Precautions for Gymnasts

Series Summary

The sport of gymnastics involves a sequence of movements and exercises that require strength and flexibility. Typical gymnastic moves include handsprings, handstands, forward rolls, tucks, somersaults, vaults, and other acrobatic maneuvers. Competitive gymnastics, like those in the Olympics, take a lot of dedication and practice. There are many types of gymnastics including artistic, rhythmic, sports aerobics, sports acrobatics, trampoline, and power tumbling. These are all regulated by the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique. The two most popular types of gymnastics are artistic and rhythmic gymnastics; these are the types seen in the Summer Olympic Games.

In this series of videos, you will learn one of the essential building blocks of gymnastics: the cartwheel. Expert gymnast Heather Tocquigny teaches you how to do the basic cartwheel, including planning your moves, and tips for gaining momentum. She also demonstrates how to do a dive cartwheel and the more advanced aerial cartwheel, where your hands never even touch the ground. You'll also get warm-up exercises and stretches, as well as advice on what body types are best for gymnastics and what age to start your kids in gymnastics lessons.

Video Transcript

"As a safety precaution it's always advisory to check with your doctor before any type of exercise. Go to your local gym and check with an instructor there who's trained, who can help you out with all of your tumbling. Now I'm an expert at cartwheels and I'm going to show you today on how to do the perfect cartwheel."