Female Gymnasts Research Articles

THE BALANCE ABILITY OF TOP-LEVEL FEMALE RHYTHMIC GYMNASTS: DOES IT PREDICT THEIR PERFORMANCE SCORES?

Rhythmic gymnastics (RG) is an extremely demanding sport that has a positive effect on the exerciser’s motor status. However, in order to be able to acquire RG contents, the existence of certain minimally developed motor skills, including the ability of postural control and body stabilisation during dynamic movements, is of vital importance. The main objective of this study is to assess the role, contribution and influence of balance ability on performance scores in RG. The sample consisted of 126 international-level female rhythmic gymnasts (RGs), divided into five age categories (15 seniors, 25 juniors, 26 advanced-level RGs, 38 intermediate-level RGs, and 22 beginners). Their baseline characteristics (age, body height and mass, body mass index) were established, along with their balance abilities (balance on toes (left/right leg) test, single leg (left/right) balance test – eyes closed, double pivot in passé test). The data was analysed (descriptive statistics, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, multivariate and univariate regression analysis) using SPSS 21.0. The results of the multivariate regression analysis indicate the existence of a statistically significant influence of the balance ability of advanced-level RGs, as well as the RGs comprising the rest of the sample, on their performance scores (p=0.01 and p=0.00, respectively), with statistically significant individual contributions of the balance on toes test – right leg (advanced-level RGs: p=0.01, total sample: p=0.02), and dynamic balance (total sample: p=0.00). The final conclusion is that balance ability is a significant predictive factor of RGs’ performance scores, with a variance explanation of 35% (advanced-level RGs), i.e. 24% (entire sample).

Muscle Strength and Joint Range of Motion of the Spine and Lower Extremities in Female Prepubertal Elite Rhythmic and Artistic Gymnasts.

The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the passive joint range of motion (PROM) and muscle strength in prepubertal rhythmic gymnasts (RGs), artistic gymnasts (AGs), and a control group (CG) of the same age. A total of 54 prepubertal girls were divided into three groups: 18 RGs (age 11.14 ± 0.7, height 142.6 ± 5.81, and body mass 31.2 ± 3.63); 18 AGs (age 11.27 ± 0.99, height 139.6 ± 5.85, and body mass 31.7 ± 3.21), and 18 school girls who are defined as CG (age 10.55 ± 0.42, height 145.33 ± 6.95, and body mass 42.1 ± 8.21) participated in the study. All athletes were elites and participated in national competitions. The CG participated only in their school physical education program. Isokinetic peak torques were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex II) at 60, 180, and 300°·sec-1. Body mass index was greater in the CG compared to RGs and AGs (p < 0.001). PROM in cervical extension in RG was significantly higher compared to the AG and CG (p < 0.001). The athlete groups, RG and AG, showed significantly greater PROM in knee flexion (p < 0.001), hip flexion (p < 0.001), and hip abduction (p < 0.05) compared to CG. PROM in hip flexion was different between the left and right leg in RGs. The relative muscle strength of the quadriceps in the RG and AG was significantly greater compared to CG (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01 respectively). Gymnastics training in prepubertal ages can improve neuromuscular function and increase the relative muscle strength. Therefore, it is essential to note that when evaluating children within the developmental ages, especially those involved in sports, the type of muscle strength to be assessed should be specified.

BODY COMPOSITION AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO SPORTS INJURIES IN YOUNG FEMALE ACROBATIC GYMNASTS

