| Subject | Date Asked |
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| Trouble at competitions | 9/22/2009 |
Q: I just can't win anything at competitions. I just can't place in anything at competitions. I had a ...
A: I'm sorry to hear you are so frustrated. It seems like you really need to communicate your ...
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| Nervous at competitions and getting high scores | 9/17/2009 |
Q: Here is my problem, when I practise my routines at my gymnastics club they are really good and stuff ...
A: I like to tell people that there are actually 5 events...vault, bars, beam, floor, AND competition. ...
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| am i too old? | 9/8/2009 |
Q: hi and thanks for taking my question im 15 and turning 16 in march im about 5 foot and have ...
A: You are never too old to do gymnastics. You can always do skills that are at your level. College ...
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| stand up from bridge | 9/7/2009 |
Q: I hope you can help! My daughter is 6 and is in a gymnastic squad, she has mastered so many moves ...
A: She can practice from her knees. In high kneeling position, there are 3 drills. Straight body ...
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| LEVEL 9 SKILLS | 9/3/2009 |
Q: my daughter is a level 9 this year. Is there a book i can purchase that will break down for me what ...
A: The Code of Points is the only official book that lists the rules. It is available for purchase at ...
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| re:level 7 skills | 8/13/2009 |
Q: Can a gymnast of level 7 do a double turn in her floor routine or just single turn is aloud?
A: It is my understanding as per the new rules cycle, that a 2/1 turn on floor is NOT an allowable ...
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| Leg Straightening | 8/4/2009 |
Q: It's Ariana again! Another question- I need to work on straightening my legs (particularly one leg)! ...
A: !! Try doing what I call a "tip up". It is basically a handstand that you never close your legs ...
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| Adult Gymnastics Elements | 7/31/2009 |
Q: I am an adult gymnast who is competing for the first time in over 10 years in the AAU Ladies ...
A: An acro series is two or more tumbling skills "directly" connected. With or without flight means ...
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| high bar kip | 7/29/2009 |
Q: My daughter is having so much dificulty with her kip. She is inconsistent with her glide kip, but ...
A: The simple answer...The kip is the single most frustrating skill in gymnastics if you are asking me! ...
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| Floor and Bar | 7/25/2009 |
Q: Please help us... We are an amateour club in New Zealand,Golden Bay and we have some questions we ...
A: I can help with some but it seems you use a little different terminology than here in the US. I am ...
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| right or left | 6/22/2009 |
Q: I would like to know what kind of deductions are given if a gymnast switches from right to left in a ...
A: The deduction for reversing a compulsory element that is not allowed to be reversed is 1/2 the value ...
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| Gymnastics Flyaways | 6/21/2009 |
Q: Okay, so i just moved up to level 6 about 1 month ago, We're starting to learn flyaways. When my ...
A: I know learning a skill like this can be frustrating. You just need to trust yourself (and your ...
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| Level 5 Floor Routine | 6/17/2009 |
Q: In the level 5 floor routine, coming out of the split, is the leg supposed to come around in a high ...
A: When dealing with compulsory routines, you should always refer to the text. The text states; ...
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| Cartwheels | 5/24/2009 |
Q: I am 12 years old and have decided to join gymnastics for just some fun. (And that's what it has ...
A: Great name!! And spelling! I have a 12yr old daughter Ariana Maria! Two ways to help the ...
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| Floor routine | 5/16/2009 |
Q: i have to do up a floor rountine for competitive girls and im stuck with it. The last time i did a ...
A: You need to know what the requirements for the routine are. For example, do they need a turn, what ...
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| What to do...? | 4/25/2009 |
Q: I recently just turned 15 and joined a competitive team in January. I had been evaluated by a ...
A: Sounds like your asking my opinion. Without more information it is difficult to give you a solid ...
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| flexabiity | 4/20/2009 |
Q: I've recently started teen gymnastics and want to get my middle split. I have been trying for ages ...
A: The middle split is not a critical split to have. It is more important that you can sit in a ...
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| Vault running | 4/18/2009 |
Q: I'm the fastest on my soccer team and in my gymnastics class. When I do vaulting I start out ...
A: You need to get your steps consistent. Always start on the same foot is rule one. Then you need to ...
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| Back handspring | 3/20/2009 |
Q: I am very close to my back handspring. I can/could do it on the trampoline and off the end of a ...
A: In no way could I encourage you to just go for it. If you have a fear, you need to do many many ...
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| age | 3/13/2009 |
Q: how old is to old to start gymnastics? my daughter is almost 15 she started a tumlbing class 9 ...
A: In my opinion, there is no "too old" to "start" gymnastics. What expectations that can be made ...
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| Backhandspring | 2/28/2009 |
Q: I've been working on my backhandspring for the past year. it seems as if I have it, it's just that ...
A: Without seeing your back handspring, diagnosing the problem is a bit tough. Sometimes it is simply ...
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| Level 8 requirements | 2/23/2009 |
Q: Pam, 1. Can you please list out for me the Level 8 USAG requirements for gymnastics. Our ...
A: I'm sorry but you will need to ask your coach for a "complete" list of requirements. You do not ...
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| Gymnastics frustrations... | 2/19/2009 |
Q: I'm having a lot of issues lately, and it's driving me cray. I'm hoping you can give me some ...
A: Sorry about the delay. Don't be too discouraged, walls are meant to be broken down! Some skills ...
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| level 8 | 1/18/2009 |
Q: My daughter is a 12 year old level 8 gymnast. She has had mental blocks with going backwards off and ...
A: I have responded to this question several time and referenced a few articles. You can find those ...
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| Spotting Techniques | 1/12/2009 |
Q: I am a new gymnastics coach and am looking to find resources (books, videos, etc) that can help me ...
A: The best resources you can find are gymnastics clinics. Go to your states usa gymnastics site and ...
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| Should I quit gymnastics and go back to rec? | 12/18/2008 |
Q: I think you've helped me before with my flip flop on beam phobia, and it went well so i decided to ...
A: First, I'm glad I was able to help you in the past. Now for this dilemma... I don't understand ...
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| PO Intermediate | 12/11/2008 |
Q: I just switched from level 6 to PO Intermediate. I heard the coaches talking about B elements. ...
A: I'm not sure what PO is...prep-optional? But a B elements is a reference to the difficulty rating a ...
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| L4 Beam Routine | 12/10/2008 |
Q: I am curious about a couple things, and since I noticed in your profile that you have been a judge ...
A: I'm not able to break the entire routine down or all of the deductions, that is just too time ...
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| Bar height, roundoff and back tuck | 12/9/2008 |
Q: I'm 12 and tall enough (5'5 ft.) so that if I was to do a giant I'd probably whack into the low ...
A: Your coach should know the regulations for adjusting the bar settings. There are many gymnasts your ...
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| Beam issues and progression to Level 5 | 12/8/2008 |
Q: I am hoping that your experience as both a coach, and judge, will be able to help me with my ...
A: You don't mention if this is your daughter's first or second season competing Level 4. I'm a big ...
|
| A cast | 12/5/2008 |
Q: What's an A cast on bars? My daughter is getting deducted because it is not a high enough angle - ...
A: If you picture the hands on a clock...12:00 being a handstand, 3:00 being a cast to horizontal with ...
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| tour jete 1/2 | 11/26/2008 |
Q: How do i do a tour jete 1/2. I am a lefty, and have a very good switch leap. I can't seem to find ...
A: I will use a right split on this description. Start with a Tour Jete that hits 180* Then work ...
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| Level 7 routines | 11/24/2008 |
Q: What are the required skills needed for the beam? What are the required skills needed for the floor? ...
A: Beam; minimum 1/1 turn 180 leap/jump Acro series w/min of 2 A elements w/or w/o flight AND 1 acro ...
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| Level 7 | 11/23/2008 |
Q: I have a question about level 7 bars. We just had a meet this weekend and a few girls got 9.5 start ...
A: The requirements for Level 7 Bars; "A" cast (21-45 degrees from verticle) This is probably the ...
|
| pleaseee help, i'm in desperate need. | 11/13/2008 |
Q: and was doing pretty good. i moved up to the medium beam with pad and spot, and was still doing ...
A: I've answered several questions regarding fear. I copied those responses in addition to what I ...
