So we all know that when you absolutely love gymnastics you find yourself throwing tricks everywhere. You could be walking down the street and want to throw a cartwheel or see a low hanging branch and want to do a pull over. While doing tricks outside of the gymnastics room is all in good fun, it can also be dangerous if we aren’t careful.
Safety in gymnastics is very important, especially since gymnastics is one of the most dangerous sports around. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when doing gymnastics no matter where you are!
Safe Space:
When doing gymnastics, we have to make sure we have plenty of space. There have been numerous times when I have seen people do a trick without looking around them and end up kicking someone. Before you do a trick make sure you take a second to look around and make sure the space is clear. It is your responsibility to makes sure you are not putting others in danger while doing your tricks.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings:
The gymnastics room can get a little hectic at times, so it is very important to be aware of what is going on around you. For example, before you walk across the gymnastics floor, check to make sure there aren’t any girls tumbling across the floor. Getting in the way of tumbling can be very dangerous for both parties, so it is best to avoid a collision before it happens. Being aware of your surroundings is also important when outside of the gym. For example, if you are planning to do handstands on the grass make sure the area is clear of rocks or branches in case you fall.
Trampolines:
Trampolines are often a gymnast’s favorite way to work on skills outside of the gym. However, they are one of the most dangerous apparatuses. A great deal of injuries can happen while using a trampoline. Some ways to reduce the risk of injury are to limit the number of people on the trampoline at one time, beware of double bouncing, and know how to control your landings.
Preparation for Trick:
It is not uncommon for a gymnast to want to show off their tricks, however if they have not had enough practice it can be dangerous. Before you throw a trick outside the gym make sure you have had plenty of practice and are able to do it by yourself.
Follow Rules:
Rules are in place to keep you safe. The gymnastics room has rules to make sure everyone can practice gymnastics in a safe environment. Playgrounds and schools have rules for the same purpose. If we all follow the rules we can eliminate the chance of injuries.
If we follow these safety tips, we can ensure everyone’s safety!