***4 GYMNASTS, Need some advice please***

Question

I do gymnastics so we need to stretch alot but im doing back walkovers on beam and they kill my back ,they never hurt my back until now so is there anything i can do to help my back,,,,I dont know if i should stretch differently or just ice my back..Please help!

Answer 1

It sounds like you're probably doing your "bending" more with your lower back, instead of with your shoulders.  Start your walkover by stretching as tall as you can and then pull your shoulders back as far as they'll go before you bend your back. Try to keep your stomach tight and lifted throughout the whole skill.  That will put less stress on your back.  If your shoulders aren't very flexible, ask your coach for some shoulder stretches.  That should help!

Answer 2

EVERY DAY AFTER PRACTICE TAKE A NICE COLD BATH! THEN AFTER USE SOME IE THEN PUT A HEATING PAD ON YOUR BACK! i DO CHEERLEADING AND GYMNASTICS AND i DO THAT ALL THE TIME WHEN MY BACK IS IN PAIN! TRY THAT AND IF IT DON'T WORK THEN TRY TAKEN A HOT SHOWER AND IF THA DON'T WORK THEN TRY ASKING YOUR COAH!

Answer 3

I'm feeling your pain :) When I was in level 6 I had the same problem! This happens because during practice we have to do them over and over again and it is such a strain on our backs.  Just stretch often and yes, ice when you get home.  Also ask someone at home for a massage... if they are willing :).  That always is great and I'm sure it will help.  Good luck!