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Gym Coach, Vol 1, March 1, 2007: Pages 1-4

 

Developing the headspring

Valentin  Uzunov


ABSTRACT

The headspring is recognized by many coaches as a prerequisite skill to the progression of flysprings and handsprings. The headspring has generally been incorporated into the MAG compulsory levels programs of countries like the United States, New Zealand, and Australia. However a good understanding and execution of the headspring can help speed up the teaching and learning of the more advanced front accelerator skills like handsprings and flysprings for both, boys and girls. The method presented in this article is considered to be applicable for gymnasts of all ages and levels due to its simplicity and progressional teaching. The method used breaks down the headspring into 3 critical phases that are taught simultaneously, before combined into the full skill. Successful execution of the actual headspring is dependent on the mastery of each crucial phase and their coordination during the full skill. The simplicity and progressive approach to the teaching of the headspring used in this article can be used in recreational and competitive classes. Because this skill is considered as fairly easy all coaches should start their young athletes on headsprings as a developmental step before teaching the handspring and flyspring.

 

Key Words: front accelerator, basic tumbling, handspring, flyspring, handspring

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