This new volume in the Handbook of Sports Medicine and Science series, published in conjunction with the Medical Commission of the International Olympic Committee, offers comprehensive and practical guidance on the training and medical care of competitive gymnasts. Written and edited by leading trainers, team doctors, coaches and other professionals with unparalleled experience in elite gymnastics, this book covers all the key aspects of caring for gymnasts, minimizing the unique risks these athletes face, and treating injuries when they happen. The book is organized into 4 sections covering: The evolution of gymnastics Growth and development Training and performance Sports medicine Individual chapters cover key topics such as energy needs and body weight management; biomechanics; psychology; the epidemiology of gymnastic injuries; treatment and rehabilitation of common injuries; injury prevention; and more. Endorsed by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), no other book offers such an in-depth look at the unique considerations and challenges that affect the growth, performance, training, and medical care of athletes in this demanding sport.

Spotting and securing are two essential safety constituents when it comes to teaching and training gymnastics. Teaching Children's Gymnastics takes a close look at what spotting and securing really means and how they must be done. It is a new, revolutionary teaching idea which gets even the youngest children to learn how to spot each other safely. Containing step-by-step instructions for teaching children to spot each other, as well as hundreds of examples and suggestions for interactive and spotting gymnastic exercises, Teaching Children's Gymnastics is an invaluable resource for all teachers, coaches, adventure playground leaders and others who work with children.