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| USAG 5 and 6 beam | 10/15/2008 |
Q: I have asked several judges this question and have not received a definitive answer. On beam is a ...
A: The answer I got from our regional technical chair is... "If you look at the text in the compulsory ...
|
| Level 6 fly away dismount | 10/12/2008 |
Q: I have been unable to get rotation on my fly away. I was successful in getting the fly away over a ...
A: First, 5'1" should be a very managable spot. That is not tall by any means. That being said... It ...
|
| USAG Level 2 Gymnastics | 10/3/2008 |
Q: Do you know where I can find the Level 2 Floor music? Thank you
A: usa-gymnastics.org...online store...technical materials...women's program. There is also a phone # ...
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| USAG level 7 beam routine | 9/28/2008 |
Q: My daughter does a split leap in her beam routine, but no other jumps. Are any other jumps ...
A: A dance series is what many of us refer to as a micro-requirement. It is used in Levels 8-10 and ...
|
| levels | 9/22/2008 |
Q: How do the rules apply when skipping one of the levels like level six do you have to compete it or ...
A: This is not my area of expertise. However... This is what I found on the USA Gymnastics website... ...
|
| Back walkover on beam | 9/18/2008 |
Q: First, I have gone through and read a lot of your posts and you give great information. Thank you ...
A: It usually isn't a "back" flexibility issue, it is the shoulders. She should concentrate on ...
|
| Level 10 squat on question | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I have a question about bars. In level 10 you can do 1 squat on and then every squat on after that ...
A: Good thing to follow up!!! Your first question was not clear ( I had actually asked someone to ...
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| Level 10 squat on question | 9/6/2008 |
Q: I have a question about bars. In level 10 you can do 1 squat on and then every squat on after that ...
A: It's the squat on with the jumping to the high bar that gets counted whether there is a sole circle ...
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| high school gymnastics | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I am going to be in high school gymnastics and I was wondering what the requirements are for NFHS ...
A: This is an extensive question. I'll do the best I can with time restrictions. You can find a lot ...
|
| Press to Handstand | 8/20/2008 |
Q: I have been trying to do press to handstand (sitting on the floor in a pike position and press to ...
A: My favorite choice would be if you had access to parallettes. That would give you the clearance to ...
|
| General | 7/13/2008 |
Q: I am 11 years old and I've been doing gymnastics for about 2 months. I have some questions ...
A: Sounds like you are really determined. That's a great thing in this sport. It does sound like you ...
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| Backbend kickover | 7/11/2008 |
Q: My eight year old daughter has recently skipped level two after completing level one.She has been ...
A: With the back walkover, she is probably generating momentum that she is having difficulty figuring ...
|
| I lost it!!!! | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I went on vacatiion with my family to Mexico for 2 weeks and I lost most of my skills. I cry every ...
A: Patience, patience... I promise, the skills only took a vacation too. They will be back in less ...
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| Some skill questions | 6/17/2008 |
Q: again, for your answer about the floor routine. I have one (hopefully) more question about skills. ...
A: I answered a question about "B's" about a month ago. I'm pasting that answer here. It's a pretty ...
|
| level 7 | 6/12/2008 |
Q: I am training level 7 right now and am working on some routine comp. I have a list of skills and ...
A: These are the requirements. 5 A's, 2 B's on bars, beam, and floor. Vault-group 1 w/no more than ...
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| Questioned tumbling | 6/7/2008 |
Q: I have been doing tumbling for 6 months and I finally got my round-off back-hand-spring. When I do ...
A: It seems you are asking my opinion. My opinion is, you don't quite believe in yourself and your ...
|
| usag and GIJO optional | 6/3/2008 |
Q: My first question regards USAG optional level vaults. From what I have seen they need to perform ...
A: I know I answered this question but the system just sent me a notice saying it wasn't received. ...
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| level 9 | 6/1/2008 |
Q: I need to find out what the additive value for connections only means for level 9. Is there a level ...
A: Level 9 starts from a 9.7. They need to acheive .30 in bonus to attain a 10.0. They can only do ...
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| USAG Level 5 Floor Routine-Lefty | 5/31/2008 |
Q: My level 5 daughter is referred to as a lefty since she splits and leaps better with her left leg. ...
A: From the rules book, "All exercises may be reversed int heir entirety; however no single element may ...
|
| mental block tumbling | 5/23/2008 |
Q: My 16-year old daughter is a level 10 gymnast (JO) who has been twisting (without meaning to) on all ...
A: At this point, I would recommend a sports psychologist. It seems like the coach has done all the ...
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| Level 5 - Floor | 5/21/2008 |
Q: What is the value of the back extension roll in a level 5 floor routine? I am told that my daughter ...
A: The back extension is worth 0.60. There are deductions for elbow bend, leg and feet positions, ...
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| floor & beam elements | 5/19/2008 |
Q: Rules have changed since I first competed, so I need some help. I have a few questions - at level ...
A: Good for you!!! Floor B's straddle jump pike jump tuck jump 1/1 wolf 1/2 switch leap side leap 1 ...
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| Level 10 bonus | 5/18/2008 |
Q: For some reason I get stuck on the bonus for level 10 bars. I do have a few more questions that I ...
A: 1) I am not sure of the first combo you are describing. I included a giant 1/2, front giant 1/2, ...
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| Level 10 bonus | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I have a few questions about level 10 bonus points. 1. I know that a “D” skill separately is 1 ...
A: The bonus can get tricky! Yes the tuck jump-straddle 3/4 = .1 connective + .1 difficulty for .2 ...
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| Team gymnastics- Level 4 | 5/1/2008 |
Q: I've recently asked my coach about starting level 4 team and he said once I get a few more skills ...
A: In NJ the Level 4 season is in the Fall and Winter. Your coach decides how many meets the team ...
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| Level 8 Beam options | 4/4/2008 |
Q: Pam, Your information really helped our daughter with her Level 7 routines. She is moving on to ...
A: A pike dismount is not a "B". It is an "A" handstand mount (jump or press) tuck jump 1/2 twist ...
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| front handspring vaulting help and back tuck | 4/1/2008 |
Q: My first question is about my front handspring on vault. I have been working on this skill for a ...
A: You say you can't feel yourself arching, can you feel yourself hollowing??? I always tell my ...
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| Comp, L4 FX R/L sidedness judging | 3/31/2008 |
Q: CAn you clarify the rule on sidedness. The comp. sheets and judging guidelines state hand wave ...
A: If I understand your question correctly, you are asking me if judges prefer a "Righty" over a ...
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| level 7 routine | 3/30/2008 |
Q: I'm am a level 7 gymnast. I am very good at beam and floor, ok at vault, but i really struggle on ...
A: It is not a requirement of the rules to do giants, however you can receive a small deduction for ...
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| daughter's gym | 3/29/2008 |
Q: My daughter just turned 7 in March. She has been in gymnastics since she was 3 years old. She ...
A: It sounds, quite honestly, that although your daughter has some talent, she is not among the most ...
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| Dancing | 3/15/2008 |
Q: When I dance I feel weird and I feel like I look retarted. Please help
A: You need to trust your coaches and do as they saywhen it comes to dance. They want you to go out ...
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| P.R.E.P. | 3/13/2008 |
Q: My daughter's gym just started a PREP Optional team. I am still a bit confused on the skills. What ...
A: There are too many B and C skills to list. Some B's are back handspring on beam, giant or clear hip ...
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| Gymnasyics Routine | 3/11/2008 |
Q: I am having a hard time coming up with a routine, so i could use all the help that is offered. I am ...
A: This is not really my area of expertise, however I could offer the suggestion that you keep it to ...
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| Wearing heel cups during competition | 3/10/2008 |
Q: My daughter has Sever's Disease and wears Tulis Cheetah heel cups. Do you know if these are ...
A: I would suggest you contact your Regional Technical Chairman. You would need to know what region ...
|
| front tumbling | 2/29/2008 |
Q: my daughter is a 11 year old level 7 gymnast. She has had a mental block with "going backwards" for ...
A: What I believe you are asking is "would doing a third front pass hurt her score?" The only way it ...
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| front tuck connection series on floor | 2/19/2008 |
Q: Pam, My daughter came home from gymnastics frustrated. She is in level 7 and cannot get her front ...
