Fundamentals

Many coaches put too much emphasis on skills. Why are gymnastics stunts important, anyway? Every gymnast can do some skills & cannot yet do other skills.

Learning skills is only worthwhile if it is FUN — and contributes to a positive self-image.

Good coaches ensure that skill goals for every gymnast are realistic and achievable. Difficult skills like Kip, for example, frustrate many children. Be careful not to put too much emphasis on overly difficult tricks. FUN and FITNESS are much more important goals.

Yet if your program is FUN; if the kids are improving FITNESS; learning gymnastics skills can be very healthy.

People find it very FUN to accomplish a new skill. Good coaches orchestrate practice to make sure that every child learns something every day.

Tips for teaching good gymnastics FUNDAMENTALS:

• work basics rather than big tricks
• require many achievable progressions
• reward success (e.g. stickers, gold stars, etc.)
• require good form & body position

A simple way to improve fundamentals is to use a foam sponge. For example, once kids can do a backward roll down a sloped mat, challenge them to do the roll holding a sponge between their feet or knees.

Never demand that any gymnast do a specific drill as this can be a big turn-off; instead encourage kids to achieve things in their own time. Some of the best gymnasts in the world are slow, steady learners.

Spend a good deal of time on gymnastics dance, especially for girls. It is easy for kids to improve their artistry & it can be FUN. Best not to call your dance program ballet (old fashioned) but rather hip hop or something else the kids will find cool.

Go slow, have FUN. In a healthy program gymnasts should improve skills rapidly without the coach pushing. Gymnasts should be asking the coach for more challenge, the coach trying to slow them down.

Don’t worry, be happy.

Some photos on this page from Christchurch School of Gymnastics. <website>