The risk of injury is associated with elite sport. There is evidence that body composition may affect injury risk. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence of injuries, and to determine the relationship of body composition with the incidence, typology and severity of injuries in female acrobatic gymnasts. The sample included 92 female acrobatic gymnasts aged between 9 and 20 years (13.66 ± 2.66 years), 33 tops (11.06 and 1.41 age) and 59 bases (15.11 and 2.00 age). Body measurements (fat percentage, muscle percentage and the sum of 6 skinfolds), and body mass index (BMI) and their categorization into underweight, normal weight and overweight, were measured. Data about injuries were collected through a self-completed questionnaire at the end of the season, where it was recorded whether they had suffered injuries, the type of injury (joint, ligament, tendon or bone) and its severity (minor, moderate or severe). A descriptive, comparative and relational analysis of the studied variables and between groups was carried out. The results obtained in this study indicate a higher percentage of uninjured gymnasts, but also a high percentage of injured gymnasts, with ligament injuries being the most frequent. As for the relationship with body composition and BMI, no significant relationships were observed in the incidence, typology or severity of injuries suffered by these athletes. It only seems to affect tendon injuries in the bases, with the injured gymnasts having a higher BMI, fat percentage and the sum of six skinfolds.

COMPARISON OF THE TRADITIONAL TRAINING METHOD TO TEACH HANDSTAND AND TRAINING THROUGH A RESEARCHER-MADE DEVICE AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE HANDSTAND DURATION, PAIN AND QUALITY OF PERFORMANCE IN 8-10-YEAR-OLD BEGINNER GYMNAST GIRLS

This research was conducted with the aim of comparing traditional handstand training and handstand training using a researcher-made device among beginner gymnast girls aged 8 to 10 years. To achieve this, 30 qualified female gymnasts were purposefully and conveniently selected and randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving educational assistance with the researcher-made device (n=15) and the other using the traditional method (n=15). Over a span of eight weeks, handstand movements were taught, with one group following traditional methods and the other utilizing the researcher-made device. Upon completion of the training period, various measurements were taken, including the duration of balance maintenance, balance quality as judged by experts, the range of motion in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and ankle joints, and the assessment of pain in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and lower back areas. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, MANOVA, and the Mann-Whitney test, with a significance level set at P≥ 0.05, and the analysis was conducted using SPSS 22 software. The results demonstrated that the use of the researcher-made balance training device led to a significant improvement in balance quality from the perspective of judges, as well as a notable reduction in pain in the shoulder, back, and wrist areas compared to the traditional training method. Additionally, there were no significant differences between the traditional method and the use of the device when considering factors such as balance performance quality as measured by deviation from the vertical line in various body joints, the duration of balance maintenance, the range of motion in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, ankle, and pain in the elbow and knee.

Wrist Guards/Supports in Gymnastics: Are They Helping or Hurting You?

Background: The prevalence of wrist pain among gymnasts ranges from 46% to 79%. To alleviate wrist pain, gymnasts wear wrist guards/supports (WG/S). Purpose: To investigate the effect of WG/S on the wrist joint through joint moment, angles, total joint range of motion (ROM) arc, and ground-reaction force (GRF). Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to investigate 23 female gymnasts (mean ± SD: age, 12.3 ± 1.5 years; height, 143.4 ± 7.6 cm; mass, 37.7 ± 6.6 kg; body mass index, 18.6 ± 2.9) who performed back handsprings (analyzed by first half [phase 1] and second half [phase 2]) with the following 3 conditions: no WG/S, Skids/Ultimate Wrist Supports (S/UWS), and Tiger Paws (TP). Wrist joint moments, angles, total ROM arc, and GRF were examined by the 3 conditions using analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction and effect size (Cohen d). Results: For mean wrist flexion moment, both S/UWS and TP showed significantly higher values than the no-WG/S condition in landing phase 1 (S/UWS: P = .001, d = 1.30; TP: P = .019, d = 0.87). In angle comparisons in landing phase 1, no WG/S showed greater mean wrist extension angles compared with S/UWS (P = .046; d = 0.80), but no significant differences with TP (P = .096; d = 0.65). Also, in landing phase 1, total ROM arc of the right wrist was greater in the no-WG/S condition compared with S/UWS (P = .018; d = 0.88), but there were no differences with TP (P = .400; d = 0.52). Conclusion: These data show an increased wrist flexion moment using S/UWS and TP compared with the no-WG/S condition in landing phase 1 of back handsprings. Also, increased wrist extension angles and total arc ROM of the right wrist were found in the no-WG/S condition compared with S/UWS, but not with TP in landing phase 1. S/UWS may be helpful to reduce wrist joint angles, specifically wrist extension in landing phase 1, but both S/UWS and TP caused higher wrist flexion joint moment in landing phase 1. There were no differences found in GFG among the three variables. Clinical Relevance: In the first half of the back handspring, wrist guards can limit wrist extension joint angles and total arc ROM; however, an increased wrist flexion moment was found when wrist guards were worn, which may potentially lead to an increased risk of injury. Injury history, especially overuse signs/symptoms, and previous surgery on the wrist joint need to be well considered before the application or use of wrist guards. Also, the amount of time/exposure wearing wrist guards should be carefully controlled in young female gymnasts.