A: My opinion is not to do the front handspring-front handspring if she can at least go for the ...
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| Series | 2/18/2008 |
Q: For high school gymnastics i wanted to know about the acro series. Right now i do cartwheel, dive ...
A: The series you describe is the same whether it is with a cartwheel or switch-leg back walkover. So ...
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| cartwheel on high beam | 2/15/2008 |
Q: I've been doing gymnastics for over 3 years and still can't get my feet on the high beam. What do ...
A: Without much more, my first thought is...do you watch your foot land???...on the beam???? You need ...
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| becoming a judge | 2/14/2008 |
Q: I am very interested in doing so, but do not know exactly where to start. Does the initial test ...
A: Keli, I'm including the link to the NAWGJ. http://www.nawgj.org/becoming_a_judge.htm This should ...
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| Level 5 bar deduction | 2/13/2008 |
Q: My daughter is currently competing USAG Level 5. She does quite well on all events except for bars. ...
A: What you are asking sounds more like a coaching decision. Without actually seeing her do the ...
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| scoring | 2/11/2008 |
Q: I have been attending the women's gymnastics meets at Southeast Missouri State University for a ...
A: This address gives you a bunch of sites that might help you out without having to buy anything. ...
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| Starting value of a routine | 12/1/2007 |
Q: anyway I am currently doing high school gymnastics. we us the NHSF rules with the superior, high ...
A: Lose the clear hip on the low bar. Go kip-squat on-straddle back-kip-squat on-long hang kip(I ...
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| Girls level 4 gymnastics scoring | 11/27/2007 |
Q: This is my daughters 2nd year in level 4. She is 11. She competed at Sectionals and received 1.5 ...
A: It sounds like she may have done a skill in each routine incorrectly. ( Possibly went to handstand ...
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| please helpp | 11/25/2007 |
Q: I want to compete in the first meet this season which is about a month away and inorder to do taht i ...
A: You don't mention too much on tumbling skills. You need a tumbling series. This can include the ...
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| level 5 leap on beam | 11/19/2007 |
Q: My question is about the level 5 beam routine. My daughter is about to compete in her first level 5 ...
A: The text says; land on the right leg in demi-plie with the left leg extended backward and turned ...
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| Level 7 Floor | 11/16/2007 |
Q: I have an urgent question regarding the USAG Level 7 Floor leap/jump requirement. My daughter's ...
A: The issue of the jump landing on the knees...It would be hard to make a decisive decision without ...
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| PLEASE ANSWER! | 11/14/2007 |
Q: I hope you can answer my question because I tried to ask two other experts but both have ignored it. ...
A: I'm sorry you've had difficulty in getting a response. Remember though, this is volunteer, and we ...
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| Private Lessons vs. Classes | 11/3/2007 |
Q: I know that a lot of people think private lessons aren't worth it, but I was just wondering what ...
A: Only doing gymnastics twice a month makes it tough to retain skills. I would check out your old gym ...
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| "Getting" a KIP | 10/29/2007 |
Q: My daughter seems to lack the strength to accomplish the KIP. Are there any at-home strength ...
A: For me the best choice is if you have a chin up bar in the house; straight leg lifts. That is the ...
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| L5 Bars | 10/26/2007 |
Q: My daughter is working on the L5 USAG compulsory routine. Her first meet is coming up soon, and I'm ...
A: It's your daughter's first meet. Relax and enjoy it. Don't worry that the routine is not perfect ...
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| Disadvantages to moving up to fast? | 10/22/2007 |
Q: Pam, My daughter is 10, has been in gymnastics for two and a half years and is competing level 6 ...
A: It really depends on your daughter's ability. Is she at the top of her age group? If so then it ...
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| level 8 bars | 10/6/2007 |
Q: I have a kid who is going to do level 8 this year and I am not sure what her release to the high bar ...
A: It sounds like you are describing a sole circle w/counter flight to catch the high bar. This skill ...
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| help me | 10/3/2007 |
Q: im 14 and im on a dance team, im one of about three girls who dont have ther right and left splits. ...
A: I would suggest you ask your coach for additional stretches to do at home...then do them daily. ...
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| high school gymnastics | 9/30/2007 |
Q: I was a level 7 gymnast last year and would be an 8 this year. I was wondering what level 8 skills ...
A: High School rules vary from state to state. You need to tell me if you use NFHS rules (superiors, ...
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| switch leap level 7 beam | 9/8/2007 |
Q: I was recently told that a switch leap is a "c" skill. My daughters coach has one in her level 7 ...
A: Sorry this took a bit. This is a nutty time of year for me!! Anyway, I don't like to answer if I ...
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| Level 7 skills | 8/27/2007 |
Q: My daughter just learned her level 7 routine for floor and beam. I was wondering if you could tell ...
A: These are the requirements. Vault-group 1 w/no more than 360* (handsprings) Bars- min. 1 bar ...
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| Back Walkover | 7/9/2007 |
Q: Every time i do a back walkover i try as hard as i can to kick over. It's not working so well for ...
A: A backwalkover is different from the kickover because there is no pause, kind of like a cartwheel ...
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| roundoff back handsprings, front hip circle, kips, and back walkovers on beam. | 6/22/2007 |
Q: Sorry for so many questions. I am a 12 year old almost-Level-5 gymnast. I really need my roundoff ...
A: Sounds like your coach is doing all the right things with you. It sounds like at times you do "sit ...
|
| Persistent Fears and Mental Blocks | 6/22/2007 |
Q: My daughter is a 12 year old level 7 who has an ongoing problem with the back handspring on beam. ...
A: I am attaching a good article on backwards fear from this past summer in Technique Magazine. ...
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| Level 4 Tops | 6/12/2007 |
Q: I recently found out that my daughter was not chosen for a TOPS program that they have started at ...
A: Tops is not my area of expertise. It is however, within the coach's rights to pick and choose their ...
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| level 4 vault | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I am a level 4 coach and my girls are doing extremely well on everything except vault. All of their ...
A: I would suggest you get a few different judges opinions as to what it would take to increase your ...
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| connection values | 5/20/2007 |
Q: hope you are well. I have a question about connection values. My 7 year old daughter is starting ...
A: The skills do not go up in value when combined. However, the overall routine composition does go up ...
|
| Level 7 Beam | 5/16/2007 |
Q: My daughter is working on her level 7 beam routine. She is having a block on her back walkover and ...
A: For all intents and purposes, lets assume your daughter is a right legged gymnast. She steps onto ...
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| usaigc floor | 5/16/2007 |
Q: Are you familar with USAIGC rules? They require a forward acro/dance or dance/forward acro series ...
A: Yes, I am familiar with the USAIGC rules. My first thoughts would be keep it as clean and simple as ...
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| Level 7 Beam | 5/15/2007 |
Q: My daughter is working on her level 7 beam routine. She is having a block on her back walkover and ...
A: My first thought would be a handstand to the round off. However if her cartwheel needs work, her ...
|
| Level 9 | 5/7/2007 |
Q: What tricks win at level 9 for a fourteen year old? She's 5'2 and 100 pounds, definitely a power ...
A: She needs to have both C dance and tumbling skills on floor and beam. She needs front and back ...
|
| connecting flight series on beam for level 8 | 5/4/2007 |
Q: I'm working on my flight series for beam. I'm doing a back walkover-back handspring. One of my ...
A: I'm not sure at all what you mean when you wrote "One of my coaches said it's critical to watch the ...
|
| etc... | 2/22/2007 |
Q: i am a level 7 gymnast, and just got my floor routine. I basically never stop moving, but am having ...
A: Repetition of the routine will help. You need to be talking to your coaches about this. It is ...
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| judging level 5 bars | 2/19/2007 |
Q: My daughter is a level 5 gymnast and is on her second season competing. She has yet to get over a ...
A: Judges look for form, bent arms, loose legs, body position, as well as the degree of amplitude on ...
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| judges rules | 2/19/2007 |
Q: I hope you can answer a question for me again. I (over the weekend) took my daughter to a meet and ...
A: Sorry you had a bad experience. The time frame and manner of inquiry matter. You don't say when ...
