Mas Watanabe reports that of 13 healthy Level 10 gymnasts at the beginning of season, only 2 are “healthy enough right now to train hard without taping or icing and some type of rehabilitation”.
… There are only days left before J.O. Championships.
Details – Mid Season Break Down
… The most areas of injuries were from 2 main areas: legs (ankles & knees) and the lower back.
Also, many of the injuries were chronic type injuries, so they could train, but working with some aches and pains. Some injuries require the support of athletic tape or supporter during the training and constant rehabilitation work. …
Gymnasts being injured (or not nearly 100%) for their peak meet seems to be more common today, than in the past. Frustrating for both the coach and athlete.
Some kids find themselves in this situation year after year.
Solutions?
Firstly, we should study gyms that don’t have this problem. Two clubs that jump to mind are Geddert’s Twistars and Oakville. Both have a lot of Level 10 and higher gymnasts who actually show up at every meet, and both clubs keep their older kids training. What are they doing right?
Next we should look at the last 5 weeks before the peak meet. The main goal should be to avoid injury. And stay healthy.
Obviously, a taper in volume will help. Decreasing difficulty, if possible, will help. Modifying landings.
Safety spotting, especially at team training camps.
It’s as important to be healthy for the Peak meet, as ready.
… Leave a comment if you’ve any other recommendations.
Gymnastics Coaching.com 