Practices

     As most gymnasts know, going to practice is crucial to success as a competitive gymnast. You need to make sure that you are at practice on time and you do your best. Remember the saying: "Practice like you play". It is the total truth. If you don't practice like you compete, then once you are in a competition you are going to crack under the pressure of all of the sudden having to do your best. Doing your best in practice also helps you to set a standard not only for yourself but for the entire team. When you do your absolute best everyday, then the rest of the team will strive to be like you. As you are (in competition) one of their competitors. As your team tries to get stronger so that they can beat you, you will start to notice that you are winning more and more team awards. See how just giving it your all individually can bring up the entire team? While you are at practice make sure that you are also doing lot's of drills and conditioning. These will help to improve your gymnastics by making you stronger. Here's a little shocking trivia: gymnastics is the #1 most dangerous sport in the entire world according to the ASA (American Sports Association). In spite of these statistics, there are quite a few things you can do to narrow your odds of getting hurt. Practice hard, eat well, exercise even on the days you do not have practice, keep moving, buy a fitbit, condition every night and every morning EVEN on gymnastics days. Always remember: the stronger you are, the less likely you are to get hurt. If you are falling, make sure to never put your hands down. I'm sure that you have been taught this, I just want to make sure that all gymnasts know this. I have had so many teammates end their careers on the bad note of a broken wrist that is now permanently damaged due to a silly mistake like that. Just to re-iderate: make sure that you are showing up to practices on time everyday. Work hard, listen to your coach, cheer on your teammates, and have fun. 

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