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| Level skill requirements | 2/16/2007 |
Q: Where can I find a detailed list of skill requirements for each level? I have a daughter level 4, ...
A: There is a mobility score that can be found in the Rules & Policies. However many gyms have there ...
|
| beam | 2/12/2007 |
Q: You really helped me on the last question I had about the code of points and was hoping to get one ...
A: Yeah, I found it!!! This was in the minutes of the Technical Committee Meeting May 1, 2006 ...
|
| level 4 vault | 2/12/2007 |
Q: Do you have any pointers about getting the pike out of a gymnast's handstand-flatback vault? Her ...
A: If you have a loose foam pit available, one suggestion would be to do front layouts into the pit. ...
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| coaching | 2/10/2007 |
Q: My team 4 girls have been at our new gym for a year and this is our first year of competition. They ...
A: Sometimes bringing in an outside judge works "magic". Especially if you could get one that has just ...
|
| could you help me with something | 2/9/2007 |
Q: i have to do a paper on gymnastics for class.what would you say the average height for this sport ...
A: I tried to send you a quick note and I think it was deleted. Sorry if this is a duplicate. This is ...
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| Teaching routines to young children | 2/7/2007 |
Q: I've been coaching gymnastics for two or three years (levels 4-7), and have had fairly good success ...
A: I just rely on constant repetition. Usually many reps of small sections. Then combine the small ...
|
| Dive Cartwheel on Beam | 2/7/2007 |
Q: Pam, My daughter is a Level 7 and does a dive cartwheel for her flight element on beam. Can you ...
A: Very hard question to answer in words...They are looking for "flight". Her body has to be in the ...
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| High Rebounds | 1/29/2007 |
Q: Good Morning, My daughter is a level 4 gymnast and our gym does not compete their level 4's. They ...
A: This is a wonderful thing!!! And the fact that she is a performer, all the better!! You don't ...
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| handspring front tuck vault | 1/29/2007 |
Q: My 14 year old daughter was asked to leave the gym by her high school coach because she did not want ...
A: I understand and appreciate your concern. I have a few questions. Is your daughter still going to ...
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| bonus value of a beam combination | 1/14/2007 |
Q: I'm a level 10 gymnast from Wisconsin, and I was wondering if you could tell me would the bonus ...
A: Sorry for the delay, I was judging all weekend! Anyway... switch leap + back tuck + straddle jump ...
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| coaching responsibilities | 1/13/2007 |
Q: I have two daughters in gym one is level 7 and one level 9. I travel about 90 minutes to gym 5 days ...
A: I'm not really sure what you are asking though I can understand your frustration. It's tough when ...
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| Coaches Guide written by Pam Rafe-Borges | 1/10/2007 |
Q: How can I get the coaches guide you put together? I am a 2nd year high school gymnastics coach in ...
A: Sorry to say, the interest in my area waned and I never pursued the national market. So the guide ...
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| Front hip circle and kips | 1/10/2007 |
Q: My daughter is going to be a level 4 in the 2007 season she has her front hip circle but her arms ...
A: This is really a question for her coach. I can only make suggestions, it is up to the coach to ...
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| release move | 1/9/2007 |
Q: I apologize for not knowing the name of this skill, but I need help. One of our students is going ...
A: It has several names, toe shoot, Chinese sit-up, hiccup. It is the same motion as a Shushonova on ...
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| technique judging | 1/8/2007 |
Q: My daughter is new to competitive gymnastics this year; she is in Level 4. As a parent watching at ...
A: There is no guide that I am aware of. Your coach should be able to answer these questions for you. ...
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| Gymnastics level 7 | 1/6/2007 |
Q: Hey Pam, I have been coaching levels 4 and 5 for about 3 years. I have 2 girls that are level 6 and ...
A: A L7 gymnast must perform vaults from Group 1 that have no more than a 360* turn in one flight and ...
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| Floor Routine | 1/5/2007 |
Q: I'm doing club gymnastics at college and I need someone to choreograph a floor routine for me. I ...
A: I would suggest calling gyms that are close to you and asking for recommendations. If you get a ...
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| gymnastics level 4 GIJO | 1/4/2007 |
Q: Is it always difficult to talk to the coaches? I try to talk and I get pegged as a "Pushy Mom", and ...
A: How do you know you are pegged the "pushy" mom? Why would wanting to understand the criteria ...
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| gymnastics level 4 GIJO | 1/4/2007 |
Q: I am completely new to all of this. So I may have several questions without realizing it. How does ...
A: I am not familiar with GIJO. But as far as a coach feeling a child is ready to compete, that varies ...
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| Form in gymnastics | 12/16/2006 |
Q: Just wondering how important is form in gymnastics? Is good form purely for asthetic pleasure? Some ...
A: Form is everything if you ask me. I would rather see a gymnast do a less difficult skill perfectly ...
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| beam | 12/16/2006 |
Q: could you please give me the level 5 beam routine or at least tell me where to get it? I want it so ...
A: The best thing you could do is ask the coach at your gym if you could get a copy. There is too much ...
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| Shaking and levels | 12/13/2006 |
Q: I had a couple of questions. I am 13 years old and have been in gymnastics for only a year, and have ...
A: Moving to level 6 in one year is a very quick progression. Without knowing you, it's very hard to ...
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| flexibility | 12/12/2006 |
Q: My daughter is 7 years old. She has just moved to level 5 this month. Flexibility has always been ...
A: I'm sure she will be able to get the flexibility she needs. I have a Level 8 gymnast now, who ...
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| Mental blocks | 12/11/2006 |
Q: my daughter is 11 and a level 6 - she is stuck at 6 bc of her mental blocks with bakc tumbling. she ...
A: I am attaching a good article on backwards fear from this past summer in Technique Magazine. ...
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| ? | 12/6/2006 |
Q: I have a few questions. Is it easier to learn a back hip circle or a front hip circle? Where can i ...
A: A back hip circle is easier. This is a link to the USAG website for the music. ...
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| front hip circle and kip | 12/5/2006 |
Q: The thing that i am scared of is hitting my feet or accidently straddling the beam when i come down ...
A: I'm giggling here a bit. You were talking about L4 bars when you asked me about the dismount. I ...
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| new team gymnast | 12/5/2006 |
Q: I have a five year old daughter who just made level 3 team. She has been in gymnastics for 3 years. ...
A: My feeling on this one is, she's 5 yrs old. Let her know you love her no matter when she gets the ...
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| Not competing all events | 12/4/2006 |
Q: Sorry, I am inquiring about Level 4-6.o--- Are there any benefits to having gymnasts not compete in ...
A: I would ask the coach point blank, "why are you making these choices about my child?" This is the ...
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| I can't find one.... | 12/3/2006 |
Q: I'm almost thirteen and love gymnastics, but I can't find a gym in my area. Moneys not a ...
A: Here is a link to the Florida Gymnastics Club Directory. ...
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| Not competing all events | 12/3/2006 |
Q: Are there any benefits to having gymnasts not compete in all 4 events? Does this effect the over ...
A: You haven't mention what type of gymnastics, USAG? Highschool? JOGA? If it is a "team" ...
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| front hip circle and kip | 12/3/2006 |
Q: everytim attempt my kip i get up pretty high and then fall down anlso in my front hip circle I can ...
A: A front hip circle is like a kip in the sense that it's about timing, and it is one of those things ...
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| Gymnastics | 12/1/2006 |
Q: How can Gymnastics help you in Life? How old do you have to be to join? What are the most common ...
A: Gymnastics helps you in many ways. First it teaches you to set goals and that you can acheive ...
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| GYM ELIMINATING LEVEL 6? | 11/30/2006 |
Q: MY DAUGHTER HAS JUST FINISHED HER LEVEL 5 SEASON AND FINISHED WITH A TOP SCORE OF 35.4. (WE GO TO ...
A: I'm reading this as not really an "expertise" question but more of what is my opinion. First and ...
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| the one and only KIP!!!! | 11/28/2006 |
Q: My daughter is having a very hard time with the kip...at this point she is the only one in her team ...
A: (not too many of us out there!) The dreaded kip...Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet. I don't ...
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| Concern in the gym | 11/22/2006 |
Q: My daughter is currently on a developmental team at a well known national training center. There are ...
