbanenko, Wei Yang, and Sergi Fedorchenko. #2272 .................................. $19.95

PLEASE NOTE *All USA Gymnastics videos are designed to be used for educational pU'l'oses by gymnastics coaches and judges. All videos were produced with commercial equipment by amateur video· graphers unless otherwise stated. Our Olympic technical videos are presented from one cam· era angle and show the entire exercise without cuts. close-ups or other effects and enhancements. Except for women's floo r exercise, the videos do not have sound.The Atlanta Technical videos are available for purchase to USA Gymnastics members only.

1997 WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY BOOK ERRATA (col1til1uedjrom page 38)

CORRECTION/ADDITION 131

6 - Beam

#5. Illustration-2 nd line, 4th figure: delete "up" arrow for Right arm and add up arrow in front of figure in insert box.

134

6 - Beam

#10. Cartwheel: Gymnasts have a choice of a lunge or a straight-leg entry. Add the following description of the lunge entry: to text, 2nd column: Take a long step forward onto the Right foot in demi-plie and lift the Left leg backward-upward with the hips squared. Maintaining a straight body position, simultaneously lower the torso and continue to lift the Left leg backward-upward, passing through a lever position. Continue to lift the Left leg backward-upward as the torso lowers. Reach forward to place the Right hand ... (return to original text)

135

6- Beam

#13. Straight jump: 1st column, beginning of 2nd paragraph: Insert. : "The gymnast MAY lower the heels to push off the beam."

136

6 - Beam

#14. Change the value in parenthesis after the title from 0.80 to 1.20 Deduction box on left: Add 1/4 (90°) turn to side handstand incomplete up to 0.20 Deduction box on right: add to the example: after (lack of hold-cross handstand) + 0.20 Incomplete 90° turn to Side Handstand After the = sign change to: 1.10 for incomplete element plus 0.50 (Fall) for a total deduction of 1.60

138

6 - Floor Ex

Illustration of Back Roll to Handstand, 2nd row, 8th figure: Delete the "1 sec." circle above the figure.

141

6 - Floor Ex

Illustration-pt row 8th & 9th figures show legs reversed Both Penalty boxes-Front handsprings: Change Lack of repulsion to "Insufficient repulsion" and change deduction from Up to 0.60 to "Up to 0.20"

142

6 - Floor Ex

Illustration of Flic-flac Step-out, 8th figure: Right leg should be stepping down.

143

6 - Floor Ex

#11. If this part is reversed in order to reverse the aerial cartwheel, do not reverse the arms, the direction of the twist of the torso, or the direction of the Focus.

144

6 - Floor Ex

#12 . Aerial Cartwheel: Add * (Asterisk) to indicate reversal is allowed.

Add to penalty box: If the gymnast performs a cartwheel or dive cartwheel, deduct: 1.00 for changing a major element, plus 0.60 for the value of the element - total 1.60 If the gymnast attempts an aerial cartwheel but touches the floor with her hands prior to the foot landing on the floor, deduct 0.60 for the value of the element, plus any applicable execution/attitude deductions. Do not deduct 0.50 for a fall. 148

6 - Floor Ex

#17. Final Pose: 2nd paragraph of text, delete "(to face side 7)"

149

7 - General

1. A. 3. a) After Artistry add (BB, FX) 1. C Change to read: DIE elements are not allowed and if performed would VOID the exercise. Celements are also not allowed, but if performed would receive a 2.00 penalty. Exceptions: If an "A or B" GYMNASTICS element is performed with such excellent amplitude or superb timing that it results in the performance of a "C" element, there would be no penalty. Examples-Bars: If the following "C" elements are performed, they WILL NOT receive a 2.00 penalty. These are the only exceptions: add #3. Back uprise to immediate clear hip circle to handstand (counts as two B elements).

1. C. #2. Change "ater" to "after" . 1. H. 2nd sentence: Change to read: The deduction for connecting additional " A or B" elements to a required isolated element(s) is 0.50.

14-=-2-=----------------{( ....

TEe HN 10 UE • VOLUME 19 • #9 ) \ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

LEVEl/EVENT 150

151

7 - Vault

II. Specific Apparatus Requirements, A Vault: Add #4 If the gymnast performs a different vault than the vault announced (or flashed), each judge would apply the 0.20 deduction for performance of the wrong vault.

