Usefulness and metabolic implications of a 60-second repeated jumps test as a predictor of acrobatic jumping performance in gymnasts

The Influence of Competitive Level on Stretch-Shortening Cycle Function in Young Female Gymnasts

This cross-sectional study investigated how stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) function and kinetic variables differed between young female gymnasts of varying competitive levels. Drop jump (DJ) force−time profiles were examined in 118 female gymnasts, sub-divided by competitive level (n = 21 recreational, n = 41 regional and n = 50 elite). DJ force−time data were analyzed to calculate performance and kinetic variables. Participants’ SSC function was categorized as poor, moderate, or good, depending on the presence of an impact peak and spring-like behavior. A high proportion of gymnasts across each group were categorized as having “good” or “moderate” SSC function (i.e., >94.8%), with a trend of increasingly better SSC function observed with competitive level. Significant differences in reactive strength index, contact time, time of landing peak force, relative propulsive peak force, impulse, and ratio of braking: propulsive impulse were found between the elite and recreational group (p < 0.05). While SSC function was generally good to moderate, elite gymnasts had a more desirable kinetic jump-landing strategy than recreational level gymnasts. Drop jump kinetic variables appear to distinguish between elite and recreational gymnasts but not between regional standard gymnasts. Practitioners should consider the kinetic profile of gymnasts when benchmarking and setting training objectives.

Physiological Pattern Changes in Response to a Simulated Competition in Elite Women's Artistic Gymnasts

Isacco, L, Ennequin, G, Cassirame, J, and Tordi, N. Physiological pattern changes in response to a simulated competition in elite women's artistic gymnasts. J Strength Cond Res 33(10): 2768-2777, 2019-The outstanding progress in women's artistic gymnastics in recent decades has led to increased technical and physiological demands. The aim of this study was to investigate (a) the physiological demands of elite French gymnasts and (b) the impact of a competitive routine on physiological pattern changes. Fourteen French elite female gymnasts performed anthropometric measurements, physical fitness tests, and a simulated 4-event competition. Heart rate (HR) was continuously recorded throughout the duration of the simulated competition. Blood lactate concentrations were assessed at rest, before the beginning and at 2, 4, and 10 minutes after completion of the routine on each apparatus. Isometric handgrip strength and anaerobic endurance and power were assessed during the simulated competition. The highest values of HR and blood lactate concentrations were reached during the floor and uneven bar exercises. Blood lactate concentrations and HR kinetics were apparatus dependent and values remained significantly increased at 10 minutes of recovery compared with resting data. Anaerobic endurance and power decreased significantly as the competition progressed (p < 0.001). The present results show specifically cardiorespiratory and anaerobic apparatus-dependent responses throughout a simulated competition. Recovery approaches seem relevant to prevent and minimize fatigue and optimize performance in these athletes.