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.

http://www.icsspe.org/portal/bulletin-january2004.htm
Book Review – Scientific aspects of women’s
gymnastics
Kelley Butler and Darlene A. Kluka, USA
|