7 - Bars

II. Specific Apparatus Requirements, B. Level 7 Bars,: #3. Mount: Add at end - AGlide, stoop through to straddle cut catch (#1 .104), glide kip will be considered as one element and may be used to fulfill the Kip Mount requirement. #5. Change text to read: " A 360° circling element that finishes or passes through a clear support." Add: The angle achieved is determined by a line drawn from the shoulders to the lowest body part (abdomen, hips, knees, feet) when the body reaches a clear support position (hands shifted to the top of the bar, hips clear of the bar).

7 - Beam

II. Specific Apparatus Requirements, C. Level 7 Beam: #2. Add at end: A switch-leg leap will not fulfill this requirement, as it is a "c" element when performed to 180°. #3. Change to read: An acrobatic series of two or more non-flight elements only, one of which must pass through an inverted vertical position while in support of the hands.

7 - Floor Ex

#2. Round-off, flic-flac, back salta stretched: If a back salta stretched with full (360°) twist is performed instead of the back salta stretched (layout), deduct 1.00 for omission plus 0.80 for the value of the requirement for a total of 1.80. #4. 5400 turn on one foot: Add the following:

If a definite double turn is performed, deduct 2.00 for performing a "c" element. There is no deduction for omission/value of the element; the 540° turn requirement is fulfilled. #5 & #6: Gymnastics and Gym/Acro connections: If a "c" element is used in a direct connection of two gymnastics or gym/acro elements, deduct 2.00 for performing a "c" element. There is no deduction for omission/value of the element; the gym or gym/acro requirement is fulfilled. 7 - Beam & Floor Ex

Specific Deductions for Beam & Floor: #2 Incomplete Turns:

155

4-6 - Vault penalties

See changes from page 74

157

General Faults & Penalties

II. Execution A. 6th deduction change to read: Incorrect body alignment, position or postu on major elements = up to 0.20 Add another deduction: Incorrect body alignment, position or posture on connections = Up to 0.30 (General deduction for whole exercise)

158

Gen. F & P

C. Balance Beam & Floor Exercise: Change the next to last deduction to read: "Failure to maintain a straight support leg when required in the lever position.

159

Gen. F & P

VIII. Deductions taken from Average by Chief Judge, Add the following: Coach standing between the bars or next to the beam throughout the entire exercise 0.10

For the 360° turn requirement on Beam: • If the turn is 180° incomplete (performed a half turn), deduct 0.80 for the value of the element • If the turn is more than 180° incomplete (less than a 180° turn is performed), deduct 1.00 for omission plus 0.80 for the value of the element. For the 540° turn requirement on Floor Exercise: • If the turn is 180° deficient (performed only 360°), deduct 0.80 for the value of the element. • If the turn is deficient more than 180° (less than 360°), deduct 1.00 for omission plus 0.80 for the value of the requirement for a total of 1.80.

- -- - - - -- - - -- - - - - - 1(

TEe H N 10 U E • VOL UME 19 • #9

) } - - - - - - - - - - - - - ---4=-3=--1

1997 WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY BOOK ERRATA (continued from page 43)

CORRECTION/ADDITION 161

4 - Bars Penalties

#2. Front Hip Circle: Add to name of element: SMALL CAST. Delete "Failure to finish in an extended front support - Up to 0.10 Add the following deductions: Failure to execute a small cast after the front hip circle = Up to 0.10 Failure to return to front support (performs immediate squat through) = 0.50 Lack of control in returning to bar = Up to 0.10

163

5 - Bars

#3. Delete last deduction: Failure to return to front support 0.50 (This would be considered as Penalties omission of a major element and would receive a deduction of 1.80.

#3 &6: Insufficient amplitude of cast: change text in parenthesis to read /I(line from shoulders to the lowest body part - abdomen, hips, knees, or feet)/I #5. Add "Failure to finish in a straight-hollow position with feet slightly in front of bar = Up to 0.10 #9 & 11 Counterswing deductions changed as on page 98.