Self-efficacy Is Lower Following Musculoskeletal Injury Than Sport-related Concussion In Division I Female Gymnasts

Self-efficacy Is Lower Following Musculoskeletal Injury Than Sport-related Concussion In Division I Female Gymnasts

A Research and Clinical Framework for Understanding Achilles Injury in Female Collegiate Gymnasts - ERRATUM.

A Research and Clinical Framework for Understanding Achilles Injury in Female Collegiate Gymnasts - ERRATUM.

Effects of proprioceptive training using BOSU® balance trainer on core strength and static balance in young competitive rhythmic gymnasts

Purpose: The study aimed to examine the effects of eight weeks of proprioceptive training using a BOSU® balance trainer on core strength and static balance in young rhythmic gymnasts. Methods: Twenty-three young competitive female rhythmic gymnasts, (age: 9.7 ± 1.9 yrs; weight; 26.1 ± 6.5 kg; height: 131.2 ± 10.9 cm; years of experience in RG: 3.5 ± 1.7) were assigned into an experimental group (EG, n = 12) and a control group (CG, n = 11). Both groups underwent a series of tests included the side bridge test, the stork stand balance test, and the rhythmic gymnastics balance test before and after the experimental intervention. All participants engaged in regular rhythmic gymnastics training throughout the intervention period with EG supplemented with BOSU® balance trainer proprioceptive training. The intervention programme consisted of six sets of exercises that focused on improving core strength and static balance. Training volume was kept consistent throughout the experiment, with each exercise performed for 30 s followed by a 45-s rest in 2 sets, 3 times a week. Results: Results showed that EG improved core strength significantly for right (P &lt; 0.001) and left (P = 0.038) sides. However, there was no significant difference found in static balance (Stork Stand Balance Test and Rhythmic Gymnastics Balance Test) between EG and CG. Conclusion: The study concluded that proprioceptive training using BOSU® balance trainer implemented for 8 weeks on young competitive rhythmic gymnasts improved core strength but not in static balance

Effect of fast stretch-shortening cycle plyometric training on lower limb strength qualities in rhythmic gymnasts

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6-week fast stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) plyometric training programme on both fast and slow SSC strength qualities in pre-teen rhythmic gymnasts. Methods: Twenty-two female gymnasts, aged 10.8 ± 1.2 years, were divided into an experimental group (EG, n = 11) and a control group (CG, n = 11). Both groups underwent a series of tests such as 10/5 repeated jump and the countermovement jump before and after the 6-week plyometric intervention programme. All participants remained in their regular rhythmic gymnastics training during the intervention period and only EG underwent the fast SSC plyometric training. The plyometric training consists of three exercises focused on achieving a ground contact time of &lt;0.25s. The volume of foot contact was increased after 3 weeks, from 150 to 240 with 30 s rest between sets and 2 min rest between exercises for two times per week. Results: Results showed that EG improved significantly on reactive strength index (RSI) (53.5% ± 46.1%, P &lt; 0.001) and jump height (JH) (8.3% ± 25%, P = 0.018), but not for CG. Furthermore, significant differences were found in RSI (P = 0.015) and JH (P = 0.006) between EG and CG at post-test. Conclusions: The study concluded that plyometric training that focuses on fast SSC implemented for 6 weeks on pre-teen gymnasts improves the RSI and JH, which shows that fast SSC exercises enhance the reactive strength and suggest that adaptations from fast SSC training can be transferred to slow SSC capabilities.

