8 Marker - Exam Question 5 ANSWER

A gymnast may look to use continuous training and flexibility training to improve their performance.

Discuss the suitability of the two training methods for a gymnast.

(8 Marks) Flexibility Training  There are 3 types of flexibility training (stretching): Static; Ballistic & Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. (1 mark)  A gymnast can adapt the type of training specifically to their discipline in gymnastics. (1 mark)  It is generally free or very cheap to access. (1 mark)  Taking park in flexibility training will reduce the risk of injury. (1 mark)  You would expect a gymnast to have suitable knowledge and understanding of training methods, but if they didn’t they could increase the risk of injury. (1 mark)  Only limited training can be done individually so they would need access to a partner or additional equipment.

(1 mark)  You need to spend a lot of time improving flexibility through training. (1 mark) Continuous Training  Continuous training develops muscular and aerobic endurance. (1 mark)

 Gymnasts need good muscular endurance in certain events such as a floor routine. (1 mark)  A lot of gymnastic events are more about strength and power so this may not be as suitable as other types of training. (1 mark)  You need to train for at least 30 minutes for it to be effective so there is a time constraint. (1 mark)  Continuous training can lead to repetitive strain injuries.

(1 mark)