Gymnastics—like diving and figure skating—is an Olympic sport where artistry and aesthetics are intertwined with athleticism. As?Simone Biles?and her teammates catapult and contort their bodies this month in Paris, they’ll be doing so in leotards embellished with roughly 10,000 diamond-shaped Swarovski crystals. (That’s nearly 2,000 more than Team USA wore back in Tokyo in 2021.) Wearing the uniforms to compete is the last step in a process that took four years and more than 50 people to complete. For Jeanne Diaz, GK Elite’s director of design, and Erica Schnebel, the company’s director of marketing, watching the gymnasts unbox their leotards is a powerful moment. “I'm getting chills still thinking about it,” Schnebel tells SELF. Diaz shares that each leotard is crafted, first and foremost, with functionality in mind, which starts with intel from the experts themselves. GK Elite polls USA Gymnastics members on what features—from necklines to fabrics to the amount of bling—they’ve most enjoyed, or perhaps disliked, in previous uniforms. Another way to ensure the leotards help, rather than hinder, performance? They’re each custom-made. Each garment is laser-cut for super precise measurements. (Basically, they’re meant to feel like a second skin.) Each piece moves through 30 departments —from creative ideation to sewing to stone placement. As many crystals are too large (or the design too intricate) to be embellished by machine, Kira Feick, GK Elite’s laser jewel supervisor, hand-places each and every gem. “Our athletes always tell us that more is more with crystal usage,” Diaz says. To read more about how they get almost one pound of gems on?Team USA’s leotards—and whether the weight ever hinders performance—tap here: https://lnkd.in/eyY9Vmpr
SELF Magazine的动态
最相关的动态
-
Olympic Inventions: The Pommel Horse For gymnastics fans, we are excited about the prospects for gold for our US Olympic Team. One of the most difficult apparatuses on the men’s side is the pommel horse.?The history of this equipment traces back to 315 BC when Alexander the Great and his troops used this to practice mounting Equus Caballus (horse). The earliest versions were simple wooden structures modeled after the back of the horse where the rider would sit.?The soldiers practiced mounting and dismounting so they could get ready for battle.?They didn’t have handles, or pommels, like today’s equipment. The pommel horse became popular again in the 17th century when knights practiced battle and jousting.?Friedrich Jahn, a German and former member of the Prussian military revived the use of the pommel horse in the 19th century and is regarded as the father of modern gymnastics. The pommel horse mimicked the animal’s uneven planes and curves.?The asymmetrical, sloping shape made it harder for gymnasts to wander across the horse.?Pommels were added to help the athlete move more easily across the horse. The US introduced the modern pommel horse in 1948 and solidified the standard for this equipment.?The 63” symmetrical horse was certified by the International Gymnastic Federation in 1956. The pommels are made of steel, covered in leather, and fastened to the horse using a brass base. Fusion provides engineering and scientific design analysis and support for your most pressing issues. Do you have an issue you need addressed? Call us! Image by?efes?from?Pixabay
-
-
Why Young Gymnasts Appear Fearless Young gymnasts often seem fearless despite the risks associated with their sport for several key reasons: Developmental Factors Young gymnasts typically have a higher strength-to-weight ratio, which allows them to perform complex acrobatic moves more easily. This physical advantage, combined with their lighter body weight, makes them more capable of executing difficult maneuvers without the same level of fear that older athletes might experience. Psychological Aspects At a young age, children may not fully comprehend the potential consequences of their actions, such as the risk of injury. This lack of awareness can contribute to a sense of fearlessness. Additionally, younger gymnasts may not have experienced significant injuries yet, which can also contribute to their confidence. Training Environment Gymnastics training often starts at a very young age, and the environment is designed to build skills progressively. Coaches are trained to minimize risks through proper technique, safety equipment, and structured progressions. This controlled environment can instill confidence in young gymnasts, making them feel secure while performing challenging skills. Cultural and Social Influences The culture within gymnastics often emphasizes toughness and resilience. Young gymnasts may be influenced by this ethos, feeling pressure to perform despite the risks. This culture can sometimes lead to a mindset where playing through pain or fear is normalized. Perception of Risk As gymnasts grow older and gain more experience, their perception of risk may change. They might become more cautious as they understand the potential for injury or as they experience injuries themselves. However, many young gymnasts start with a natural inclination towards fearlessness, which can change over time based on their experiences. Injury Statistics The accident rate in gymnastics varies depending on the level of participation and the specific population being studied. Here are some key statistics regarding gymnastics-related injuries: ? General Injury Rates: Approximately 4.8 injuries per 1,000 athlete-exposures. ? Youth Gymnastics: In the United States, an estimated 72,542 youth gymnastics-related injuries are reported annually in emergency departments. ? Swedish Gymnastics: The injury incidence is reported as 5.2 injuries per 1,000 gymnast years. ? Common Injuries: Lower extremity injuries, such as ankle sprains, are prevalent, accounting for 50-66% of all gymnastics injuries. These statistics highlight the inherent risks associated with gymnastics, emphasizing the importance of proper training, safety measures, and injury prevention strategies to mitigate these risks. #FearlessGymnasts #YouthSports #GymnasticsSafety #InjuryPrevention #GymnasticsCulture #YoungAthletes
-
-
? I provide marketing, technology, and AI training solutions that help printers sell more printing. ?