Anthropometric Profile of Age Level &amp; National Level Female Gymnasts In Bangladesh

Introduction: Each sport has a unique anthropometric profile that may be distinguished based on the position, function, or event type within each sport discipline. Anthropometric measurements of gymnasts are important because they play a crucial role in their athletic performance. There isn't much research on gymnastics in Bangladesh. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the anthropometric fitness traits of age-level and national-level female gymnasts in Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 20 female gymnasts from Bangladesh Krira Sikkha Protisthan (BKSP) were recruited for the study, divided into two groups: 10 age-level gymnasts and 10 national-level gymnasts. Their ages ranged from 15 to 18 years. The International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry has outlined certain techniques for taking kinanthropometric measurements. The anthropometric characteristics, including height, weight, arm length, leg length, shoulder width, hip circumference&amp; sitting height, were analysed, and the results obtained from the two groups were compared by the analysed "t-test" (p &lt; 0.05). Results: The results indicate that the national-level gymnasts had significantly lower BMI and body fat percentages compared to the age-level gymnasts. Additionally, the study found that age-level gymnasts had significantly higher body fat percentages compared to national-level gymnasts. Conclusion: This study’s findings suggest a significant difference in the anthropometric profile of female gymnasts in Bangladesh between age-level and national-level athletes. These findings could be useful for coaches and athletes in designing training programs and optimizing performance for female gymnasts in Bangladesh.

WILL ELEVATING THE DIFFICULTY SCORES IMPROVE THE ODDS OF WINNING? THE CASE OF ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS EVENT FINALS

The aim of this study was to compare the difficulty (D) scores and final scores between the qualification round and event finals round for each apparatus in 2018–2020 Individual Apparatus World Cup Series and 2019 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. It was also to examine the association between strategy of D scores and winning a medal or not. Both male and female gymnasts who participated the event finals in 2018–2020 Apparatus World Cup Series and 2019 World Championships were the subject of present investigation. The dependent t test was used to analyze the difficulty scores and final scores. The Chi-square test was selected to test the numbers of distribution of increasing/non-increasing of difficulty scores and wining/losing a medal, and the odds ratio was also calculated. It shows that in all apparatus, there were meaningful difference in D scores between the qualification round and event finals round for both male and female gymnasts. The final scores of event finals round were significantly decreased as compared with the qualification round in men’s pommel horse, horizontal bar and women’s balance beam, floor exercise events. To elevate D scores in the event finals round of men’s pommel horse, horizontal bar and women’s floor exercise could significantly improve the odds for getting a medal. To our knowledge, this was the first study to compare the gymnast’s performance between the qualification and event finals. And we also determine the different D scores and the odds ratio of winning a medal in the event finals. When studying men’s pommel horse, horizontal bar and women’s balance beam, floor exercise events, it was prone to underestimate the scores if only the result of event finals was analyzed but without the qualification. Elevating D scores was not always guaranteed to increase the chance of winning. Coaches and gymnasts could refer to the current study to draw up the strategies for different competitions.

MOTNJE HRANJENJA ŠPANSKIH TELOVADCEV IN TELOVADK GLEDE NA SPOL IN RAVEN TEKMOVANJA

&#x0D; The aim of this study was to assess the body composition and the risk of developing an eating disorder (ED) in two groups of Spanish elite acrobatic gymnasts. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, where 130 acrobatic gymnasts aged 9 to 21 and registered with the Spanish federation voluntarily participated; 56 of them were competing at the international level and 74 at the national level. Height and weight measures were used to calculate body mass index (BMI) and skinfolds were measured to determine the percentage of body fat. The Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI-3-RF) was applied to assess the ED variables. The results revealed that the majority of gymnasts presented normal weight (BMI) and a low % body fat, and the international-level gymnasts showed lower values than national-level ones. 52.6% of the gymnasts in this study were at risk of developing an ED. As regards the scales, the scores related to drive for thinness were noteworthy, especially in women competing at the international level, who reported greater concern about weight and body image. The international-level gymnasts met most of the referring criteria; in particular, most senior gymnasts met criterion 3. There was an average percentage of gymnasts at risk of developing an ED. The risk factors were more noticeable among female international-level gymnasts, who presented greater drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction.&#x0D;

