AboutJack Leonard Expertise Former 5 time Natl. Tumbling Champ, 3 time Natl. Vaulting Champ, Natl. Floor
Exercise Champ; Ass`t coach of Dominique Dawes for 6 years; Owner/Director/Head coach of Kauai Gymnastics Academy on the island of Kauai in Hawaii; Retired Physical Ed teacher; Childrens Fitness Expert; Expert Consultant for gymnastics litigation; Retired Mens & Womens HS Gymnastics coach for 32 years. National coaching honors for Men in 1981 & Women in 2001.
Experience I value the following awards because they were given by acknowlegement through my peers: The Nissen/Grissold Award given to the outstanding Tumbling and Tramp Athlete(1972), National High School coach of the year in 1981 for men and 2001 for women, 10 time County Coach of the Year. Medal Award given at the first World Tumbling Championships in London, England for dedication to the sport. Lastly, having the opportunity to coach Wes Suter(1988 Olympian)in his intermediate years and Dominique Dawes(1992 & 1996)
My 7 year old daughther (~43lbs) is working on her level 5 KIP. She is getting all the proper instruction, privates, and training necessary. I have read your answers on strength training and Tips for the KIP. My wife and daughter are now thinking they want a home use KIP bar (~$400). Is this a good or a bad idea? Would like your input on this.
Thank you,
brett
Answer Hello Brett,
Repetition is the key. Practicing teaches the athlete to make adjustments. When an athlete performs an element wrong and it feels wrong…..they can fix it. This is very valuable to owning the skill. Having a bar at home WILL make the gymnast better as long as their strength is mightier than the skill. Leg lifts and pull ups are essential. Even leg lifts with ankle weights. Jump to support will help with the wrist turn too. Make sure to use some chalk and if she can wear her grips….it will imitate her gym workout in a much better fashion. Get the kip bar and good luck. If she has a birthday coming up, that would be a huge gift. Take Care and I wish you daughter the best in her kip quest.
Jack Leonard
