International Gymnast

Edited by Dwight Normile

FORCE always acts in the precise straight-line direction in which it is applied. Consequently, any body in motion as a result of applied force tends to travel its same straight-line path, and accelerates at a rate proportional to that force’s magnitude. The only factor which can alter this is the introduction of one or more additional forces.

During the descent phase of the overgrip giant, the force of gravity tends to accelerate the performer’s mass downward in a straight line. The body’s mass center, however, does not travel straight downward, but instead, circles relative to its fixed axis (bar).

The action of the gymnast pulling against the bar causes a simultaneous reaction of the bar pulling against the gymnast. Because this action-reaction is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, the effects would seem to cancel out. Yet this is not the case, for the action of the gymnast pulling against the bar cannot possibly move the apparatus. However, the reaction of the bar pulling against the gymnast does possess sufficient magnitude to produce continuous change in direction of the gymnast’s light mass. The observed effect of this action-reaction scenario is a circular pattern of the total body unit about the bar.

ILLUSTRATION: JAMES STEPHENSON

Tangent-release: If the gymnast were to release her hand-grasp at any time while circling about the bar, this mutual force relationship would cease to exist, and her body would be projected away from the bar in a straight-line at an angle perpendicular to its radius of rotation. Once airborne, the body’s mass center would then travel a perfectly regular, curved path (parabolic trajectory). This is precisely what occurs in the double-flyaway dismount shown in the illustration at right.

Effective use of this principle requires a clear understanding of the intended direction and objective of the skill’s airborne phase, so the release can be timed accordingly.

Adapted from “Championship Gymnastics” by Gerald S. George, Ph.D. For more information, visit www.winninggymnastics.com.

When a gymnast releases the bar, her center of mass will be projected at a right angle to its radius, and then follow a parabolic trajectory.

Exceptions to the parabolic trajectory outcome: If the gymnast lets go at the 3 o’clock or 9 o’clock position, her body would be projected either straight up or straight down.