Training Techniques Flashcards

A coach breaks a back handspring into a bridge kickover, a back walkover, and a spotted back handspring on a wedge. What teaching method is this?

Answer: Part-progressive (progression) method

Lead-up drills that build the skill one step at a time are the part-progressive method.

Which type of practice schedule tends to produce better long-term retention of several gymnastics skills, even though performance during the session may look worse?

Answer: Random (interleaved) practice

Contextual interference from random practice improves retention and transfer, even though performance during the session drops.

During the cognitive stage of motor learning, which feedback approach is generally most effective?

Answer: Frequent, simple feedback on one or two key points

Beginners can only process a little information at a time, so short, frequent cues on one or two points work best.

What is the main purpose of a soft landing pit or resi-pit when teaching new release moves or saltos?

Answer: To reduce impact and injury risk while the athlete learns the movement pattern

Soft landing surfaces let gymnasts repeat new skills safely while they are still learning.

Which principle states that training adaptations are specific to the type of movement, energy system, and muscles used?

Answer: Principle of specificity

Specificity (the SAID principle) means the body adapts to the exact demands placed on it.

A gymnast routinely arches through the lower back on handstands. Which conditioning focus best addresses this?

Answer: Anterior core strength and shoulder flexibility to achieve a hollow body line

A hollow, stacked handstand needs a strong anterior core and enough shoulder flexion to avoid compensating through the lumbar spine.

Why are drills often performed on a trampoline or tumble track before moving to the floor?

Answer: They provide more air time and reduced impact, so athletes can rehearse body positions and rotation safely

Rebound surfaces give extra flight time and softer landings for rehearsing rotation and shapes.