Gymnastics is a physically demanding sport that offers multiple benefits to teens, from building confidence to staying active and healthy. Like any sport, it comes with the potential for injury, especially those caused by overuse or straining during weight-bearing moves. The following are some tips to help prevent injuries as you master gymnastics.

How to Reduce Your Chance of Gymnastics Injuries

1. Focus on One Sport at a Time

While it’s encouraged to try different sports throughout the year to prevent excessive wear and overuse injuries, you shouldn’t try to do multiple sports at the same time. Focus on one to minimize strain and the risk of injuries from overuse. This also lets you dedicate enough time to practicing moves and routines, so you’re more prepared for lessons and events. 

2. Don’t Tough It Out

When you have something to prove and a team counting on you, it can be hard to back away from the next routine, even if you’re hurt. However, continuing to perform while injured can worsen the injury, impacting your ability to perform in the future, and it can cause your movements to be off as you compensate for it, leading to further accidents. If you feel pain, stop performing and get checked out by your doctor so you can begin healing, maximizing the chance of returning to your full abilities.

3. Warm Up Before Practice & Events

Complete a warmup routine before practices, lessons, and events. Warmups slowly increase your heart rate and the blood flow to your muscles and joints, reducing tension, supplying oxygen, and preparing them to work. This routine is crucial for minimizing the risk of injuries, as it can prevent overuse and strain injuries like pulled muscles.

4. Check Equipment Before Starting

Your environment is another crucial factor in injury prevention. Inspect all your equipment, ensuring it’s stable and sufficiently padded to provide enough cushion for falls and landings. If an item is wobbly or visibly damaged, don’t use it. You should also have spotters watching you each time you try moves that you’re still practicing or while doing complex routines.

Having skilled coaches to guide you can also help reduce injuries, as they’ll ensure you’re following safe practices and techniques. Legacy Gymnastics in Eden Prairie, MN, has trained young gymnasts for over a decade, with USAG-certified coaches and a 32,000 sq. ft. facility. Visit them online for details on their high school classes, or call (952) 746-8183 to enroll.