The basic format of the mushroom exercises is intended to keep the routines
geared to the average recreational participant. The emphasis is on good circle
technique which is reflected in the virtuosity bonus. Levels 4 through 6 are
used to progressively introduce each of the different categories of circle
skills through the use of specified bonus elements.
Over the past quadrennium, analysis has shown that the great majority of
athletes experience a rapid degradation of circle technique when transitioning
from the mushroom to the pommel horse. A new approach is to provide a more
gradual transition to the pommel horse from the mushroom. For this reason, at
Level 7 the gymnast performs the same skill set he has already mastered but on a
new apparatus, a pommel-less horse. The benefits of this approach include the
ability to continue circle technique refinement and the opportunity to build a
more relevant repertoire of skills that can serve as a foundation on the horse
for optional gymnastics. The basic format of pommel-less horse routine is
designed for the average gymnast while the specified bonus elements offer
opportunities for the diverse ability levels of the every gymnast.
Pendulum Swings - While the compulsory program no longer requires competition on
the pommel horse in the form of leg swings, cuts, and scissors, it is useful to
continue development on this apparatus. See the basic technique on pendulum
swings.
Training on pommels - While the Level 7 and Level 8 programs are on a
pommel-less horse, gymnasts and coaches are encouraged to start (or maintain) a
circle training program on single and double pommels. Care should be taken not
to compromise the technique of the circle as the gymnast transitions to pommels.
Failure to include a pommel-training program during this time may result in a
limited skill repertoire on pommel horse in Level 9 & 10.
Injury prevention - With the increased time and training on the mushroom and
pommel-less horse it is important for coaches and gymnasts to implement a proper
wrist strength and wrist flexibility program.
1. One double
leg circle.
SB#1: Two double leg circles.
SB#2: Two double leg circles.
2. ½
double leg circle with ¼ turn to flank dismount.
1. Double leg circle.
2. Double leg circle
SB#1: Additional two double leg circles.
SB#2: ½ spindle within two double leg circles.
SB#3: Two
flaired double leg circles.
3. Double leg circle
4. ½ double leg circle with ¼ turn to flank dismount.
1. Two double leg circles.
2. Czechkehre
(Moore).
3. One or more double leg circles.
SB#1: Direct
Stockli A (DSA).
4. Two or more flaired double leg circles.
SB#2: Replace #4 with ½ spindle within two or more flaired double leg
circles.
SB#3: Following #4 or SB#2, add a Russian
wendeswing with 360°.
5. Double leg circle.
6. ½ double leg circle with ¼ turn to flank dismount.
1. Two front loops.
2. Two front loops.
SB#1: Replace #2 with two flaired front loops.
3. Loop with ¼ turn forward to side support.
4. Two double leg circles in side support.
5. One circle with ¼ turn forward to cross support rearways.
6. One back loop.
SB#2: Replace #6 with ½ spindle within one or two back
loops.
SB#3: Add a Magyar.
SB#4: Add a Sivado.
SB#5: Add a Russian
wendeswing with 270° or more.
7. One circle in cross or side support into flank
or wende dismount.
Integral part of gymnastics coaching process are skill drills. They help gymnasts to learn easier and technically correct. With GYM DRILL PRO you will find variety of ideas for the most the basic gymnastics skills. There are plenty of images with skill drill progressions. It is intended to support explicitly the qualified coaches in their daily coaching business. DO NOT practice without the guidance of proper professionals.