Comparison of training loads between two participation levels, apparatus and training phases of female gymnasts

Previous studies of young gymnasts frequently separate growth, maturation, injury, training load and biomechanical analyses (Baxter-Jones et al., 2003; Caine et al., 2003; Davidson et al., 2005; Seeley and Bressel, 2005). Research recognising the potential synergy among factors affecting young gymnasts is required to assist in peak performance and injury prevention. To this end, a recent initiative of Gymnastics Australia has been the recommendation of periodised training programmes. The primary aim of this study was to determine the effects of participation level (international and national levels), apparatus (beam and floor) and training phase (pre-competition and competition) on estimates of training load among female artistic gymnasts aged seven to 13 years. In particular, the gymnastic-specific dependent variables involved observations of the frequency of wrist and ankle impacts, landings, balance-related skills and rotations. The study also quantified the non-gymnastic-specific movement components of accelerations and total steps per apparatus.