February 1, 2011
During beam training the gymnasts should practice different kinds of walks jumps and other basic skills that help to develop an increase in balance, clean body lines, and elegant execution. The basic front kicks must swing up horizontal or higher, but always keeping the support leg straight, and the body in a vertical line without piking forward or arching back. As in any other dance skill, the stomach and buttocks are tucked in. The head stays neutral or with the chin slightly up. Performing in a tall releve increases the challenge to keep a steady balance.
February 1, 2011
Coaches may add different challenges and variations to basic training. Here we offer a couple of extra walks and kick combinations. In this example when the gymnast steps forward she raises the back leg to a tight arch while she performs a demiplie. Then she swings the same leg forward to a high front kick as the support leg extends to releve. In this second variation the gymnast performs front kicks, where the support leg raises to a tall releve and the foot of the free bent leg moves from a couppe to a passe position, ending with a high kick straightening the knee.
February 1, 2011
The needle kicks are another good addition to beam warm up lines. During each kick the goal is to bring the kicking leg to point vertical or beyond with a full split and open hip angle. The drill can be performed alternating each leg kick and stepping along the beam, or staying in place and kicking several times with one leg and then the other.
February 1, 2011
In both the regular split leap and the switch leap the front leg swings forward as the back leg leaves the floor in a sweeping motion to kick toward the horizontal line. Both the front and back leg cooperate to show a 180 degree split or more at peak height. Many younger gymnasts often demonstrate a back leg position that is a little low and not completely parallel to the beam, or they tend to flex the back leg. This simple swing and kick back exercise helps the athlete understand the quick kick action required from her back leg. It is important to train the drill without bending the leg during the kicks.
February 1, 2011
The swing kick half turn is a good balance drill. The goal is to perform a high front kick and swing the same leg back while raising the support leg in a tall releve. The gymnast performs a half turn ending with that same free leg raising up as high as possible above the horizontal line. The whole drill must be performed without bending the support leg or the free swinging leg. The body is kept straight without leaning forward or arching back.
