We are wrapping up this month's Perfect 10.0 PT Enlightenment newsletter with one of my all time favorite topics… LANDING MECHANICS!
I could talk till pigs fly on landing mechanics. It was one of mine and Dr. Georges favorite topics!
Landing is one of the most high-impact moments in gymnastics. Proper mechanics can prevent injuries and improve longevity in your sport.
Why Are Landing Mechanics Important?
-
Reduces Injury Risk: Proper technique minimizes stress on joints, tendons, growth plates, and muscles.
-
Enhances Performance: Controlled landings improve stability and consistency.
-
Increases Longevity: Less strain means less microtraumas which means athletes can train and compete longer without setbacks.
Colt Walker dismounting in parallel bars
Key Elements of Safe Landings
âś… Absorb Impact: Bend, approximately equally through the hips, knees, and ankles (in that order) to distribute force effectively.
âś… Core Engagement: A strong core stabilizes the body and prevents excessive movement. **(hint this is not the 6 pack muscles!!! SPOILER: 6 pack muscles do NOT offer stability to the spine!)
âś… Maintain Proper Alignment: Keep knees inline with the 2nd toe and mostly bend to the midfoot and avoid excessive inward collapse of the knees and the arches of the feet..
âś… Strength & Conditioning: Plyometric and strength exercises build resilience against impact forces.
TRAIN WHAT YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE!!!
TRAIN GENTLE AND OFTEN!!!
This develops adaptations in the body, TRAINING ADAPTATION
Train at the desired speed, height/amplitude/shape etc for only as long as you can maintain it and then stop and rest and reset! Then do it again.
Small numbers training at the outcome desired for only as long as they can keep the outcome.
Example: If you want to sprint at a certain speed only train at that pace for as long as they can keep that pace (a metronome may be helpful) then rest, rinse and repeat!
Same for strength, for shapes, etc.
Enjoy this full. priceless, never seen before video of me and Dr. George discussing: Landing mechanics, training adaption, flexibility, strength, and much more!
Thank you for being a part of our journey. The greatest way to honor Dr. Gerald George’s legacy is to continue to learn, apply, and share the knowledge that elevates gymnastics performance!
To your success,
Brandi Smith
Connect with us 
Perfect 10.0 Physical Therapy and Performance Training
Perfect 10.0 PT Academy Online Courses