Sex-based comparison of trunk flexors and extensors functional and contractile characteristics in young gymnasts

PurposeGymnastics is a sport characterized by acrobatic and postural strength exercises that require great trunk muscles activation and control. Males and females can be characterized by different morphological and neuromuscular characteristics of such muscles, and this might be of importance for training and injury prevention. The aim of this study was to measure different aspects of trunk flexors and extensors characteristics in a sample of young female and male gymnasts.MethodsTwenty-eight sub-elite adolescent female (n = 14, 16 y, 14–17) and male (n = 14, 17 y, 14–18) gymnasts participated in this cross-sectional study. Tensiomyography was used to assess muscle contractile properties of the rectus abdominis (m.RA) and erector spinae (m.ES), while muscle thickness was assessed for abdominal muscles and lumbar multifidus (m.LM) with ultrasound. Flexors, extensors, and lateral endurance tests were performed.ResultsFemales presented smaller m.ES radial displacement (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.535), smaller internal oblique thickness (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.543), and shorter lateral endurance (p = 0.002, pη2 = 0.302). A significant side × sex interaction was found for the external oblique thickness (p = 0.004, pη2 = 0.276).ConclusionPresent findings report sex-based differences in abdominal and lumbar muscles characteristics and support the development of different sex-based training and rehabilitation protocols in adolescent gymnasts.

Coordination ladder as a modern means of online training to improve the physical fitness of female gymnasts 8-9 years old

Purpose: to determine the effectiveness of the developed methodology using special exercises on the coordination ladder to increase the level of physical fitness of female gymnasts 8-9 years old during online training. Material, participants and methods: 24 female athletes aged 8-9 years old, who are engaged in artistic gymnastics in the basic training group of the first year of study, were divided into control and main groups of 12 female athletes. Work experience: 3-4 years. Type of training in both groups – online training. The training process of the main group for the development of physical qualities included special exercises on the coordination ladder. In the training process of the control group for the development of physical qualities, exercises from the program were used. To assess the strength qualities of female athletes, the following tests were used: T1-lifting the legs in the hang on the gymnastic wall until the foot touches the rail behind the head (number of times); T2 – «Hanging angle», (s); T3 - lifting the legs to a right angle in the hang on the gymnastic wall (number of times). To assess the speed-strength qualities of female gymnasts, the following tests were used: T4-jumping up, bending over from a squat (number of times in 20 s); T5 pull-ups in 10 s (number of times); T6 long jump from a place (cm). To assess the coordination abilities of gymnasts, the «Yula» test was used, (s) (according to Karpenko L.A., Viner I.A., Sivitsky V.A., 2007) and shuttle run 4x9 m, (s) (Order of the Ministry of Youth and sport of Ukraine, 2018). Group results were compared using Student's t-test and nonparametric Rosenbaum's t-test (Q). Results: as a result of the introduction of a methodology using special exercises on the coordination ladder to increase the level of physical fitness of female gymnasts 8-9 years old during online training, statistically significant (p&lt;0,05–0,01) improvements in performance were obtained for all tests, except the result of the «Hanging angle» test (static strength). The best results were shown by female gymnasts in speed-strength jumping exercises (T4; and T6) and coordination exercises (T7 and T8), where the probability of significant differences reached 99% at p&lt;0,01. In tests for the development of speed-strength qualities and dynamic strength of the abdominal press and arms, the proposed exercises on the coordination ladder turned out to be effective, which was confirmed by the results of tests T1, T3, T5. Conclusions: the positive influence of the developed methodology with the use of special exercises on the coordination ladder on the level of physical fitness of female gymnasts 8-9 years old during online training was determined. It was established that the proposed methodology contributed to the increase in the level of physical fitness of female athletes of the MG in all tests in comparison with the results of female athletes of the CG. The results obtained testify to the effectiveness of the developed methodology and allow us to recommend it for use in the training process of athletes in gymnastic sports at the stage of initial and basic training, for recreational and training sessions. The proposed exercises can be used both during online and offline training.