?? Ever wondered about the more unusual events in Olympic history? ?? The Olympics have seen a variety of unique and quirky events over the years. Here's a fascinating look at some of the most interesting ones that have graced the Games: 1???Tug of War: This event was part of the Olympics from 1900 to 1920. Teams competed to pull the opposing team across a line in a test of strength. 2???Plunge for Distance: Featured in the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, this event involved divers plunging into a pool and remaining motionless to see how far they could drift without using their limbs. 3???Live Pigeon Shooting: In the 1900 Paris Olympics, live pigeons were used as targets in a shooting event. This was the only time live animals were used, and the event was replaced by clay pigeon shooting in subsequent Games. 4???Rope Climbing: Included in the gymnastics program from 1896 to 1932, athletes climbed a suspended rope using only their hands. The event tested upper body strength and technique. 5???Solo Synchronized Swimming: This paradoxically named event was included in the 1984, 1988, and 1992 Olympics. Swimmers performed routines alone, set to music, demonstrating their synchronization with the rhythm. 6???Art Competitions: From 1912 to 1948, the Olympics included art competitions in categories like painting, sculpture, literature, architecture, and music. Medals were awarded for works inspired by sport. 7???One-Handed Weightlifting: In the 1896 Olympics, athletes competed in weightlifting using only one hand, testing both strength and balance. 8???Motorboating: The 1908 London Olympics featured motorboat racing. The event was affected by rough weather, and it did not return in future Games. 9???Swimming Obstacle Race: In the 1900 Paris Olympics, swimmers had to navigate a 200-meter course that included climbing over poles and boats and swimming under them. ?? Which of these events would you like to see returned to the Olympic competitions? Let me know in the comments! ?? #Olympics #UnusualEvents #History
-
--- Trends in Gymnastics: Embracing Innovation and Evolutio??♀??? As a gymnastics coach, I am always excited to witness the continuous evolution and innovation in the world of gymnastics. The sport that captivates us with its grace, strength, and precision is constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons. Let's delve into some of the recent trends and developments that are shaping the future of gymnastics: 1. **Advanced Techniques**: Athletes and coaches are constantly exploring new and advanced techniques to enhance performance and push the limits of what is possible in gymnastics. From intricate acrobatic sequences to gravity-defying aerial maneuvers, gymnasts are redefining the artistry and athleticism of the sport. 2. **Equipment Innovation**: The development of cutting-edge equipment, such as state-of-the-art mats, bars, beams, and vaults, is revolutionizing the training and competition experience for gymnasts. These innovations not only prioritize safety but also enable athletes to unleash their full potential and creativity. 3. **Training Methods**: In the pursuit of excellence, coaches are adopting innovative training methods that blend traditional practices with modern sports science principles. From personalized conditioning programs to data-driven performance analysis, gymnasts are benefiting from a holistic approach to training that optimizes their physical and mental capabilities. 4. **Inclusivity and Diversity**: The gymnastics community is embracing inclusivity and diversity like never before, welcoming athletes from diverse backgrounds and promoting representation across all levels of the sport. This commitment to inclusivity is fostering a more welcoming and supportive environment for gymnasts of all ages, abilities, and identities. 5. **Social Media Influence**: The rise of social media platforms has opened up new avenues for gymnasts to showcase their skills, share their journey, and connect with fans worldwide. Social media influencers are playing a significant role in popularizing gymnastics and inspiring the next generation of athletes to pursue their dreams. As we navigate these exciting trends and developments in gymnastics, let's continue to uphold the values of dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship that define our beloved sport. Together, we can inspire and empower gymnasts to reach new heights of excellence and celebrate the beauty of gymnastics in all its forms. Keep flipping, soaring, and shining bright in the world of gymnastics! ?? #Gymnastics #Innovation #Evolution #Trends ---
-
What happens if a mentor and follower run into one other outside of their common area of expertise? Well, feelings start to surface. Gabby Douglas and Shilese Jones are currently experiencing that kind of thing after USA Gymnastics' Core Hydration Classic. In their respective fields, both gymnasts embody achievement, and their remarkable narratives are replete with motivation, optimism, and resilience. But why are they suddenly distancing themselves from one another? #USsports #Paris2024 #Olympics #CoreHydration #Gymnastics https://lnkd.in/dMYuxrd9
Fresh Plot Involving Gabby Douglas Surfaces in Gymnastics Community as Shilese Jones Slams After Core Hydration Classic
essentiallysports.com
-
Figure Skating has taught me perseverance. It's a sport where you will fall, sometimes in a packed arena, but you have to get back up and keep going. The difficulty of the sport is making things look effortless when it's not. it takes years of on ice practice to master skills. You have to match your on ice time with off ice training. Off ice training covers cardio, flexibility, balance, strength, explosivity, and getting used to your whole body spinning.