165

6 - Bars Penalties

#2 &7 Insufficient amplitude of cast: change text in parenthesis to read /I(line from shoulders to the lowest body part - abdomen, hips, knees, or feet)" #3. - Clear hip circle to 30° - Add: the angle achieved is determined by a line drawn from the shoulders to the lowest body part when the body reaches a clear support position with the hands shifted to the top of the bar, hips clear of bar. #8. Add: /lFailure to contact the bar with the mid-to-lower thighs between the completion of the Long Hang Pullover and the initiation of the Underswing./I 0.20

172

6- Beam Penalties

#14. Change the value of Dismount from 0.80 to 1.20 Add to deductions: 1/4 (90°) turn to side handstand incomplete up to 0.20 EXAMPLE: Add after" (lack of hold-cross handstand) " + 0.20 Incomplete 90° turn to Side Handstand After the = sign change to read: 1.10 for incomplete element plus 0.50 (Fall) for a total deduction of 1.60

175

5 - Floor Ex

#7. Change Lack of Repulsion to "Insufficient Repulsion" and deduction to 0.20

177

6 - Floor Ex

#7. Change Lack of Repulsion to "Insufficient Repulsion" under both Front Handsprings and change the deduction from up to 0.60 to "Up to 0.20"

LEVEL 5/6 FLOOR PAnERN:

8__------~----__ 2

2~--------------~8

S RIGHT FLOOR PATTERN

. .-1-4-4 - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - 1 (

LEFT FLOOR PATTERN TEe H N IOU E • VOLUME 19 • #9

)1-----------------

USA GYMNASTICS 1999 KAT WORKSHOP SCHEDULE (Pre -registration guarantees a KAT workbook and place at the workshop)

USA GYMNASTICS HAS RECENTLY PUBLISHED A NEW KAT WORKBOOK! The new 1999 KAT workbook has updates relative to bridges, headstands, stretching, Atlantoaxial instabi lity, new lesson plans and much more! This workbook wi ll be uti lized in the upcoming KAT workshops. The new KAT workbook is available for $16.00 (includes shipping and handling) to everyone who has received their KAT certification. please call Pat Warren at 317-237-5050 ext. 337 or email pwarren@usa-gymnastics.org if you are interested in attending a KAT workshop, hosting a KAT workshop or ordering the NEW KAT Workbook. MONTH

DATE

LOCATION

EVENT/CLUB

PHONE

September

12 18

Miami, FL

Tumblebees Gymnastics

305-233-6738

Murfreesboro, TN

Tumble Kids Gymnastics

615-890-661 1 503-246-081 8

September September September October October

24 30 2

Redmond, WA

Region II Regional Congress/Emera ld City Gym

Oakbrook, IL

Region V Regional Congress

Hazleton, PA

Faberge Follies

New Haven, CT

In-Flight Gymnastics Center

New York, NY

Region VI Regional Congress/Chelsea Piers Gym

October

3 14 29

Hunt Valley, MD

Region VII Regional Congress

February

Grass Valley CA

Rising Starz Gymnastics Academy

October

630-351-9704 717-454-1418 203-777-2628 212-336-6500 609-216-0228 530-478-5961

NEW "KAT Continuing Education" in 2000! USA Gymnastics is currently developing a Movement Education Lesson Plan and Objectives Workbook. This exciting new workbook and four-hour workshop will be introduced at the 2000 National Congress in Boston. The proposed workbook, and related training, will link theory and practice such that preschool instructors will become more knowledgeable practitioners; able to work towards both long and short-term goals and reflect on appropriate practices for working with preschool age students.

•

Lesson Planning: How to develop a curriculum How to implement the curricu lum Record keeping for accountability and to ensure instructional progress

•

Assessment: Formative vs . Summative assessment Product vs. Process Reporting results

Part Two: Skills and Movement Concepts THE BASIS OF MOVEMENT SKILLS: LOCOMOTOR, MANIPULATIVE, NON-MANIPULATIVE

Part One: The Preschool Program THEORY OF DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE PRACTICES IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION SETTINGS •

Deconstruction : The process of breaking down ski lls for part-whole instruction

•

Management: How to organize the setting and prepare for instruction

•

Instruction : Recommendations for working with children - Direct vs. Indirect instruction