A: I would suggest you do speak to whomever is in charge. I am sure they can explain their decisions. ...
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| leg position/back handspring | 11/20/2006 |
Q: My daughter is a level 4 gymnast. She can do her round-off backhandspring but is still having ...
A: A simple drill she can do safely at home or in the gym... In a bridge, jump both feet off the ground ...
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| girl 7 beginner | 11/20/2006 |
Q: My daughter is 7.5 and weighs 38 lbs, body well-proportioned. She has been going to gymnastics ...
A: As in any sport or activity you have your child participate in, you need to be comfortable with ...
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| high school gymnastics-illinois | 11/18/2006 |
Q: Yes they do use the NFHS rules....Thanks so much for any help you can give me.Hi I am on my junior ...
A: A basic floor routine for your estimated level would be A high superior jump or leap before your ...
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| Lev 8 vault | 11/17/2006 |
Q: Are gymnasts allowed to do a front handspring - front tuck vault for Level 8? Is this a Yamashita?
A: No, a front handspring - front tuck is not allowed at level 8. It is not a Yamishita ("Yami") A ...
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| Level 7 Beam Judging question | 11/14/2006 |
Q: Pam, Thank you for your information regarding the Level 7 Beam connection skills. I have a ...
A: If she wants the score, then do the cartwheel. If she wants to be ready for the higher level ...
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| Level 5 womens gymnastics | 11/14/2006 |
Q: My question is how is level 5 judged during competition. A friend told me that there are 7 different ...
A: There are not "7 different levels in judging level 5". I do not know what she is talking about. ...
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| dive rolls | 11/13/2006 |
Q: 1. Why is it more difficult to complete a dive roll with straight legs? 2. What effect does a ...
A: I don't agree with the statement made in your first question. I do not believe it is more difficult ...
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| level dilema | 11/13/2006 |
Q: Hey, I was just wondering, does USAG have a certain all around score requirement to compete at the ...
A: This is a link to the rules and policies page. Scroll down to part 2- ...
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| Mounts for beam | 11/10/2006 |
Q: I was reading one of your previous answers and you mentioned a straddle jump mount for beam. That ...
A: The mount is what is says, a straddle jump. A run-approach, powerful jump to straddle in flight, ...
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| BB mount which includes a B skill | 11/9/2006 |
Q: Pam - Currently my daughter (level 8) is doing a straight jump with a half turn as a mount onto the ...
A: I had a gymnast years ago that was a great jumper. We had her try for fun a straddle jump, WOW, it ...
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| 1/4 turn on beam | 10/26/2006 |
Q: Ever since she tried it for thr first time and hurt herself she will not do it. What are somethings ...
A: In the case of fear, it is always patience that wins. Backtracking, repetition, and patience. No ...
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| ankle | 10/23/2006 |
Q: I have a couple of questions. First off, I am 12 going on 13 and in level 4 training 5. (ive never ...
A: Before any discussion of what could happen down the road occurs...You have to get a second opinion ...
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| usag level 6 | 10/22/2006 |
Q: my gymnast is competing this week end and will not do her fly away it is her first level 6 ...
A: The deduction is double the value of the skill. In this situation the skill is worth .8. The ...
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| beam deduction question | 10/18/2006 |
Q: My daughter has been dealing with a backwards mental block since she had a bad fall about a year ...
A: Your coach is correct. It is a minimal deduction. On floor the deduction is "overuse of ...
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| School paper | 10/17/2006 |
Q: I was in gymnastics when I was younger and have always been intrested in the sport. And now I am ...
A: I would like to help you. Unfortunately that is alot of time-consuming work. If you browse "past ...
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| Judges | 10/11/2006 |
Q: Are judges allowed to officiate meets when they have athletes (that they coach) entered into that ...
A: Yes they are. However, they are suppose to be the acting official, not the head official. It is ...
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| standing backhand spring | 10/4/2006 |
Q: I want to learn how to do a standing backhand spring however i never done one in my life and this is ...
A: A back handspring is an advanced skill that requires time to learn. What is your background as ...
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| level 7 beam | 10/2/2006 |
Q: I asked you a question today about whether or not a gymnast was required to do a handstand or ...
A: I guess I was confused by your question... "My daughter just had her Level 7 beam routing ...
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| Rollinsjsr85@aol.com | 9/29/2006 |
Q: We are new to level 4 and I am just not getting the scoring process! I had thought that you start ...
A: I'm wondering where you "heard" about the scoring. If it wasn't from the coach, don't give it much ...
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| B skills on BB | 9/28/2006 |
Q: My daughter will be competing level 8 this year, and the beam has always been her most difficult ...
A: The back handspring, the turn, the leap, and the tuck 1/2 are all B's. She is not required to have ...
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| level 8 beam | 9/26/2006 |
Q: My question is the Level 8 flight requirement on beam. Will judges score a cartwheel - roundoff the ...
A: That is a subjective decision by each judge. There is no guideline specific to that. Some feel it ...
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| Floor bonus | 9/24/2006 |
Q: Pam, On floor in level 9 can you do a wolf 1/1 off of 1 leg connected to a wolf 1/1 off of 2 legs ...
A: That is an awesome question. On pag. 228 of the CoP...B-2-c. If leaps/jumps have a different ...
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| level 7 beam | 9/21/2006 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me all the requirements for the 2006-2007 level 7 beam routine and ...
A: You can check the archives and see if questions have been answered before. (I only recently learned ...
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| Level questions | 9/21/2006 |
Q: I have another question. Most of these questions im almost positive about, but I always like to know ...
A: You are correct that the higher level skills replace the lower skills. In the Code, pgs. 142 & 143 ...
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| Clear hip to handstand | 9/20/2006 |
Q: Daughter is working on her clear hip to handstand, but is at this time without a coach for her level ...
A: I tell gymnasts to try to get their knuckles to the top of the bar as fast as possible. It sounds ...
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| glide kip | 9/19/2006 |
Q: I was reading your response to another post (9/18) about getting the kip correctly. I've been to a ...
A: No, unfortunately, the bar is not too low. They have a coach that is allowing it. On top of the .3 ...
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| MENTAL BLOCKS | 9/19/2006 |
Q: Do you have any advise on mental blocks? I'm a gym owner/coach & I have a lot of girls on my team ...
A: I answered a similar question a few weeks ago. I'm going to paste in part of that answer. [[ I am ...
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| level 7 floor routine | 9/19/2006 |
Q: We recently went to a USAG meet for Level 7 gymnasts. On the floor, a girl only did a front ...
A: Level 7 is an interesting level. It use to be considered a Compulsory level where leaving out a ...
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| Front hip circle and mill circle | 9/18/2006 |
Q: Even though my daughter doesn't have her front hip circle and mill circle, she just moved to Level ...
A: Strength training is not my expertise. I do not know of any "home" based exercises that can ...
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| glide kip | 9/18/2006 |
Q: My dd is having a tough time with her glide kip. The good news is that the coaches say her ...
A: At the stage she's at, I really don't have any "tips" for getting to the top. It is usually just ...
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| Back Handspring on Beam | 9/11/2006 |
Q: I have a wonderful back handspring step out on the floor, but when I practice my back handspring on ...
A: I was never a fan of the back handspring on beam either!!! I would suggest doing back handsprings ...
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| routine requirements levels 4 and up? | 9/11/2006 |
Q: I am starting to coach again after a 10 year break. The levels, scoring, and apparatus has changed. ...
A: To list all the requirements of all the levels is a great task. I suggest you get the Code of ...
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| high school | 9/10/2006 |
Q: I read where high school coaches are in violation of high school rules if they coach in other places ...
A: This is not my area of expertise. This is not covered in the Rules book. The Athletic Director at ...
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| My Level | 9/10/2006 |
Q: I am 14 years old and have participated in gymnastics for 8 years, 4 years at a competitive gym, ...
A: Your letter was descriptive, not long. It helped me "see" what you can do. It sounds like you are ...
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| back handsprings | 9/9/2006 |
Q: I am in cheerleading. I can do a cartweel, roundoff, handstand, back arabien walkover, front walk ...
A: Try working on a back limber. It is a slow version of the back handspring. I've found a few kids ...
