Techniques Used by Elite Gymnasts in the 1992 Olympic Compulsory Dismount from the Horizontal Bar

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the mechanical factors that are crucial to a successful double salto backward tucked dismount from thehorizontal bar. The subjects were 35 American and 43 Japanese gymnasts competing in their respective 1990 national gymnastics championships. A 16-mm camera, placed with its optical axis parallel to the horizontal bar and operating at 100 Hz, was used to record the performances of the subjects. Significant correlations indicated that a large vertical velocity at bar release, which ensures great height and long time of flight, is important. Successful performance is also likely when efforts are made to (a) achieve the tightest tuck position during the salto backward near the peak of flight, (b) extend the body rapidly and fully early in rotation before the vertical body position is reached well above the bar, (c) maintain the extended body position during the remainder of the flight to display body style for virtuosity bonus points, and (d) simultaneously prepare for a controlled landing on the mat.