- - - - - - --

• • •

How we move: Body, Space, Effort, Relationships Gymnastics skills appropriate for preschool Rhythmic skills: How to develop rhythm as a movement capacity

Part Three: Sample Lesson Plans •

General movement categories related to classes of gymnastics skills or preschool drills and activities that develop general skil l capacities, preceded by a grid indicating skills that would benefit from each dril l

- -- -- - - - - { ( TECH N IOU E • VO lU ME 19 • #9

) f - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - c=-=s::-tl1 4

POSITIONS AVAILABLE WORLD CUP GYMNASTICS is looking for a highly qualified girls team coach and recreational instructors. Strong spotting skills and good coaching qualifications a must. Beginner through Elite. Applicants should be professional, ener· getic, and have strong organization, and man· agerial skills. This position is best suited for person wishing to pursue, long-term career in coaching. World Cup Gymnastics, Chappaqua, NY 10514, phone: (914)238-4967 ext. 23. fax: (914)238-3568. Email: xcupx@aol.com DIRECTOR, GYMNASTICS PROGRAM. Seeking experienced individual to develop and manage a comprehensive gymnastics program including recreational and competitive components. New, state· of-the· art facility with a wide range of youth programs including girls USAG team. Seeking skills in teaching, staff management and program development. Excellent opportunity for energetic, self-motivated individual. Full time position with benefits. Candidate must have minimum 5 years experience in USAG program. Salary commensurate with experience and certifications. Send resume, references to: Christy Hodde, Connection for Women and Families, 79 Maple Street, Summit, N.J. 07901 . IMMEDIATE OPENING: ASSISTANT COACH, COLORADO SPRINGS. National Gymnastics Village is interviewing candidates for Optional Team Assistant coach. The position requires pre· vious experience coaching level 10 on beam and floor, an intense desire to learn, strong spotting skills and a team player. Adance background is a plus. This full time position is salaried, commensurate with experience. Benefits include medicol/dental insurance, IRA, etc. We are also interviewing for a part-time level 6/ 7 coach and class instructors. Submit resume/ references to Kurt Aichele, Notional Gymnastics Village, 3870 Mallow Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80907. 719598-6863, 719-598-0325 (faxI; or email to kaichele@cwixmail.com GYMNASTICS' INSTRUCTORS & COMPULSORY /OPTIONAL COACHES. All-Star Gymnastics Center is seeking enthusiastic and highly motivated teachers and coaches. Teaching: Mon. - Sot. beginner to intermediate level gym· nastics skills. Coaching requirements: Must be a U.S.A. Gymnastics professional member. Coaching Levels: 4-10. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send resume or call: Tom Bonacci @ All-Star Gymnastics, 5 Kidder Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824 - Tel (978)256-7766 Fox (9781256-7779. WOMEN'S COMPETITIVE TEAM COACHES WANTED. Cypress Academy in Houston, Texas, is a 30,000 sq. ft. facility fully equipped for high level training. We are looking for professional and energetic mole and female instructors to

work with our highly competitive compulsory and optional program. Must be enthusiastic, highly motivated, a team player, and DEDICATED to the program as well as the kids. Contact Aaron Bosham at (2811469-4599. TEAM COACH WANTED. Seattle, WA employer. Full time position. Must have bachelor's Degree or equivalent in Physical Educotion or related field, 3+ years coaching experience girls level 9-10, elite level experience required, strong spotting skills, thorough knowledge of competitive development system and proven coaching success by having qualified athletes notional/international competition. Must be eligible for USA Gymnastics professional membership and safety certification. Salary DOE. Send resume to: (fax)206-3624431 , mail to SGA 12535 26 Ave. NE Seattle WA 98125 or e-mail mail@seagym.com

