The Science of Gymnastics: Advanced Concepts

The Science of Gymnastics provides the most comprehensive and accessible introduction available to the fundamental physiological, biomechanical and psychological principles underpinning performance in artistic gymnastics.

The second edition introduces three new sections: applied coaching, motor learning and injury prevention and safety, and features contributions from leading international sport scientists and gymnastics coaches and instructors. With case studies and review questions included in each chapter, the book examines every key aspect of gymnastic training and performance, including:

• physiological assessment
• diet and nutrition
• energetics
• kinetics and kinematics
• spatial orientation and motor control
• career transitions
• mental skills training and perception
• injury assessment and prevention, with clinical cases
• advanced case studies in rotations, vault approach and elastic technologies in gymnastics.

A fully dedicated website provides a complete set of lecture material, including ready-to-use animated slides related to each chapter, and the answers to all review questions in the book.

The book represents an important link between scientific theory and performance. As such, The Science of Gymnastics is essential reading for any student, researcher or coach with an interest in gymnastics, and useful applied reading for any student of sport science or sports coaching.

Monèm Jemni PhD is currently a tutor and a consultant at the University of Cambridge UK. He developed the first ever curriculum in sport science in the history of the University, launched at the Institute of Continuing Education. He is also a visiting Professor at Ningbo University, China after occupying several senior positions in France, in Qatar and in the UK. With a history as a gymnast and international coach who contributed to Olympic medal winners, he is now one of the pillars at the FIG Coaching Academy. His cross expertise in exercise science for health and performance has led him to win outstanding awards from several countries and enjoys world-leading reputation thanks to his cutting-edge research and investigations.