Gymnastics help needed?

Question

This may sound dumb,but I need help.
I am a college student and have to write a paper on a spor,so I chose gymnastics.
I need some answers from people who HONESTLY participate in gymnastics...PLEASE HELP!
I just have a few ?'s
1) How often do you work out
2) How many hours a day?
3) what type of workout do you do?
4) Do you have a special diet you follow?, if so, what is it?
I am going to school for massage therapy and we are doing sports massage right now, so I just need to know anything and everything about gymnastics traing.
Thanks for the help.

Answer 1

I am a former gymnast, and currently coach girls and judge boys.

My beginning level competitive girls work out 3 days a week for 3 hours each day. My higher level girls work out 5 days a week for 3 hours each day. Depends on level and coach. You may see girls at the upper eschelon working out twice a day for 6 or 7 days a week (approximately 35 hours a week). NCAA rules limit the time collegiate athletes train to 20 hours in the gym, but most collegiate athletes will work out additional time on a treadmill, do aerobics, or weight train.

A normal work-out consists of a warm-up with an aerobic phase and stretching. They will then train 2 to 4 events and then end with conditioning and/or dance.

My younger girls don't have a specialized diet. I try to teach them to make food choices, but I don't force them to eat specific things or weigh in. At the higher levels, weigh ins are routine.

You might want to check out USA Gymnastics for their program information. You can also contact a local club and get more information from the coaches.

www.usa-gymnastics.org