The Beauty of Perseverance
teaandinfamy.substack.com
-
?? Elevate Your Gymnastics Performance with the WT9011DCL Sensor by Witmotion! ?? Hey, athletes and fitness enthusiasts! ?? Are you ready to revolutionize your gymnastics training with cutting-edge technology? Introducing the WT9011DCL Sensor by Witmotion – your ultimate ally in mastering every flip, twist, and leap! ?? ?? Precision Meets Innovation Imagine having a coach's eye for detail, but in a compact, high-tech device. The WT9011DCL Sensor doesn't just track your movements; it analyzes and optimizes them. Whether you're perfecting your somersault or working on that elusive dismount, this sensor captures every nuance of your performance. ?? ?? Data-Driven Progress Get instant feedback on speed, acceleration, and even the intricacies of your form. The WT9011DCL is designed to help you understand your strengths and pinpoint areas for improvement. With detailed analytics at your fingertips, you can tailor your workouts for maximum efficiency and growth. ?? ?? Train Smarter, Not Harder Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to informed training. This sensor integrates seamlessly with your training routine, offering insights that traditional methods can't match. Use it during practice sessions to fine-tune your skills or review your performance post-training for a deeper understanding of your progress. ?? ?? Elevate Your Skills to New Heights Take your gymnastics journey to the next level. The WT9011DCL Sensor by Witmotion isn't just about tracking; it's about transforming your potential into reality. Watch as your skills soar, backed by the unparalleled precision and insight of this state-of-the-art technology. ?? Don't just train harder – train smarter. Click the link in the description to learn more about the WT9011DCL Sensor and start your journey to gymnastics excellence today! ?? #Witmotion #Gymnastics #PerformanceTracking #AthleticInnovation #TrainSmarter
-
UX & Accessible Designer | Making businesses more profitable & compliant | Accessible Design Lead, Trainer & Consultant | Introverted public speaker | Educator & constant learner in accessible UX & UI practices |
We're only ever temporarily abled. Guess who's now a living example? Last Sunday, I went skating under the brilliant autumn sun —something to lift the spirits in what’s been a tough stretch recently. I’m pretty good on wheels (inline skates) and was with other excellent skaters. But, as it turns out, no amount of skill prevents accidents. The short version: I broke two fingers on my right hand. As it turns out, that means plaster and immobilisation almost up to the elbow. I have three free fingers, but I’m supposed to keep them still because one fracture is serious and might need surgery if I’m not careful. Things that are hard to do one-handed (especially with your non-dominant hand) when you live alone: ... Kinda everything, to be honest. Including typing this post. The world, I’m reminded, is definitely made for the fully abled. Today, I'm assessing whether I can use my usual tools and meet my current commitments. But you know what? I’ll be fine in a month. I’m privileged and lucky that this is temporary. I'll be back on my skates in a mere 4 weeks. This experience only makes my commitment to accessibility even stronger. For now, off I go to figure out how to keep working on my Get it Seen masterclass slides and exercises—even with my usual "drag and drop" hand out of commission. Let's rid the web of bad contrast, and poor type choices, once and for all! Link to join in comments (soz, LinkedIn is being really mean to my reach recently, so I'm checking whether no links helps) #a11y #accessibility Image description: My feet clad in my magic boots aka my skates, seen from above. The skates are black freestyle skates with white details, the floor is stone and tiles. You can see a portion of my skating pants, light green and with visible mending, at the top of the photo.
-
