BASIC BIOMECHANICAL RELATIONSHIPS AT PUSH-OFF FOR HANDSPRING FORWARD VAULTS

Abstract

The performance prognosis and the creation of new elements in artistic gymnastics require the knowledge of basic biomechanical relationships. We investigated such relationships at elements with flight phase executing from preceding elements on horizontal bar and uneven bars (Knoll, 2001), but also on floor, beam and rings (Knoll, 1993). The reduction of the angular momentum was typical in the upswing and the take-off to the flight element. The posture in the flight element, stretched or tucked, determined the amount of the reduction. We can classify the movement phases of the vaults analogously: the vault preparing elements are running approach, take-off and first flight phase. The push-off on vaulting horse corresponds to the take-off on floor respectively the upswing on hang apparatuses. At last the second flight phase corresponds to the flight element. The aim of this study was to find out if there are identical functional relationships at push-off on vaulting, for example the reduction of the angular momentum which we found in previous studies for other apparatuses. We also investigated the variation of joint angles and reaction forces in the push-off. Finally, in further investigations we will attempt to answer the question if the new vaulting table requires modifications of the sports technique.