- Jan 21, 2007
- 4,872
- 6,137
There is a gymnast in a rec class at my gym who only has one hand. Two arms, but one arm does not have a hand.
However, she looks to be extremely talented, and I can't help thinking that she could still do some things at the competitive level.
SO I have several questions.
First, does anybody have any experience with kids like this? Any advice on how I might be able to modify her training?
Second, what are the technical implications? I assume she wouldn't be able to compete bars, but what about floor, vault, and beam? Any ideas for ways to modify the progressions for cartwheels, walkovers, etc?
Third, what are the implications as far as injuries? Obviously, she'll be taking a lot of stress on one wrist and shoulder, and likely end up building up far more strength on one side than the other. Is this likely to lead to long-term health issues if she continues in gymnastics?
However, she looks to be extremely talented, and I can't help thinking that she could still do some things at the competitive level.
SO I have several questions.
First, does anybody have any experience with kids like this? Any advice on how I might be able to modify her training?
Second, what are the technical implications? I assume she wouldn't be able to compete bars, but what about floor, vault, and beam? Any ideas for ways to modify the progressions for cartwheels, walkovers, etc?
Third, what are the implications as far as injuries? Obviously, she'll be taking a lot of stress on one wrist and shoulder, and likely end up building up far more strength on one side than the other. Is this likely to lead to long-term health issues if she continues in gymnastics?