Body composition profiles of female acrobatic gymnasts of different age categories

Body composition, overweight or underweight, and adipose tissue are factors that determine social health status. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish the body composition profile, adiposity distribution and body mass index (BMI) of acrobatic gymnasts of different age categories. A total of 129 women participated, divided by role: tops (n=54; X=11.23 years; SD=3.04) and bases (n=75; X=14.46 years; SD=2.08), and age category. Anthropometric measurements including skinfolds were collected, and BMI, body fat percentages through different validated formulas, and muscle, bone and remainder percentages were calculated. Descriptive and comparative analyses among categories were carried out. The results showed no significant differences in any variable among tops. BMI was only above the 50th percentile in the youngest gymnasts of age group 1 and in 9-year-old gymnasts of age group 4. There were significant differences among bases. In general, adipose tissue values were higher in senior gymnasts, but no linear relationship among categories was established. For BMI, almost all categories were above the 50th percentile, and only 16-year-old gymnasts of age group 3 presented grade 1 thinness. The tops group showed a higher risk of presenting extreme thinness. Furthermore, no clear relationship was found between body composition and age category.

The role of choregraphic training in the development of artistic skills in 7–8-year-old female gymnasts

Within rhythmic gymnastics, the choreographic training of 7–8-year-old children is a current issue, but not valued in the theory and practice of sport. Since the choreographic training represents one of the basic links that conditions the aesthetic training of the movement, it offers the maximum possibilities of knowing the school of movements, which positively reflects on the level of technical training of the gymnasts. Choreographic training must be based on elementary technique, a correct outfit, stable motor skills, musical training and a series of requirements of this activity. Well-systematized choreographic training develops muscle elasticity, agility and coordination capabilities of movements, contributes to achieving harmonious and expressive movements. In the choreographic training, exercises from various dance styles are used to develop the qualities that dance execution requires: support force, joint mobility, the formation of body aesthetics and the improvement of artistic execution and rhythmicity. Choreographic training is more easily formed in childhood, when we have to act correctly by applying a scientifically based system, but this is achieved in performance. We propose to form a qualified choreographic training of gymnasts to be able to face the needs imposed by the Scoring Code of the International Federation of Rhythmic Gymnastics.

Construction of a Specific Test for Flexibility Assessment in Rhythmic Gymnastics

Rhythmic gymnastics is a combination of sport and art, in which flexibility is one of the most important abilities and plays an important role in the performance specification equation. However, there is limited systematic research on specific tests of flexibility in rhythmic gymnastics for recognising children's potential and tracking the training process. The primary purpose of this research was to construct a measurement instrument for evaluating flexibility that would be applied specifically to rhythmic gymnastics. The sample consisted of 41 female rhythmic gymnasts aged 10-12 (X=11.05, SD=0.84). All of them are members of two rhythmic gymnastics clubs from Croatia and registered with the Croatian Gymnastics Federation. We used three familiar flexibility tests: - forward bend on a bench, frontal split with hand support, split in a supine position - and one new test – frontal split on an elevated surface. Results of the statistical analyses have shown that the new test measures flexibility, which is required for success in rhythmic gymnastics. There is a significant correlation between individual measurements (p&lt;0.001), so this test is considered reliable. It would be good to implement the new test when selecting children for rhythmic gymnastics as well as during transitive measurements in the training process.

