Workouts & Support for Mens Gymnastics
Mens gymnastics, although it does not seem to get as much attention as womens gymnastics, is a growing field of athletic competition. Switch on the television or pick up a sports magazine and chances are it won’t be long before you read something about men competing gymnastically in local, regional, or international events.
Long before womens gymnastics came into existance, mens gymnastics existed in some form or another, in fact gymnastics history begins over 2000 years ago with all men competitions. Yet in recent times, public media has focused more attention on females in gymnastics events. But men have their share of talent as well, and they deserve attention and appreciation for their hard work in this exciting arena.
Men’s gymnastic workouts may last longer than women’s practices because men are considered to be stronger and have greater endurance in many sports where women participate. Yet, this does not mean that men are any better than women in gymnastics. It just means that they go about their workouts a differently. These workouts tend to become laborious and intensive, with muscle building and flexibility some of the chief goals. The music used in masculine workouts could be a little different from the type heard in a female gymnastic environment, more machismo.
When men’s gymnastics teams practice, the members need to come prepared. That means men need to dress in comfortable, form-fitting workout attire that prepares them to perform the movements and stretches that are required in this demanding sport; generally men are not as flexible as women but they are still required to master gymnastics splits and other fundamental gymnastics skills.
Men sweat more and must bring or have access to plenty of fluid to keep from getting dehydrated. The gymnastics equipment should be checked at each practice to ensure it remains safe and usable. One loose ring could cripple someone for life. This means everything needs to be put away safely after the practice to keep things from getting damaged or broken. Obviously, it’s the coach’s job to oversee the equipment, but it won’t hurt the team members to double-check things.
Men’s gymnastics practices can be grueling. If you are related to a male gymnast, give him space when he returns from a workout. Chances are he will want a hot shower and clean clothes, something to eat, and plenty to drink to replace the fluids lost during practice. Then it might be helpful to praise your guy (son, boyfriend, husband) for his commitment to a demanding sport like gymnastics. It’s difficult to go to work or school each day and then head to the gym for a demanding workout that may last hours. Sore muscles, headaches, and bruises will result, making it all the more necessary to help the young man in your life feel good about his athletic capabilities when he comes home; women and girls in gymnastics are no less deserving of this consideration when they return from training.
If the man in your life loves gymnastics, support his involvement with the sport by going to competitions and rooting him on, giving him the occasional break from house chores on practice nights, and helping to provide clean uniforms and healthy nutrition. He will appreciate your support in this vital part of his life, and you will enjoy the prestige of being related to a really cool, athletically amazing and dedicated young man (with a great bod!).
Until next time, remember, be the best gymnastics parent you can be, your child deserves nothing less.
Thanks,
Murray
