How to Do Gymnastics at Home for First Timers
Gymnastics is a sport that requires great strength and flexibility. You can do gymnastics at home as long as you take it slow and master the moves. Since your home is not set-up like a gym with the equipment and padding, it is important that you learn as much as you can about gymnastics before starting.
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Instructions
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Watch gymnastics videos and read books. There are several moves for beginners you will practice such as the basic roll, cartwheel, back bend, handstand and headstand. Videos will help you understand how to complete the basic moves.
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Stretch before you practice gymnastics at home. Stretching before any exercise can help prevent injury and warm up your muscles. Set up a stretching program that you use each time you do gymnastics. Stretch your hamstrings, calves, back, arms and neck.
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Practice the basic moves first on a mat. After you get really good at the forward and backward roll, move up. Only advance to the next move after you have mastered the basic move.
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Use a wall to balance yourself. When you practice moves such as a handstand or headstand use the wall to support your back and feet. Keep your elbows straight on a handstand to prevent from dropping onto your head.
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Get someone to spot you when doing your gymnastics. A spotter can help you when doing your back bend by placing her hand under your back and pushing up. Also she can help keep you from falling if your arms give out.
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Practice your cartwheel outside. If you do cartwheels inside, you run a risk of injuring yourself or breaking something in your house. After mastering the cartwheel where one hand and one foot are off of the ground at the same time you move up to the round off. When doing a round off, you may need your spotter. Move faster and allow both hands to hit the ground at the same time, while both feet are in the air. When you land put both feet on the ground at the same time.
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Tips & Warnings
Gymnastics is a sport that can result in injury. Think before trying a new skill. If you are not completely sure it is safe, avoid doing it at home. Watch out for obstacles in your home. Set aside a safe area of your home that is free from glass and mirrors with enough room for practice. Avoid doing anything that can be harmful.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit girl in gymnastics poses image by huaxiadragon from Fotolia.com
