Trampoline gymnastics, commonly referred to as trampolining, is an Olympic sport and a popular part of acrobatic gymnastic training. If you are signing up your teens or children for a class, then this will likely be a part of their training. Below, learn more information about this training regime and competitive sport.

What Trampoline Gymnastics Entails 

This sport involves performing acrobatics while jumping on a trampoline. There are two main types, compulsory and voluntary. In a compulsory routine, the gymnast follows a pre-set combination of moves. In a voluntary routine, they can freestyle or choose their own combination of moves.

How It’s Done

Each routine starts and ends on the feet. For each move within the routine, the acrobat may take off and land on their feet, front, or back. The moves are a combination of somersaulting and twisting. There are many different combinations out there, each with their own names. For example, a “Dolphin” starts on the back and ends with a front somersault. 

There are also three basic shapes that the gymnast may keep while performing each move. The tuck keeps the knees closely clasped to the chest with the hands. The pike keeps the hands touching by the feet, while both the arms and legs are out straight in front of them. The straight move keeps the body aligned with the legs together, toes pointed, and arms down by the side.

Competitive vs. Noncompetitive

In the competitive sport, scoring is conducted in three categories. The “Difficulty” category scores how many tricks are done, and how difficult they are, before landing. The “Execution” part scores how well the tricks were done. The “Time of Flight” scores how long the athlete is in the air. As a result, a competitive trampolining gymnast will focus on getting as much height as possible while maintaining control. They will want to perform as many difficult combinations as possible with perfect form. It may be done as an individual, or more than one gymnast performing synchronized motions. 

Every gymnastic group trains on the trampoline, even if they are not competing in trampolining itself. This is because it helps them master their reaction time and aerial awareness while having a safety net. By becoming confident in the air and while in motion, a gymnast can succeed in any style of competition. 

IMPACT Gymnastics Academy teaches trampoline gymnastics to their students in Phoenix, AZ. Children of all ages, genders, and abilities are welcome to practice at the gymnastics center. Their Olympic-class coaching and state-of-the-art equipment will ensure your young one gets the finest gymnastic training. In addition to their variety of classes, they provide supervised open gym time to enjoy the space. Learn more information on their website and call (602) 870-7574 with any questions.