Just Because A Gymnast Doesn’t Have Pain, Doesn’t Mean There Isn’t A Problem

This week I wanted to share an injury situation that recently came up with one of our gymnasts, and touch on some areas I’ve been thinking on the last few months. I really think people in gymnastics would benefit from hearing and thinking about her story. Don’t worry, both her mother and her said it was okay if I posted about it. After discussing it with them they agreed it was important information to share for other gymnasts and coaches out there. The situation is certainly a bummer as I will talk about, but I think there are some larger concepts behind the story that a lot of coaches/gymnasts/parents/medical professionals could learn from to help other gymnasts out there. I had another post lined up for this week but I thought this one was more important to get out. So, I did a little late night 2 am writing session (thank you Dunkin Donuts) and put this together for and early post this week.

Pike Stretches in Gymnastics: What Muscles You May Be Actually Targeting

For this post I wanted to continue on the lower back flexibility path from last week, and discuss another scenario I’ve seen many times when working with gymnasts. Although this is specific to gymnasts, the information has carry over to anyone who is an active person. Many people who are runners, competitive athletes, or recreational exercisers also struggle with this area. Chronic tightness of the lower leg structures, like the hamstrings and calves, without proper mobilization and stretching may lead to a variety of injuries over time.