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| Pulling in backtuck | 9/9/2006 |
Q: My daughter is having problems pulling in her back tuck. She has a great set, but won't pull all ...
A: The only drill I can think of that might help is; Laying on the floor on her back, arms over her ...
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| Back walkover on beam | 8/31/2006 |
Q: I'm starting to learn a back walkover on beam, but I'm having trouble getting my hands close ...
A: Yes, it sounds like a flexibility issue. Can you do a back walkover with your hands interlocked? ...
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| Am i too old? | 8/30/2006 |
Q: I have been doing gymnastics for 2 and 1/2 years. My 14th birthday was a few days ago, and I am on ...
A: Realistically it is not likely, with Level 6 skills, at this point to think towards a scholarship. ...
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| technique | 8/29/2006 |
Q: Hey Pam: How are you? thanks for your last email! two emails!:) I have a little question about the ...
A: Reaching out more will help avoid the shoulder angle, thus eliminating a directional error. A long ...
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| Music for floor | 8/27/2006 |
Q: My daughter is looking for new floor music and I have heard one at meets but do not know the name. ...
A: I know I answered this already but it is in my list of pending questions. I don't know what ...
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| technique | 8/26/2006 |
Q: How are you? I have been tumbling for about 6 months now and I just videotaped myself. Could you ...
A: ! I was looking over my answered questions and I saw I missed the link to the back handspring! ...
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| Level 9 and 10 bonus | 8/24/2006 |
Q: How else can you get bonus on bars in level 9 besides skills like doing a pirouette on the high bar ...
A: Level 9 bars has 2 different criteria for bonus. C + C at least one without turn or flight = .1 C ...
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| gymnastics skill | 8/24/2006 |
Q: how to do a front ariel
A: A front aerial although easier if your flexible, does not require a lot of flexibility. It requires ...
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| Favortism | 8/22/2006 |
Q: My daughter has a 21yr old coach. This coach shows favortism to half the team, the other half gets ...
A: If I worked at the same gym I would first discuss it with the owner and get his/her feedback on the ...
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| JOGA floor routine | 8/21/2006 |
Q: Do you know where i can find a list of skills that are required in JOGA level C floor, bars and beam ...
A: As far as I know, JOGA is unique to NJ so I am assuming this is where you are from. Their website ...
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| Rolling | 8/21/2006 |
Q: I've head that in gymnastics there are many ways of rolling. Could you please tell me the names of a ...
A: If you tell me why you would like this information I can gear my answer more appropriately. There ...
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| High School Coaching | 8/16/2006 |
Q: I have been involved in the sport of gymnastics as an athlete for 14 years & as a coach for 5. I ...
A: I would contact the Athletic Director at the school and ask him whether they use USAG, modified ...
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| High School Gymnastics | 8/11/2006 |
Q: I'm just starting high school gymnastics, and I'm completely lost on what to do with my routines! ...
A: I look forward to being able to help you but I need some more information first. You need to tell ...
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| round off technique! | 8/10/2006 |
Q: How are you? This is Yan from China. I have been bothering you quite much these days. Sorry about ...
A: I'm great, thanks for asking. You are correct, your body position on the landing of a skill does ...
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| , | 8/3/2006 |
Q: Is there any streches for your lower back? Do you have any tips for an airel i have enough height ...
A: My favorite low back stretch is simply hugging my bent knees while standing, pushing my back up(like ...
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| Skill Sheets | 8/3/2006 |
Q: I had searched the USAG website and was trying to find skill sheets for each level. I just went to ...
A: I would strongly suggest contacting your gym for the sheets you want. It keeps an open line of ...
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| whats my level? | 8/1/2006 |
Q: i do not know my level in gymnastics is and i need to. one of the hardest things i can do is front ...
A: That is a tough question to answer. Levels can be relative to the program you are in. At your ...
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| I need your answer | 7/28/2006 |
Q: I wanna start training gymnastics ((Acrobatic)) but i'm 18 years old :S is it ok to start training ...
A: Good Morning, You can train flexibility at any age. How your body responds to the traing is very ...
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| USAG Prep Op | 7/28/2006 |
Q: Our gym is changing their prep op program to a USAG prep op program. They already have a USAG ...
A: This is not my area of expertise. I would suggest however, that you contact your state chairman. ...
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| aesthetics | 7/27/2006 |
Q: I am a amateur tumbler and Now I can do those simple ones like: front and back handsprings, tucks... ...
A: Good morning, Yes, those are the right things to do. If you think about jumping (any jump), your ...
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| Splits | 7/27/2006 |
Q: First off id like to explain my gym as a very hardworking one. We train 5 hours a day 4 days a week. ...
A: Before I make any drill suggestions, I need you to be more specific. You wrote your split is ...
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| help with some drills | 7/26/2006 |
Q: I am competing in level 7 this year in Australia(Western Australia) and i was wondering if you knew ...
A: This skill is the bars version of a Shushunova on floor (straddle jump to prone). I only know 1 ...
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| how to help my prolbems | 7/25/2006 |
Q: i need so much help doing a front flip i now how to do a brige but i am just to scared to run.also ...
A: I assume you mean a front handspring not a front "flip". A "flip" is done with no hands. It sounds ...
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| Cartwheel | 7/25/2006 |
Q: How would you teach toddlers from 2-5 how to do a cartwheel?
A: My favorite method is using a mat and having the child jump their feet from one side over the top to ...
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| Punch fronts | 6/30/2006 |
Q: Sorry, I should have said earlier that she is stepping out into a round-off. She slams her first ...
A: She might be trying to open with both legs. She just wants to open one leg, keeping the other leg ...
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| Moving a child back a level | 6/29/2006 |
Q: my daughter is 8 and started level 5 (USAG) this June. I'm not sure she belongs there though. She ...
A: I'm a big believer in getting the skills strong before moving on. However, it's hard to second ...
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| Flexibility/Dance Routines/Leaps | 6/28/2006 |
Q: I am a dance teacher looking to improve the flexibility and leaps of my sweet, but lazy dancers. I ...
A: Are you talking about dance for gymnastics or dance for dancers? Also, what level and ages are you ...
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| Punch fronts | 6/28/2006 |
Q: I coach high school gymnastics and I have a girl working on punch fronts. She lands hard and ...
A: When you say she lands hard and stutter steps, I assume she is she over-rotating? If this is the ...
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| coach to gymnast ratios | 6/26/2006 |
Q: We are trying to determine national and reasonable averages for the coach to gymnast ratio. Is ...
A: Brodfuehrer, I received the feedback you posted and I must say I am quite saddened in your ...
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| chin ups | 6/24/2006 |
Q: My forearms get so tired and weak that I feel like I'm am going to fall - like I can't hold on ...
A: Chin-ups can be tough for a lot of people. With a skill like this it really is all about ...
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| just gymnastics | 6/23/2006 |
Q: Im uni I'm training level 6 this summer, and i really need to know how i can connect my free hip to ...
A: I'm not sure where you are having the problem with the connection. Are you able to glide out? Do ...
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| Level 7 | 6/22/2006 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the requriments for bars, beamm, floor and vault for level 7? ...
A: Someone recently asked me the same question. I'm pasteing that answer in. You can purchase the ...
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| I want to perform!!!!! | 6/21/2006 |
Q: oh sorry, I was rushing. The gym I am practicing at has levels like 1,2,3,4, you know and they ...
A: It sounds like you want to do is High School gymnastics. I'm not sure how the rules vary from state ...
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| I want to perform!!!!! | 6/21/2006 |
Q: My name is Tania and I have been in gymnastics for about a year now and 4-5 years when I was ...
A: Unfortunately, in the middle of your letter, you lost me. Can you please clarify this section of ...
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| a good roundoff | 6/8/2006 |
Q: Yeah, Pam. Thanks. slow picture: I run and then I put my two hands down one by one in a line like I ...
A: First you want to keep your hands going down in a straight line. It has to do with physics. Hand ...
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| floor routine | 6/7/2006 |
Q: I was hoping to find someone to choreograh a floor routine for my level 10 gymnast. I am able to ...
A: Sorry 'bout that! As far as choreography... I would ask some of the judges in you state whom they ...
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| Competition and Levels | 5/31/2006 |
Q: 1) Can you tell me the process of a competition starting from getting there part. 2) Would you mind ...
