Stage One gymnastics is an introductory stage, but it could possibly be one of the most important stages in a gymnast's career. During Stage One classes, gymnasts are introduced to the basic movements that lay the foundation for the mastery of more advanced stunts, and they learn about the strength and postures necessary to advance. Most Stage One students are very young, but aspiring gymnasts of any age must learn these lessons before moving on.
Body Positioning
Correct positioning is so important to gymnastics that it is the first area new gymnasts concentrate on. Students must master positioning so it comes naturally to them and future efforts can concentrate on propulsion and technique. Teach students to straddle-sit, V-sit, and transition back and forth between the two. Have contests to see who can form the most shapes with their bodies by arching and scooping, extending and contracting. Challenge the students to move around the room with as much of their bodies touching the floor as possible, then with as much of their bodies in the air as possible. Do as many positioning moves as possible in front of the mirror so students can connect the "feel" of each position with the look.
Floor Exercises
Students must master the forward and backward roll -- an effective drill is to line them up horizontally along a mat and have them forward roll to one side, then backward roll to the other side, repeating until they are comfortable with being upside down. To reinforce control of the forward roll, use a circular mat as a track for them to roll around in a line. If students are having trouble getting over with either roll, use a wedge mat to provide an extra boost. Have height and distance jumping contests on a spring mat to teach the students about the propulsion necessary for future moves; younger students will be delighted at the height they can achieve on the spring mat. Cartwheels should be spotted at first until each student is able to scissor the legs over instead of whipping them around the side. If a student consistently has a difficult time with cartwheels, have her start on the opposite foot -- it may come more naturally.
Apparatus
Apparatus work is very basic at Stage One and is focused on teaching the purpose and "feeling" of each piece of equipment. Gymnasts at this stage should only hang from the uneven bars so they get used to bearing their body weight with their arms and shoulders. Allow them to hang from both bars to experience the difference in height. Use the low foam beam for a balance beam introduction -- the students should be able to walk forward and backward and turn on two feet at the ends. Races on the foam beam can safely bring out each student's competitive nature and force them to concentrate on balance. Encourage parents to place a 4-inch-wide piece of duct tape on the floor at home to allow the student to practice walking in a straight line.
Additional Balance Training
Without separate balance training, students may never fully master the beam. Line the students up for balancing contests in different positions. Have them balance on one foot with the other leg pointed in front or in back, have them balance in an inverted pike position with one hand or one leg lifted, then have them lift both a hand and a leg. If they progress quickly, move on to side planks and one-legged squats. Balance contests tend to be popular with younger gymnasts. Keep it fun but work to keep them focused on the intent of the exercise.
