About Splits for Gymnastics Beginners
Hi,
Splits for gymnastics are one of the earliest and most basic stretch forms to master. Learning how to perform a variety of splits can help your body to become more limber, agile, and flexible. They will prepare your muscles for more advanced moves and help train you to undertake a series of developmental strategies that will transform you from an inexperienced, stiff novice to an accomplished, graceful artistic or rhythmic gymnastics protege.
While younger kids in gymnastics typically learn simpler stretches at an early age, the slightly older kids learn how to perform splits in gymnastics with the help of a coach or instructor. It takes time to figure out your flexibility range, starting with your initial muscle tone and determining your stretching ability with several different exercises. Take time to figure out your starting point and ending point in terms of setting goals for learning how to do splits.
For example, if while sitting on the floor with outstretched legs you are able to touch your toes with your fingers but can only stretch to where your nose is about halfway to your knees, you realize that the next step, is to gently lengthen your muscles over a period of time to be able to touch your nose to your knees. Some gymnasts do this faster than others can, so don’t be discouraged if it takes you longer than you had hoped. Typically, gymnastics training will invlove a lot of stretching, often forcibly stretched by trainers, coaches or other gymnasts.
Start by warming up your body for a workout by doing gentle stretches first. Your instructor or coach will probably assign a set routine for this purpose. Or you may have the choice of developing your own warm-up activity. Wear comfortable clothing and choose a time of day when you won’t be too tired to think clearly or work on the stretches. The young gymnast who is focused on her goals will also usually stretch at home, in front of the TV, in her room and so on.. but please be sure any practice done at home is safe.
Use a progressive technique that begins in a low-key way to avoid over-stretching your muscles before they are properly warmed. Gradually work toward your stretching goal. Sooner or later you will hit the mark and be ready to set the next goal. If you come to conclusion you are unable to perform the splits for gymnastics, consult with the coach, because invariably, you will eventually be able to do them although it may take a modified approach.
Learning to perform splits is an exciting milestone in a young gymnasts career. When you reach this point, you may be ready to move forward in mastering more complex moves. The thrill of achievement is one of the personal rewards for participating in athletic competition and developing new skills. The enthusiasm, challenge, and success associated with setting and meeting tough goals can carry over into other areas of your life as well, and teach important values like patience, perseverance, and pleasure in self-discipline and professional accomplishments. Keep all this in mind when working on your splits, but be sensible.
Until next time, remember, be the best gymnastics parent you can be, your child deserves nothing less.
Thanks,
Murray
