The Science of Gymnastics »

The Science of Gymnastics is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the fundamental physiological, biomechanical and psychological principles underpinning this most demanding of sports.

Drawing on cutting edge scientific research, and including contributions from leading international sport scientists and experienced coaches, the book represents an important link between theory and performance. With useful summaries, data and review questions included throughout, the book examines every key aspect of gymnastic training and performance, including:

• energetic, physical and physiological assessment


• training principles


• diet, nutrition and supplementation


• growth and development issues


• kinetics and kinematics


• angular and linear motion


• angular momentum


• stress, anxiety and coping


• motivation and goal setting


• mental skills training for practice and competition


• the psychology of learning and performance.

In a concluding section the authors reflect on how fundamental scientific components (physiology, biomechanics and psychology) interact to enhance gymnastic performance, helping students to develop a better understanding of the relationship between sport science and sporting performance. The Science of Gymnastics is essential reading for all students, coaches and researchers with an interest in gymnastics or applied sport science.

Introduction Part 1: Applied Physiology of Gymnastics 1. Energetics of Gymnastics 2. Fitness Model of High Level Gymnasts 3. Training Principles in Gymnastics 4. Planning and Periodisation in Gymnastics 5. Physical Preparation 6. Specific Physical and Physiological Assessment of Gymnasts 7. Growth, Sexual Developmental and Hormonal Regulations in Relation to Fitness Levels in Gymnastics 8. Diet, Nutrition and Supplementation in Gymnastics 9. Investigations in Rhythmic Gymnastics Part 2: Applied Biomechanics in Gymnastics 10. Anthropometry and Biomechanical Models in Gymnastics 11. Linear Kinematics in Gymnastics (Description of Motion) 12. Angular Kinematics in Gymnastics 13. Linear Kinetics in Gymnastics (Underlying Causes of Motion) 14. Angular Kinetics in Gymnastics 15. Advanced Specific Examples from each Event Part 3: Applied Psychology in Gymnastics 16. Stress, Anxiety and Coping in Gymnastics 17. Personality and Motivation in Gymnastics 18. Goal Setting in Gymnastics 19. Mental Imagery in Gymnastics 20. Self Image and Self Confidence in Gymnastics 21. Psychology of Learning and Performance in Gymnastics 22. Psychological Issues Encountering Performance Enhancement Part 4: Interaction Between Physiological, Biomechanical and Psychological Aspects of Gymnastics Performance