PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS FINALISTS AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNEVEN BARS 2019

Abstract

Experts in artistic gymnastics are constantly analyzing the outcomes of the gymnasts' performance at world and continental championships. However, the analyses cover only the assessment of the final scores of athletes and their ranks. There is a lack of research focused on the structure of routines and components of the scores obtained for the performance of combinations. The purpose of this study was to determine the content of competitive programs performed by the finalists of the World Championship Uneven Bars 2019 and to identify areas for the exercise development in this kind of all-around events on the eve of the Olympic Games. Methods and organization of the research: we carried out the analysis of video materials of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), the analysis of the competition rules for the current Olympic cycle, additional newsletters, and scientific instructional literature. We used an expert assessment method to identify the components of competitive combinations. Research results. The study determined quantitative indicators of the content of gymnast combinations on uneven bars (the number and difficulty groups of elements, including jumps and dismounts, modal and frequently performed elements, connection value bonus). We have revealed the trend for reduction of the total number of elements of competitive routines. It occurs due to reduction of the number of binders (“dilution”) elements, reduction of the number of elements of difficulty groups below 0.4 points, and increasing number of flight elements performed in a “cascade” way. We have revealed the trend for the use of elements of F (0.6 points) and G (0.7 points) difficulty groups in competitive combinations of the strongest gymnasts, which characterizes a significant increase in the coordination complexity of the programs and increases the requirements for the training of gymnasts. Conclusion. The research outcomes can provide the basis for predicting competitive programs on uneven bars at the upcoming Olympic Games, making amendments to the system of training gymnasts and the content of combinations to increase competitiveness at major international competitions, as well as making competition rules proposals for the next Olympic cycle.