Quick Tip: 8 counts

Hi All,

Today I am going to share with you one of the things I do with gymnasts of ALL levels. From rec gymnasts up through optionals this is one of those things that I think should be in everyones warm-up. It’s generally 4 eight-counts in my warm-up (sometimes 2 for rec), but it can make a world of difference.

I have gymnasts do 8 counts of lunge finishes. The first 2 counts are standing nicely, the second 2 counts are stepping back to a lunge, third 2 counts are finishing, and finally they finish back where they started. They will then repeat this process on the other leg. Four 8 counts means that they do this twice on each leg. This is a great time to go over/emphasize lunge positions. Making sure that back heels are down, backs/chests/shoulders are how you want them to be, remind children of the importance of their fingers etc.

Add it to your warm-up, and be picky about how you want them to do this. If they are doing this every day, whatever they are doing will become muscle memory.