The Science of Gymnastics

The Science of Gymnastics is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the fundamental physiological, biomechanical and psychological principles underpinning this most demanding of sports.

Drawing on cutting edge scientific research, and including contributions from leading international sport scientists and experienced coaches, the book represents an important link between theory and performance. With useful summaries, data and review questions included throughout, the book examines every key aspect of gymnastic training and performance, including:

• energetic, physical and physiological assessment
• training principles
• diet, nutrition and supplementation
• growth and development issues
• kinetics and kinematics
• angular and linear motion
• angular momentum
• stress, anxiety and coping
• motivation and goal setting
• mental skills training for practice and competition
• the psychology of learning and performance.

In a concluding section the authors reflect on how fundamental scientific components (physiology, biomechanics and psychology) interact to enhance gymnastic performance, helping students to develop a better understanding of the relationship between sport science and sporting performance. The Science of Gymnastics is essential reading for all students, coaches and researchers with an interest in gymnastics or applied sport science.

Introduction  Part 1: Applied Physiology of Gymnastics  1. Energetics of Gymnastics  2. Fitness Model of High Level Gymnasts  3. Training Principles in Gymnastics  4. Planning and Periodisation in Gymnastics  5. Physical Preparation  6. Specific Physical and Physiological Assessment of Gymnasts  7. Growth, Sexual Developmental and Hormonal Regulations in Relation to Fitness Levels in Gymnastics  8. Diet, Nutrition and Supplementation in Gymnastics  9. Investigations in Rhythmic Gymnastics  Part 2: Applied Biomechanics in Gymnastics  10. Anthropometry and Biomechanical Models in Gymnastics  11. Linear Kinematics in Gymnastics (Description of Motion)  12. Angular Kinematics in Gymnastics  13. Linear Kinetics in Gymnastics (Underlying Causes of Motion)  14. Angular Kinetics in Gymnastics  15. Advanced Specific Examples from each Event  Part 3: Applied Psychology in Gymnastics  16. Stress, Anxiety and Coping in Gymnastics  17. Personality and Motivation in Gymnastics  18. Goal Setting in Gymnastics  19. Mental Imagery in Gymnastics  20. Self Image and Self Confidence in Gymnastics  21. Psychology of Learning and Performance in Gymnastics  22. Psychological Issues Encountering Performance Enhancement  Part 4: Interaction Between Physiological, Biomechanical and Psychological Aspects of Gymnastics Performance