A: I assume you are a parent. Most of these questions should be directed to a coach. There is no ...
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| Backwalkovers on beam!!!! | 5/14/2006 |
Q: I am a level 6 and I just got my backwalkover back 2 days ago. Its not that I am scared, it's just ...
A: Without knowing you...One comment...Watch the beam. As you are stepping down...Look...see where you ...
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| floor routine - level 7 | 5/9/2006 |
Q: My daughter, age 11, will be in level 7 this year. She has strong ballet skills and is a sparkly ...
A: Without knowing your daughter I can't give you a strong answer. However I can ask some questions. ...
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| Can she get too old? | 5/3/2006 |
Q: My 5 year-old daughter is on pre-team. She can do all apparatus but cries during stretching which ...
A: It sounds like you know the answer. Is your daughter talented? Yes. Just because your are good ...
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| Women's Gymnastics Skill Levels | 5/1/2006 |
Q: Rafe-Borges: I am interested in knowing the schedule for women's gymnastics skills. In other words, ...
A: The information you are looking for is found in the "Code of Points". This is the link to the USA ...
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| clear hip | 4/28/2006 |
Q: ..my hands just wont shift enough so i end up going straight down for my kip, hitting my feet on the ...
A: When you are circling, do you think about your palms moving or your fingers moving? Usually ...
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| increasing speed/power on vault | 4/19/2006 |
Q: My daughter is competing at level 4. She is consistently scoring 9.1 - 9.6 in all events except ...
A: It's hard to give any direct feedback without actually seeing your daughter's run, however... One of ...
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| is it too late for me?? | 3/30/2006 |
Q: im almost 16 years old. i am 5'7. i can do a backhandspring but my mom says its too last for me to ...
A: It's never too late to have fun. There are recreational team programs in a lot of states. You ...
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| flips | 3/29/2006 |
Q: what is the best way to learn how to do a front flip and a back flip. Can you tell me how to do ...
A: These are advanced skills and is something you need to be taught by a professional. This is not ...
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| selection for floor routine | 3/28/2006 |
Q: my daughter is in level 5 now, but will skip to level 7 in the next few weeks. I need help on what ...
A: Usually the gym supplies the samples or can guide you to some online website. I don't know any ...
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| Levels | 3/28/2006 |
Q: I ask more for my reference than anything. For example when she was desperately trying to learn her ...
A: If you want to pursue her gymnastics, now is the age to get her to a USAG club that does compulsory ...
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| Levels | 3/23/2006 |
Q: My daughter is 6 and has participated in gymnastics since she was 2. Can you define what the ...
A: I have a question for you. Is your daughter at a gymnastics school or a dance/acrobatics studio? ...
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| Level 7 Balance Beam | 3/19/2006 |
Q: Can a back extension be combined with another skill to meet the required acro series in Level 7? If ...
A: Yes, Part of the acro requirement is a series with a minimum of 2 “A” or “B” elements with or ...
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| Presentation of Floor routine | 3/16/2006 |
Q: My daughter is 15 years old and a 2nd year level 9 gymnast. Showing off her floor routine has always ...
A: Right now I have a Level 10 (also 15) I've been working with for 3 years. Absolutely beautiful ...
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| A and B skills, timing | 3/14/2006 |
Q: My daughter is (hopefully) going to be looking ahead to level 7 in the fall. With that in mind, we ...
A: Unless you're making your own floor music, they come regulation (1:30 max) Beam max time is 1:20, ...
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| tips for success-optional routines | 3/4/2006 |
Q: Do you have any general advise or tips for gymnasts performing floor routines in the optional ...
A: Besides the obvious (form), presentation is often ignored. Many gymnasts are just too self concious ...
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| training for college gymnastics? | 2/27/2006 |
Q: I have a 15 year old 10th grader who has been doing gymnastics for 10 years. She is currently a ...
A: That's a hard call without knowing your daughter or the gym she is in but, 20 hours is a little ...
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| deductions | 2/23/2006 |
Q: What would the deduction be for leaving out a required element on floor such as the full turn for ...
A: Ahhh, I love the simple questions!!! (lol) That is a straight .50 deduction for missing a ...
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| Gymnastics Compulsory Vault | 2/15/2006 |
Q: My daughter is a level 5 gymnast. She is struggling to learn a handspring vault. She is 10, 4 feet ...
A: Unfortunately that is a question that ,without talking to the coach or seeing the coaching ...
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| level 7 and 8 | 2/14/2006 |
Q: I think I sent an e-mail to you but it is possible that I just deleted somehow because it suddenly ...
A: My best suggestion is find a judge in your area (preferably someone who can do choreography). You ...
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| Front aerials | 2/7/2006 |
Q: I'm a level 7 gymnast and I am looking for some interesting stuff to put in my routines for next ...
A: I always liked being able to do a front aerial! And... It may be worth nothing on floor, but it is ...
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| gymnastics aerials | 2/2/2006 |
Q: I am trying to get advice on teaching gymnastics aerials. Is there any advice you have or a video ...
A: The gymnast legs need to move very quickly so practice standing cartwheels with the goal of whipping ...
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| cartwheel on beam | 1/27/2006 |
Q: my cartwheel on beam is very inconsistent, and i'm scared to do it on the high beam. how can i ...
A: Most of the time when gymnasts have trouble with this skill it comes from not lifting your first leg ...
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| Level 7 beam skills | 1/7/2006 |
Q: I am a level 7 gymnast in Texas. I am choreographing my own beam routine. I would like to know a ...
A: You are required to have a flight skill, Back handspring, roundoff, front handspring. All of which ...
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| Barani Dismount | 12/27/2005 |
Q: I'm a gymnast of about three years, but this is my first year in highschool gymnastics, i'm a ...
A: Without seeing you do it the best advice I can give you is to make sure you are doing a large lunge ...
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| Choreography | 12/18/2005 |
Q: My daughter is going to become a level 7 gymnast at the end of this years competition season. She ...
A: My first thought would be to call various gyms in your area and ask if they know of any ...
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| Gymnastics | 11/23/2005 |
Q: !! My daughter is on level 2 usag... i was wondering what the level 3 - 10 requirements arE? ...
A: That's a really elaborate answer so I'm going to try to cut it down to the nuts and bolts. L4 ...
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| Level 2 Floor | 10/25/2005 |
Q: I have a 6 year old girl whom I am trying to help with backbends, kickovers, and getting up from a ...
A: First let me say, as a former gymnast with short arms and the coach of a very high level gymnast ...
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| Level 2 Floor | 10/25/2005 |
Q: I have a 6 year old girl whom I am trying to help with backbends, kickovers, and getting up from a ...
A: Your question is a little vague so let's see if we can narrow it down a bit. Are you a coach or ...
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| Values in JO Code of Points | 10/18/2005 |
Q: I am the first level 7 at my gym, so my gym does not have the JO code of points and since it is ...
A: I'm just going to paste your list and go from that. Bars A skills BABY GIANT = A kip ...
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| tsuks and front fronts | 9/2/2005 |
Q: I'm wondering if you could explain the technical aspects of both tsuks and front fronts, especially ...
A: I included some links to various article that should help answer your questions. The answers you ...
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| Hand placement | 7/20/2005 |
Q: I am hoping you can help me on proper hand placement when performing handsprings and walkovers on ...
A: Although I haven't seen the full text of the new compulsories, the last cycle required the back ...
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| hollow position when casting | 6/3/2005 |
Q: Borges, I am 9 years old and I am level 7 working towards level 8. I don't have a hard time in any ...
A: The best help I can give you is start small!! Don't go for the big cast until you can do a small ...
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| optional routines | 5/15/2005 |
Q: Followup To Question -Followup To Question -What are the skills that must be included in level 7 ...
A: I did not say leap!! As I can tell (again the new code is not out yet) A split JUMP is a "b" so ...
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| optional routines | 5/15/2005 |
Q: Followup To Question -Followup To Question - What are the skills that must be included in level 7 ...
A: On beam- a roundoff is a "b" so you can take out one of the jumps. The outline I have on the ...
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| optional routines | 5/14/2005 |
Q: Followup To Question -What are the skills that must be included in level 7 optional routines? ...