FOR SALE SCORE MASTER, the most widely used Competition Management software, just got better! Announcing the WINDOWS version. This score keeping system is very easy-to·use and has on extensive on-line help. Supports: womens/ mens, individual/team, artistic/rhythmic, comp/ optional competitions. The most comprehensive reporting available. Comes with a 90 day unconditional money bock guarantee. For more info contact: Mark Mahoney, POB 31421, Charlotte, NC, 28231 -1421 , (704) 523-1812 or web site: www.score·master.com (software demo, info guide and user listing on web site). BALANCE 2000 by Akada Software. Managing studios since 1994. Windows based program. Tracks students, accounts and classes. Account and student moil codes, family discount tuition option, accounts receivable, one touch posting. Supports 10 locations/ sessions, multi coaches. Includes 150 different reports, print attendance lists, student lists, moiling labels and more. No extra charge for multi user/ network version. Y2K Compliant. Call for FREE full working demo 800·286-3471. www.akadasoftware.com VIDEOS AND TRAINING MANUALS. Wont all your lesson plans done for the year for both preschool and school-age? Patti Komara has done is all for you. Twenty-six lessons for a whole year. Hand-outs for both parents and students are included. Just finished August 1999. Patti also has 40 other videos that come with manuals on topics such as: Tumbling, Bars, and Beam for School-Age and Preschoolers, Activities for the Tumbl-Trak, Teaching Parent and Tot Classes with Lesson Plans, and much more. (219)865-2274. Patti's catalog of all her items con be found at www.tumblebear.com CLASS CONTROL for Windows 95/ 98. Closs Management and Accounts Receivable software. Pocked with features, easy to use, and network-

rl -= 4-= 6- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 (

able. Includes easy closs assignments, automatic tuition coiculation, family and special discounts, rosters, additional fees and charges, invoices, payment due reports, financial summaries, instructor schedules, mailing labels, context sensitive help, and much more. Supports sales tax and payment through direct debit. Only 5500 (5250 per additional workstation) and includes free training and unlimited technical support at no charge. Call Vaughn Software Services at 800821 -8516, PO Box 1086, Apex, NC 27502. v_u@bellsouth.net AMEX/ MC/VISA

with city utilities. The reputation is there. Step in now and take over. land Contract possibilities. Business and Building 5235,000. Business alone 545,000. For more information coli Glenna Stroud (517)423-3342. LENAWEE PROPERTIES, INC. (800)968-6083.

SEMINARS GET CONTROL OF YOUR BUSINESS: Find out why, since 1991, 10%+ (and growing) of USA Gym Club owners have made the decision to invest 4-1/2 days of their career at the GymClub Owners' BOOT CAMP. A basic premise of BOOT CAMP is that there are replicable and documentable reasons why some GymCiubs perpetually grow while others perpetually flounder. Following BOOT CAMP strategies, my club, Queen City Gymnastics, has grown for 25 years straight (Olympic cycle be darned!), storting with zero enrollment in 1975 and growing to 4,000 (52.5M) this year. Understand, this unparalleled growth record is not an accident: it is becouse we have followed the exact strategies we present at every BOOT CAMP. BOOT CAMP attacks medioc· rity because it focuses on cures not symptoms. Anybody can put on a great seminar with great ideas. Only BOOT CAMP immerses you in on integrated collection of strategies proven to alter mindsets, grow businesses and change lives. I GUARANTEE it will be worth your effort to call me for a FREE PORTFOLIO complete with testimonials and agenda. JEFF METZGER: (513)489-7575. Next camps: November 18-22, 1999, and March 16-20, 2000.

GymNerd2000 - GYMNASTIC SCHOOL MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE. Maintains database of student accounts, classes, tuition, and payments. Features sophisticoted tuition engine, automatic multi class discounts, automatic reenrollment with memorized invoices. Keeps track of payments, automatic late fees, wait lists, tuition prorating, class switching and dropping, trial classes, makeups, Pro· Shop and events scheduling. At your fingertips are class rosters and attendance sheets, class openings, instructor schedules/ attendance, inVOices/ statements, mailing labels. Password protected managerial revenues reports sorted by revenue types. Easy to learn, intuitive, user friend ly. Contact: MassData Database Systems. Phone: (617)923-9977. URL: www.massdata.com. Email: info@massdata.com THRIVING GYMNASTICS CLUB AVAILABLE now in growing Tecumseh, MI. 7200 sq. ft. of space, completely set up to meet U.S.A. meet specifications. Acre-plus setting on paved road

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD RATES 1-100 words 101 -200 words

SUBMIT Mail your ad and payment to: USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 or lox to 317-237-5069. 11 you fax, please include your credit card number, expiration date and signature.

