Across the US, there are several different competitive gymnastics programs, but the two with the largest participation are the Xcel program, and the Developmental Program (formerly known as Junior Olympic, or JO), both run by USA Gymnastics (USAG). Parents new to competitive gymnastics often wonder which is the right path for their child, and while …

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I’d love to see one or more columns on the physics of various gymnastics skills, especially on bars. I took up a different flying-through-the-air sport as a young adult and was always fascinated by the conversion of linear motion into rotational motion. -mommyof1 Before I start, let me just thank mommyof1 for handing me this …

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In a perfect world, every gymnast would start and finish in one gym where excellent coaching, supportive teammates, and a plenty of opportunity for athlete growth combine to create an ideal atmosphere. In reality, somewhere along the line many parents find themselves wondering if it’s time to make a gym switch. But, uprooting a gymnast …

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It’s one of the most frustrating things about gymnastics, fear and mental blocks. With all the athletes I work with it’s the issue that causes the most stress, not only for the athletes and  coaches, but for the PARENTS as well.  You try not to think it, but the unthinkables come anyway, “I’m paying so much money …

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Kohei Uchimura at 2014 World Championships “How do you *really* define a stuck landing”? Does it mean no steps or is there more to it?”-PreciousJ The short answer No movement of the feet, back straight, knees bent, no excessive movement for balance, and a complete stop. For maximum score, the upper torso should be upright …

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