Preseason lower extremity range of motion, flexibility, and strength in relation to in-season injuries in NCAA division I gymnasts

ABSTRACT Objectives To determine if preseason lower extremity ROM, flexibility, and strength differ in collegiate gymnasts (NCAA Division 1) who do or do not sustain an injury during the competitive season. Methods Over four seasons, a total of 15 female gymnasts (age = 20.5 ± 1.0 years) underwent preseason screening (30 gymnast-season). We tested joint ROM (hip: flexion, internal and external rotation; ankle: weightbearing dorsiflexion), muscle flexibility (passive straight leg raise, Thomas,’ Ober’s, Ely’s tests) and strength (hip extensors, abductors, and flexors isometric strength via a handheld dynamometer; knee: quadriceps and hamstring isokinetic strength at 60°/sec). The team athletic trainer tracked overuse lower extremity injuries (restricted gymnasts from full participation, occurred as from participation in organized practice or competition, and required medical attention) during each season. For athletes that tested multiple seasons, each encounter was considered independent, and each preseason assessment was linked to overuse injuries sustained during the same competitive season. Gymnasts were dichotomized into injured and non-injured groups. An independent t-test was used to measure differences in preseason outcomes between injured and non-injured groups. Results During four years, we recorded 23 overuse lower extremity injuries. Gymnasts that sustained an in-season overuse injury demonstrated significantly lower hip flexion ROM (mean difference: −10.6°; 95% confidence interval: −16.5, −4.6; p < 0.01) and lower hip abduction strength (mean difference: −4.7% of body weight; 95% confidence interval: −9.2, −0.3; p = 0.04). Conclusion Gymnasts who sustain an in-season overuse lower extremity injury have significant preseason deficit of hip flexion ROM and weakness in the hip abductors. These findings indicate potential impairments in the kinematic & kinetic chains responsible for skill performance and energy absorption during landing.

Gymnastics and concussions: A retrospective chart review

ABSTRACT Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical presentation (using PCSS), mechanism of injury, and recovery time of concussions sustained by gymnasts. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed at Boston Children’s Hospital: Sports Medicine Clinic. Patients were identified with the words ‘gymnastics’ and ‘concussion.’ Male and female gymnasts were included if they sustained a concussion during gymnastics training or competition and were between the ages of 6–22 years old. Sex, age, injury site, diagnosis, mechanism of injury, and time to presentation are described. Patients were compared during different types of gymnastics events for overall symptom burden, and individual symptom severities. Results A total of 201 charts were assessed over a 6-year period and 62 patients met inclusion criteria. Floor exercise was the most common event at the time of injury. Loss of consciousness occurred in 20% of injuries. There was no significant association between the type of event and PCSS upon initial clinical visit (p = 0.82). A total of 13 gymnasts returned to the clinic for a subsequent injury after their concussion (Table 3). Conclusions Gymnasts are at risk for sport-related concussions. Most gymnasts reporting to a tertiary care center with the diagnosis of concussion sustain their injuries during floor exercise.

Age-Related Differences between Maximum Flight Height of Basic Skills on Floor, Beam and Vault and Physical Condition of Youth Female Artistic Gymnasts.

In women's artistic gymnastics, difficult elements with great flight heights have to be performed on the apparatuses. However, the importance of the physical condition for generating flight height and its development with age remains elusive. Therefore, we investigated the age-related differences of lower body power, reactive strength, 20 m sprint speed, flight heights (basic elements on beam and floor) and run-up speed on the vault of 33 youth female gymnasts. Further, we calculated correlations between all parameters separately for different age groups (7-9 y; 10-12 y; 13-15 y). We found larger differences between the age groups 7-9 y and 10-12 y than between 10-12 y and 13-15 y on the apparatuses (10-12 y vs. 7-9 y: +23% to +52%; 13-15 y vs. 10-12 y: +2% to +24%) and for physical conditioning variables (10-12 y vs. 7-9 y: +12 to +24%; 13-15 y vs. 10-12 y: + 5% to +16%). The correlations between flight heights and physical condition were the lowest for age group 7-9 y (r: from -0.47 to 0.78; 10-12 y: r: from -0.19 to 0.80; 13-15 y: r: from -0.20 to 0.90). An optimal application of the physical condition to enhance the gymnastics-specific performance (e.g., flight height) is strongly age-dependent. Regular monitoring of jumping abilities and the derivation of training recommendations can accelerate this development and the future performance of young athletes.