=$100 =$200

Your ad in Technique will automaticalIy be placed online for 30 days at no additional charge. The address is: www.usa-gymnastics.org/classified/ Your 30 days will begin on the next regular posting date.

DEADLINES Issue

Please designate if your ad should appear in Technique magazine or USA Gymnastics magazine. ADS SUBMITIED WITHOUT PAYMENT WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. USA Gymnastics reserves the right to vary format.

Deadline lor ad and payment

January ..... .. ... ... .Dec. 10 February ...... Jan . 10 Ma rch . ........ .... .Feb. 10 April ........ ..... .... .Mar. 10 May ........... Apr. 10 June ........ ..... ... .Mar. 10 July . .......... ............ June 10 August .... July 10 Sept/ Oct... ............. Aug . 10 Nov./Dec. ....... ....... Oct. 10

Technique is received by more than 13,000 USA Gymnastics profession01 members plus thousands of viewers will be exposed to your ad online . Advertise your employment opportunity, product, service, or competition here for great results. Questions? Call Luan Peszek at 317-237-5050 ext. 246.

NOTE: If the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, the preceding work day is considered the deadline.

TEe H N 10 UE • VO LUME 19 • #9 )l--- - --

- - - - -- - - -

SCHEDULE W=Women M=Men

R=Rhythmic GG =General Gymnastics

TR =Trampoline TU =Tumbling

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

World Championships & Age-Group Games (lR!TU) Region 2 Congress (W) 23rd Rhythmic World Championships (R) Region 5 Congress

Sun City, RSA Portland, OR Osaka, JPN Oakbrook, Il

8-16 13-14 14-17 15-16 22-24 24-26 29-31 29-31

Artisti( World Championships (M/W) FIG Extroordinory Congress Region 6 Congress (W) FIG Medical Te(hnical Symposium USA Gymnasti(s GG Youth Camp U.S. Olympi( Congress National TOPs Testing-West (W) Region 7 Congress (W)

10/ 31-11 / 7

Jr. National Team Training Camp (M)

TIonjin, CHN TIanjin, CHN New York City, NY TIanjin, CHN Baltimore, MD Colo. Springs, CO Phoenix, AI Hunt Valley (Baltimore), MD Colo. Springs, CO

OCTOBER

Notional TOPs Testing-East (W) Future Stars Notional Championships (M) Coaches Workshops (M) USA Gymnasti(s Executive Committee/ Board Meetings

Ro(hester, NY Colo. Springs, CO Colo. Springs, CO Indionapolis, IN

DECEMBER 2-7 3-5 8-12 9-12

Colo. Springs, CO Tempe, Al Curitiba, BRA Tulso, OK

Sr. National Team Training Camp (M) USA National GymFest (GG) PAGU Jr. Interdub Chompionships (M/W) Notionol TOPs Camp (W)

Americon Cup Quolifier I

TBD

FEBRUARY 5 5-6 11-12 19 26 TBD

American Cup Qualifier II Rhythmi( Challenge (R) USA Gymnasti(s Winter Cup Chollenge (M) Olympi( Test Event (lR) Visa American Cup Finals (M/W) Ameri(an Classi( (W)

TBD Colo. Springs, CO las Vegas, NV Sydney, AUS Orlando, Fl TBD

International Competition (R) American Challenge (W)

TBD TBD

MARCH 4 TBD

APRIL 15-16 20-25 28-30 TBD TBD

J.O. Nationol Championships, Individual & Group (R) Sr. Pacific Allian(e Chompionships (M/W/R) level 9 East/West Championships (W) USA Gymnosti(s Collegiate Championships (M/W) USA Gymnastics National Invitational Tournament (W)

TBD Christ Church, NIL TBD TBD TBD

J.O. National Championships (M) J.O. National Championships (W) Rhythmic East/West Championships (R) USOC Olympi( Media Summit (M/W/R) Rhythmic East/West Championships (R) USA Gymnasti(s Executive Committee/ Board Meetings Mall Tour (M/W/R)

Austin, TX TBD TBD Houston, TX TBD Indianapolis, IN TBD

MAY 4-7 5-7 6-7 11 -15 13-14 19-21 May-Sept.

