What are some of the skills taught in gymnastics?
There are a number of locomotor and non-locomotor skills that students should explore during gymnastics sessions. These include:
Statics
Statics are all of the “held” or “still” positions in gymnastics. These should be the starting point for any gymnastics program. They include different positions in which students may balance on different body parts.
Jumping
Jumping involves students projecting themselves into the air. It can involve jumping from both legs, one leg or even from two hands and two feet. Landing techniques must also be taught to students when performing jumping activities. Jumping activities may be off the floor or from a low bench.
Landings
Body control on landing is an important skill because it enables students to control the movement of their body. It is used in all jumping activities and in a range of games and sports.
Important points to remember when teaching landings are:
- initial contact with the floor should be on the balls of the feet, followed by bending of the ankles, knees and hips
- feet should be about shoulder width apart when making contact with the floor
- the heels should not spring back up but should remain on the floor
This landing sequence is often referred to as the “motorbike landing”.
Rotations (Rolling)
A rotation is any turn or spin around an internal axis. These include turning the body left and right, log rolls and egg (side) rolls.
Climbing and hanging
Climbing and hanging skills help students to develop spatial awareness, body tension and grip strength. Students can develop their skills in climbing and hanging by using playground equipment.
Locomotions
Locomotor activities occur frequently in gymnastics and some are unique to gymnastics, such as moving along a balance beam or low bench. Others, such as running, skipping, jumping and landing, are generic to many games and sports.
© State of New South Wales through the Department of Education and Training, 1999 - 2009. All rights reserved.
Conditions of use | Help | Contact us
Report incorrect, out-of-date or missing information