Category Archives: Ask The Gymnastics Coach

Answers About the USA Gymnastics HOPES and Junior Pre-Elite Programs

Answering a parent’s questions about the HOPES and Junior Pre-Elite programs, including qualifying, testing and competition information. Continue reading

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Elite Testing

Answers to questions, links to resources and information about Elite testing and strength training requested by a young gymnast. Continue reading

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Beginner Backward Roll Safety Concerns

There are some backward roll safety concerns regarding neck injuries, especially when young beginner gymnasts are first learning them. Continue reading

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Curing Straddle Back Problems

There are a number of training and practice options for fixing problems with a gymnast’s straddle back. which also work with fixing other gymnastic skills. Continue reading

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USA Gymnastics vs USAIGC

Answers to questions from a gymnast wondering about the relative merits of USA Gymnastics vs USAIGC when trying to get a college scholarship. Continue reading

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Gym Does Not Allow Private Lessons for Team Gymnasts

It is difficult to understand when gyms make private lessons & other decisions that make little sense financially or in terms of competition. Continue reading

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Learning Cartwheels

Apparently, there are misconceptions even about learning cartwheels. Is lack of strength, poor technique or training system to blame? Continue reading

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Devastated That She is Quitting Because of Back Injury

Back pain and back injury are all too common now in youth sports including gymnastics. A review of some of the considerations to be taken. Continue reading

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4 Year Old with Potential – lol

What to do and when with a 4 year old with gymnastics talent, potential, heredity & parent who is planning her daughter’s gymnastics career. Continue reading

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Younger Sister Banned From Gym

A parent wants to move her oldest gymnast to a higher level gym and the current gym bans a younger team gymnast from staying and competing on their team. Continue reading

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