JUNE TBD

USA Gymnasti(s National Gym Fest (GG)

TBD

U.s. Classi(/National Gymnasti(s Festival (W)

Tulso, OK

JULY 7-9 -

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

SI. louis, MO

U.S. Olympi( Trials (M/W/R) USA Gymnasti(s Nationol Congress USA Gymnastics Classi( Gym Fest (GG)

Boston, MA Boston, MA TBD

St. louis, MO TBD

SEPTEMBER 9/16-10/ 1

Olympi( Games (M/W/ R!TR)

Sydney, AUS

Reese's Gymnastics Cup Post-Olympic Tour (M/W/ R!TR!TU)

TBD TBD

OCTOBER TBD T8D-TBD 2001

NOVEMBER 10-11 17 -19 20-26 TBD TBD TBD

Pontiac Internotional Team Championships (M/W Srs.) USA Gymnasti(s Executive Committee/Boord Meetings FIG Congress Future Stars National Chompionships (M) Coaches Workshop (M) USA Gymnastics National Gym Fest (GG)

Ri(hmond, VA Indianapolis, IN Marrake(h, MAR TBD TBD TBD

DECEMBER

FIG Men's Inter(ontinental Judges Course

CIE

JANUARY

American Cup Qualifier I

TBD

FEBRUARY 3 TBD TBD TBD 24

American Cup Qualifier II USA Gymnastics Winter Cup Challenge (M) Rhythmi( Challenge (R) American Classi(/ Ameri(an Challenge (W) Visa Ameri(an Cup Finals (M/W)

TBD TBD TBD TBD Orlando, Fl

MARCH

JANUARY 16

15-20 1B-21 TBD

TBD

NOVEMBER 5-7 11-13 11-14 12-14

TBD TBD

John Hanco(k U_S_Gymnasti(s Championships (M/W/R!TR!TU) Youth and Coaches Comp (GG) J_O. National Chompionships (lR!TU)

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER 9/20-10/3 24-26 9/2B-l0/3 9/ 30-10/ 3

26-29

------i( r EC H N IOU E

16-17 TBD

Pontio( International Team Championships (M/W Srs/ Jrs) TBD level 10 State Meets (W) Various Sites

APRIL NCAA Regionals (W) NCAA Regionals (M) USA Gymnasti(s Collegiate Championships (M/W) USA Gymnasti(s Nationallnvitotional Tournament (W) NCAA National Championships (W) NCAA National Championships (M) level 10 Regional Championships (W) J.O. National Championships, Individual & Group (R) level 9 Championships (R)

TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD

J.O. National Championships (M) J.O. National Championships (W) level 9 East/West Championships (W)

TBD TBD TBD

Pacific Ocean Basin Games (M/W/R) Elite Regionals (W)

Vancouver, CAN TBD

U.S. Challenge (W) U.S. Classi(/ National Gymnastics Festival (W) Elite Regionals (International Only) (W) Rhythmi( Eastern Open (R) Rhythmi( Western Open (R) World Championships & Age Group Games (lR!TU)

TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD Odense, DEN TBD

9-11 16-26

John Hanco(k u.s. Gymnasti(s Championships (M/W/ R!TR!TU) USA Gymnasti(s National Congress World Games (lR!TU)

VOlU ME 19

# 9 )1-- - - - - - - --

TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD

MAY TBD TBD TBD

JUNE 16-29 TBD

JULY TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD 7/ 26-8/ 4

AUGUST 8-11

TBD Akita, JPN - - - - - - - - ; ;41;7r11

The Safety Schedule is updated weekly on our website www.usa-gymnastics.org

1 999 Safety Certification Schedule LATE REGISTRATIONS ARE NOT GUARANTEED A BOOK OR ADMISSION TO THE COURSE. Monday, (by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard TIme) is the last day registrations will be accepted for courses being conducted the following weekend. Registrations received after that time or on site will be charged an additional $25.

