Gymnastic Classes

Elements of dance steps, jumps and leaps, pivots and turns, balances, body waves and body bends are the listed essentials. They must be performed with control, lightness, elevation, suppleness and full extension as well as elegance and poise. Whilst there are specific named movements which are recognizable in rhythmic gymnastics (the split leap, the arabesque and the pivot turn, for example) there are endless other movement possibilities within the categories listed, so allowing much freedom for expression and room for originality and invention. The movement combination possible between body and apparatus are seemingly infinite, and the creation of new and unusual movement patterns is both exciting and challenging for the gymnast and for the coach. The recognized pivot turn requires tension and leg strength as with the leaps plus good balance. It is essential that the body stays upright with the weight over the supporting leg; otherwise the gymnast will not maintain balance throughout …

Advancement in the sport depends solely on how well the basics are mastered. Similar to a pyramid, the larger a base of support (basics), the higher the pyramid will stand (ultimate goal level). The following criterion helps decide the placement of each gymnast: Physical Preparedness An assessment is made of the gymnasts strength, flexibility, endurance, agility, quickness, and suppleness. Emotional and Psychological Readiness of the Gymnast These attributes are observable in a subjective way, as opposed to an objective manner. They readily indicate the gymnasts ability to overcome reasonable fears, to make quick, yet sound judgments, plus self-motivation, and dedication to achieving their gymnastic goals. Present Gymnastics Skill Level By asking the gymnast to have acquired the skills needed in the next level routines before being considered to move up, the gymnastics skills and routine readiness for the coming competitive season can be projected. By combining all of the above fact …

Classical Dressage The Philosophy of Ease Vol. 2 The School of Gymnastics In the second part of this schooling series, Philippe Karl presents additional gymnastic exercises. He also introduces the double bridle as an important aid for advanced gymnastic exercises. Through combined lateral work, shoulder-in, counter shoulder-in, travers and renvers, the balance, suppleness and mobility of the horse are trained and established, resulting in a straight horse or a ’saddle horse’. Jumping on the lunge and under the rider is part of the basic training of a horse, as well as flying changes in the canter, which every horse can learn if prepared and trained correctly. Phillipe Karl was a member of the famous “Cadre Noir” in France for 13 years. His riding technique is a feast for the eyes. He is also well-known worldwide as a riding instructor, trainer and author. His impressive and perfect classical dressage presentations are treasured all over Europe. In clinics and courses, he presents the knowledge and the aesthetics of the old advanced riders, adapted to modern times.
Customer Review: Great second volume of his training methods
In Phillipe Karl’s second volume, he demonstrates on several horses his “Legerete” or Philosophy of Ease in Gymnastics. In this lecture, Karl demonstrates the training of the horse and an introduction in the double bridle. He also demonstrates working the horse on the ground through the longing and jumping. In the mounted work, he demonstrates various patterns using shoulder in, counter shoulder in, haunches in (travers) and renvers on the circles and figure 8’s and also speaks about the riders seat and balance as well as the horse’s. The horse is also taught these moves along a straight line.