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Question
I have started working layouts and I seem to not be able to maintain a tight body throughout the rotation. It's not that I pike over alot but its more of a spoon shape with my hips and core loose right when I'm finishing and about to land. Do you have any exercises or drills that I can do to help with this? Should I squeeze my abs before I start the run for my pass so I they can already be contracted when I'm rebounding into the layout?
Thanks
Hi Joseph,
"Body looseness" just before landing a layout backward somersault is usually an indication that the performer failed to completely follow-through on the take-off and airborne phases of the skill. In other words, attempt to continue the back-upward throw of the head and trunk throughout the entire airborne phase. In addition, the muscles on both the front and back sides of your body should be reasonably activated during the airborne phase so that your total body moves as one functional unit. Done properly your legs and feet should be reaching downward in preparation for the landing.
I hope this helps!
Jerry
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Answers by Expert:
Gerald S. George, Ph.D.
Expertise
Questions specific to gymnastics biomechanics, technique, and training in all events. Questions specific to safety in gymnastics, cheerleading and acrosport.
Experience
I have been involved in gymnastics for over 50 years either as a competitor, coach, clinician or judge. I have conducted gymnastics clinics in the U.S., Canada, China, Australia and Europe. As Director of Education & Safety for the USAG (formerly USGF)from 1985 - 1990,I developed the first USAG National Gymnastics Safety Certification Program including serving as Editor and Project Director for the USGF Gymnastics Safety Manual.I also was a voting member of the F.I.G. General Gymnastics Committee from 1985-1989.
Publications
I am the author of "Biomechanics of Women's Gymnastics" (Prentice-Hall, Inc. Englewood-Cliffs, NJ) which was the best selling women's gymnastics textbook in the world for 3 consecutive years.
I have published over 100 articles specific to gymnastics biomechanics and technique in a variety of publications including "The Gymnast Magazine", "USGF Technique Magazine", and the "JOPHER".
I have just completed a new textbook entitled "Concepts of Women's Gymnastics" which will be available to the public in January 2010.
Education/Credentials
I received a B.S. from Louisiana State University with a major in Health & Physical Education.
I received a M.S. from Springfield College (Massachusetts) with a major in Biomechanics.
I recieved my Ph.D. from Louisiana State University with a major in Biomechanics and a minor in Psychology.
Awards and Honors
USAG Gymnasticss Hall of Fame Inductee; AACCA American Spirit Award for Cheerleading Safety; Patrick Rutherford Endowed Professorship; A.A.H.P.E.R.D. Presidential Citation Safety Award; United States Diving Safety Service Award; F.I.G. Outstanding Lecturer Award; United States Gymnastics Federation Honor Award;
University of Louisiana Distinguished Professor Award; American Corrective Therapy Association Service Award; Recognition Award for Research in Sports Biomechanics; National Association of College Gymnastics Coaches Research Award; Hartley Price Honor Research Award; C.H. McCloy Research Award.
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