Minimum age for Safety Certification is J7!h years

24 Noblesville, IN; 4·8 p.m.; course bd092499in Noblesville Jr. High Instructor: Barry Dubuque 812·473·3232, 812·482·4800

11 Penfield, NY; 9:00 a.m.·2:00 p.m.; course sel 01199ny The Gymnastics Training Center; Instructor: Sarah Jane Clifford 716·388·8686

25 Pennington, NJ; 3:45 registration 4·9 p.m.; course cf092599nj; Motion Gymnastics; 55 Rt 31 So Instructor: Cathy Finkel 973·586·1808

15 Roswell, GA; 6·10 p.m.; course cel 01599ga Roswell Rec Instructor: Chris Colvert 404·687·9911

25 Mt. laurel, NJ; 4·8 p.m.; course pf092599nj Jersey Jets Gymnastics; 20 ARoland Ave local contact: Eileen Houghton 856·273·2822 Instructor: Phil Fronk 856·786·3977

28 Hunt Volley, MD; 6·10 p.m.; course jp 102899md Region VII Mini Congress Instructor: John Perno 410·857·8316

26 South Miami, Fl; 12·4 p.m.; course mI092699f1 South Miami Gymnastics Instructor: Marti levine 305·861 ·8753

SEPTEMBER 18 Columbus, OH; 3:30·7:30 p.m.; course bf0918990h Universal Gymnasts, Inc.; 4555 Knightsbridge Blvd Instructor: Bobbi Montanari·Fahrnboch 614·457·1279

OCTOBER lake Zurick, Il; 2:00·6:00 p.m.; course rb 100299i1 U.5.G.lC; local contact: leann Kronforst 847-540·9900 Instructor: Robert Brown 630·801 ·9978

18 Son Jose, CA; 9 a.m.·1:30 p.m.; course hf091899ca California Sports Center locol contact: Dove Peterson 408·246·7795 Instructor: Hiroshi Fujimoto 831 ·373·1694

NOVEMBER Edison, NJ; 3:45 registration 4·9 p.m.; course cl11 0699nj Henderson's Gymnastics; 216 TIngley lone Instructor: Cathy Finkel 973·586·1808

DECEMBER 18 Pork City, UT; 2:00·6:00 p.m.; course kh 121899ut 81ack Diamond Gymnastics Instructor: Katy Heddens 435·615·1800

Cranberry Township, PA; 3:00·7:00 p.m.; course jjl 00999po; Xcel Gymnastics; 220 Executive Rood locol contact: Kathy Klein 724·772·0055 Instructor: Jeannette Joy

1B Oceanside, CA; 2·6 pm; course ng091899ca 225 Brooks Street Instructor: Nicki Geigert 760·943·6986

r--------------------------------------------, SAFETY CERTIFICATION IS REQUIRED FOR PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIp· PRE-REGISTRATION FORM (Minimum age for Salety Certilication is J7Y2 years) Nome: Soc. Sec. #

Birth Dole

Address: City:

Zip:

State:

Telephone: (H) Course Director:

Dote:

Organization represented: Professional or Inslructor #: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Current Safety Exp. Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ Form of Payment:

OVISA

• You must have your USA Gymnastics number or date applied for on the registration form in order to qualify for the discount. YOU MAY NOT REGISTER FOR A COURSE TO RECERTIFY ANY EARLIER THAN 6 MONTHS PRIOR TO YOUR EXPIRATION DATE.

(W)

Course City/State:

COST: Pro·Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to recertify .......................................................... no charge Pro·Member with Expired or New Safety Certification ............ S 50.00 Instructor Member ................................................................ S 50.00 Non·Member or Associate Member ........................................ S 100.00

o MasterCard o Discover o American Express

Monday, (by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) is the last day registrations will be accepted lor courses being conducted the lollowing weekend. Registrations received alter that time or on site will be charged an additional $25.

• All materials (including the Safety Handbook) for 4th Cycle courses are provided at the course and are part of the course fee: • Certification is valid for four years. • To achieve Safety Certification, the participant must be at least 17Y1 years of age at the time of the course.

Please make checks payable, in full, to USA Gymnastics Safety Certification Payment Amount: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Mail registration form and payment to: Nome on Cord: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ USA Gymnastics Member Services ~ Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 Number: 201 South Capitol Avenue GYMNASTICS Indianapolis, IN 46225 PREFERS VISA' · t L Exp. _____________________________________________ 0aIe: ___ / ___ SIgno ure: or Fax to 317-692.5212