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Gymnasts Resistance Training

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Resistance Training

According to Sleeper, Kenyon, & Casey (2012), for gymnasts core training is very important. Gymnastics is a sport that engages the muscles of the entire upper and lower body. Along with training the rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis, and inner and outer obliques, strengthening the core involves the stabilization of the pelvis (mid body), the shoulder girdle (upper body), as well as the spine (upper-mid/lower body). Bodyweight exercises are the main type of training modality used by gymnasts to prepare for competitions (Behm, & Colado, 2012). Plyometrics are beneficial for gymnasts because these dynamic and explosive movements allow the athlete to increase strength and speed which are both necessary in order to …show more content…

Gymnasts must train for maximum strength gains, with little hypertrophy, in order maintain a slim physique (Sands, McNeal, Jenni, & Delong, 2000). Gymnasts have to be careful, because they cannot gain too much muscle mass, to the point where they are too heavy for their event (Sands et al., 2000). If they are too heavy it will weigh them down, decrease performance, and limit their range of motion. Gymnasts must be able to train for strength relative to body weight rather than total strength (Sands et al., …show more content…

Gymnasts can perform the stability ball pike, stability ball jackknife, slide plank, stability ball rollout, and front plank (Major, 1996). These exercises will help the gymnast be able to hold positions need for competition for a long duration of time. Gymnasts can also perform pushups, handstand holds, stand up on toe, stand toe raises, and bar dips to improve their muscular strength (Major, 1996). The exercises help improve individual muscles that will be used during the sport (Major, 1996). They also include movements that are used during the completion as well. The assistant exercises not only will help with movement, and strength, but will also help stabilize the joints (Major,

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