FIG Safety Standards 2

Question 1

A gymnast is ready to try a new back handspring on the floor. Which sequence follows safe skill progression?

Accepted Answer

Drills on an incline mat, spotted on floor, then independent on floor

Answer

Safe progression goes from simple, assisted, lower-risk settings to independent work on the target surface.

Question 2

What is the main goal of physical spotting in gymnastics coaching?

Accepted Answer

Guiding the athlete and protecting them from injury during learning

Answer

Spotting supports correct movement and prevents dangerous falls while the athlete learns.

Question 3

Before spotting a skill, what should a coach confirm about their own position?

Accepted Answer

They can reach the athlete's center of mass without blocking the path

Answer

Good spotting position gives access to the hips and trunk while leaving the athlete's movement path clear.

Question 4

A coach notices a gymnast keeps balking at the takeoff of a new vault. What is the safest response?

Accepted Answer

Step back to an easier progression and rebuild confidence

Answer

Repeated balking signals the athlete is not ready, so regressing the skill reduces injury risk.

Question 5

Why should spotting be reduced gradually rather than removed all at once?

Accepted Answer

Athletes need time to show they can control the skill without help

Answer

Phasing out support lets the coach confirm consistent independent control before full removal.

FIG - International Gymnastics Federation Coach Certification Practice Test