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About 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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Gymnastics - too old?

Expert: Gerald S. George, Ph.D. - 10/27/2009

Question
Hi, I'm 23 years old, and would love to get into gymnastics. my little sister is in level 5 and makes it look like so much fun! (And a lot of hard work) But i'm wondering if i'm too old, too tall, too big, or any of those. i'm 5'9'' and 130lbs, with above average flexibility. I can still do back and front walkovers, the splits, and L and R handed cartwheels. I'm not looking to compete, but a fun way to work my body hard and get great results (toning and skills alike!) Any and all advice would be great. Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Erica,

One is never too old to enjoy gymnastics participation. In fact, people from all over the world participate is "general gymnastics" and even have national and international festivals to celebrate the beauty of this marvelous activity. Goggle F.I.G. - General Gymnastics.

Additionally gymnastics is a tremendous fitness activity provided, of course, one tempers it with reality. Given your age, size and experience, I would suggest that you become involved in Floor Exercise and dance activities primarily. You also might want to consider a number of ancillary fitness activities such as weight training, pilates and mini-triathlons.

Hope this helps out!

Jerry

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