Resources
No.40
January 2004
 
    

Book Review – Scientific aspects of women’s gymnastics
Kelley Butler and Darlene A. Kluka
Grambling State University of Louisiana, USA



Sands, W., Caine, D., & Borms, J. (2003). Scientific aspects of women’s gymnastics. Basel, Switzerland: Karger. ISBN: 3-8055-7476-2. 120.50 EUR
The relationship of science and the sport of gymnastics must be a seamless one if human performance is to be most efficient and effective. The authors of this important text have provided an evidence-based approach to the analysis and synthesis of research into meaningful and useable form for physicians, scientists, coaches, athletic trainers, parents and athletes.
The authors have succinctly explored the aspects of biomechanics, injury and growth, kinanthropometry, and physiology through women’s gymnastics. The first section, biomechanics, provides the reader with dimensions of vaulting, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. This section provides insights into each apparatus structure and its impact on performance excellence. The acquisition of skills in an efficient manner is also delineated with excellent diagrams and illustrations to supplement the text. A thorough, yet straight-forward, discussion of twisting, landings, and challenges for future research are also presented.
Each section of the book follows a logically simple format: a brief introduction of the section, specific aspect information, practical applications and challenges for future research. Those researchers interested in growing the sport can benefit from an explanation for future research.
Injury epidemiology is a must read for a thorough review of the literature is included, addressing the who, where, when and how in women’s gymnastics. Individual, environmental, and time issues are presented and complemented by details of injury severity, injury risk factors and challenges for future research.
Another detailed portion involving injury and growth is detailed, focusing on the anatomy and physiology of epiphyseal growth plates, acute and chronic epiphyseal injury, exercise within limits of tolerance, and susceptibility to injury. Aspects of kinanthropometry, including body size, somatotype, proportionality, body composition, growth and maturation, nutrition, are presented to answer the issue of their impact on growth.
The authors present a specific fitness model through gymnastics for discussion. The model includes valuable summaries and perspectives on metabolism, strength, speed, power, flexibility, skill acquisition, and body size and composition. It is evident that the authors are not only scholars and researchers in sport science, but are intimately familiar with the sport itself as athletes, coaches, judges, spectators, and media analysts.
Scientific Aspects of Women’s Gymnastics is a particularly important book for beginning coaches. The synthesis of information in an easy-to-understand and thought-provoking style provides the reader with answers to several key performance questions: What are the metabolic demands of training sessions? Why do gymnasts need aerobic conditioning? At what age should gymnasts begin serious training?
The only drawback of the book for those who would benefit from the content and format is its cost. At over 120 EUR, beginning coaches, parents or athletes may struggle to find the funds necessary to purchase it. Perhaps the book will become available in paperback, thereby making it more affordable. The information is too valuable to be exclusive.




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