A: The new rules for level 7 are not available until the middle of June. They are only giving us the ...
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| optional routines | 5/14/2005 |
Q: Followup To Question - What are the skills that must be included in level 7 optional routines? ...
A: Okay... Vault- do a handspring On Bars- a 3,6,7 circling skill - most people use a clear hip ...
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| hand placements on beam | 5/6/2005 |
Q: is it required for a certain hand placement when doing a backwalker-over or bhs on the beam? Do you ...
A: Good Morning, In the compulsory level there is a definite hand placement requirement for the back ...
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| Split leaps | 5/4/2005 |
Q: I coach 13 level 4s ages 6-10. They are awful at split leaps, and don't seem to understand the ...
A: The level 4 leap requires only a 90* (degree) opening. Think like the corner of a box. The ...
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| Still Rings | 5/1/2005 |
Q: i'm just wondering if you know the technique for swinging on the rings. I am doing a presentation ...
A: I'm sorry, but I am not well versed on men's gymnastics. Although I personally do not know him, I ...
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| Olympic Training | 4/14/2005 |
Q: I have a daughter who just turned 9- only been doing gymnastics for a year and half now- she is ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean by "training as a professional". I am going to assume you want the ...
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| Gymnastics | 3/30/2005 |
Q: This may be a difficult question to answer, I hope you understand my question(s). I am 12 years old ...
A: About changing levels; Many to most gyms will not move a gymnast up to the next level if they do ...
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| Optional Floor Music | 3/12/2005 |
Q: Our daughter is an 9-year-old optional gymnast who will be competing as a level 8 or 9 next year. My ...
A: This is cool. I'd love to have a parent involved like this! Anyway, A floor routine lasts ...
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| gymnastics | 1/16/2005 |
Q: I am doing a project for school and was would be grateful for any information you could send me. I ...
A: I'd love to help. I'm sure you know there are 4 events. There are several competitive levels. ...
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| judging gymnastics | 1/4/2005 |
Q: I'm a retired gymnast and I'm interested in judging gymnastics, especially high school gymnastics. ...
A: Judging High School gymastics depends on what state your in as to how they run it. If your state ...
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| fear | 12/6/2004 |
Q: here is the deal... i have been having a BIG issue with fear lately and i have never ever had an ...
A: Ahh, the Fear Monster. It seems like you are finally realizing that mistakes can have consequences. ...
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| qualifying scores | 12/3/2004 |
Q: what is the min. score you can have to qualify for state meet in level 4 division
A: I'm sorry but this is not an area where I can help. It is my understanding that this score is open ...
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| NFHS coaches guide | 11/23/2004 |
Q: I am a coach for a high school gymnastics team in Minnesota, and I was wondering where I could find ...
A: I wasn't getting a strong enough response for the effort it takes to keep it updated. I'll gladly ...
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| High School Optional Routines | 11/17/2004 |
Q: ------------------------- Followup to original question Thanks for your reply. Somehow I missed it ...
A: I just forgot to say good bye!!! so.... Again, let me know what else you might need! I don't ...
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| Beam choreography | 11/11/2004 |
Q: I am trying to make up a level 7 beam routine. I was wondering if you can help me out with some ...
A: Level 7 is all about clean and perfect. The best series is a back walkover-back walkover (because ...
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| High School Optional Routines | 11/11/2004 |
Q: I coach high school gymnastics in San Diego but have never had an optional gymnast before. This year ...
A: Absolutely I can help you but I need a bit more information. What rules do you use for competition? ...
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| Gymnastics | 10/7/2004 |
Q: I am 12 and a leve1 11 gymnast for 3 years now. My coaches never have any scouts and I am so bored ...
A: You've got to help me out a little bit here... USA-Gymnastics JO (junior olympic) program goes from ...
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| straddle L press handstand | 10/5/2004 |
Q: How do you perform a straddle L press handstand? My daughter has attempted it and can get up into a ...
A: Good morning, As you have stated it is a strength move. It can't just happen. It has to be ...
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| J O skill values | 10/1/2004 |
Q: Is there anywhere I can get a summary listing of Junior Olympic skill values for Levels 7 -10 ...
A: there are shortcut sheets judges use but she would have to be able to read shorthand. One ...
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| High School Gymnastics | 8/25/2004 |
Q: Our gym is just beginning to offer our girls high school gymnastics. Where can we get books - code ...
A: I believe this is the information you are looking for. The NFHS rules deal with Mediums, Superiors, ...
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| hand stands | 8/24/2004 |
Q: I have been practicing yoga for about 4 years, but I can never seem to perform handstands. Every ...
A: Think of learning a handstand like a baby learning to stand. A baby tries to stand and falls down ...
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| back tuck | 8/19/2004 |
Q: I take begginer gymnastics and my coach was telling me about how to do back sommies (or back ...
A: Good question...A sommersault or sommie or salto is simply a flip. The "tuck" states what the body ...
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| Hi again | 8/16/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question - Hi Pam, Long time no talk, huh? How are things? i have just been getting ...
A: I thought I answered this question but it was still listed as pending (sorry!) >Khorkina=bhs (kick 1 ...
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| Hi again | 8/16/2004 |
Q: Long time no talk, huh? How are things? i have just been getting to the gym to practice, i have ...
A: I went skydiving specifically because I have a huge!!!! fear of ledges. My theory was if I could ...
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| Hi again | 8/16/2004 |
Q: Long time no talk, huh? How are things? i have just been getting to the gym to practice, i have ...
A: I'm good! I went skydiving 10 days ago! I was scared to death!!! Not of falling but of actually ...
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| back handspring | 8/15/2004 |
Q: Hey,i was just wondering if u could help me with my back handspring. I am learning it on tramp,& i ...
A: There is a big difference between doing a back handspring on tramp vs. on the floor. Fear is ...
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| High School Gymnastics | 7/21/2004 |
Q: I quit Level 6 for USAG a few years ago and now I would like to try High School gymnastics. Our ...
A: NFHS rules help level the field. If you were a level 6 gymnast you can do well with these rules. ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/13/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question -Followup To Question -Hi, I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. I'm ...
A: I would absolutely die in Michigan! I decided last week that within the next 10 years I'll be on ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/12/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question -Followup To Question - Hi, I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. ...
A: Hey there! The routine I think we have figured out is... >2ft hop on-split 1/2 = S+HS(BHS)= BBS ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/12/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question -Hi, I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. I'm not too experienced ...
A: Good Morning!!! It's rainy and miserable here, perfect computer weather!!! I'm going to go from ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/11/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question - Hi, I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. I'm not too experienced ...
A: Hey Mischa, Let's play with this a bit, since I can't see what you do I've got to trust your ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/10/2004 |
Q: I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. I'm not too experienced with gymnastics, but I have ...
A: First, I'm sure I can help, it's just a matter of figuring out which rules you use. From looking at ...
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| Is this worth a 10.? | 7/8/2004 |
Q: I'm a gymnast in my senior year of highschool. I'm not too experienced with gymnastics, but I have ...
A: Sorry I wasn't sooner answering but I am at a Gymnastics Conference in VA Beach Since Monday night. ...
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| high school and floor music | 6/11/2004 |
Q: I hope you can help me answer my question. I used to be in competitive club gymnastics (level 6) and ...
A: This is an easy question to answer if I have the correct information. Different states have ...
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| Gymnastic floor music | 5/26/2004 |
Q: My daughter is interested in the Austin Powers floor music. I have not found this on the f.m. sites ...
A: If you can't find the music with any of the top FX music distributors I would suggest cutting the ...
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| gymnastic arm placements | 5/16/2004 |
Q: what kind of deduction would be given for "wrong" arm placement in a full on the floor? one coach ...
A: There is no "wrong" arm placement deduction. The technique used for twisting depends on which ...
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| high school gymnastics | 11/23/2003 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the requirements for each event that would have a 10.0 start ...
A: I assume you are using the NFHS rules by mentioning Superior and High Superior. Those rules are not ...
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| A gymnast gone BAD! | 3/30/2003 |
Q: I'm a level 8 in Arizona. I have a problem... I'm so frustrated because this one girl is poisoning ...
A: As far as the gymnast with the bad attitude, have you talked to your coaches about the situation. ...
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