Tom Meadows – H Bar Dismounts

Tom notes that some, including Orozco, use quite a minimal tap and still do world class dismounts.

In fact, most of the Chinese gymnasts are using less tap now.

MOST around the world are still using the Tong Fei (Chinese) tap.

This video starts at the beginning, includes dozens of tips.

I like Tom’s inclusions of common errors.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

LED snowboard prototype

Click PLAY or watch it on Twitter.

High Performance Centres in Spain open

The National centres in Spain closed March 11th … and stayed closed for 67 days.

Spain was hit hard by COVID-19.  Plan is to start training slowly and with an abundance of caution.

160 athletes were evaluated by questionnaires, examinations and blood tests. Only 2% were not allowed to return. Yet.

Athletes in phase 0

Ray Zapata

(via Gimnasia artistica masculina España)

USAG on safe reopening

It seems to many that USA Gymnastics was quite slow in posting their own document.

Member clubs had already reopened before they saw this document, I believe.

Here’s a SAMPLE:

Spotting

• Athlete safety is paramount, and coaches should not be restricted from spotting an athlete if necessary, to protect the athlete from injury.

• While spotting remains an important element to athlete safety, consider alternative teaching/coaching methods that align with social distancing protocols.

• Clearly communicate any alternative teaching/coaching methods so they are understood by the athletes and their parents.

• Coaches should consider the use of gloves for personal contact, with a goal of switching gloves between athletes.

Parent Viewing

• Per USA Gymnastics’ Safe Sport Policy, a parent/guardian must be provided the opportunity to observe their child’s training.

Read the entire document for yourself:

USAG Safe Reopening

inspiring films for gymnasts & coaches

Nick Ruddock collected a list for those stuck at home because of COVID-19.

Invictus [Rugby]

Peaceful Warrior [Gymnastics]

Rocky [Boxing]

See the whole list.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Kyle Shewfelt interview

Always entertaining and inspiring, click through to the podcast to hear the 2004 Olympic Floor Champ.