Friday, September 28, 2012

What gymnastics classes can take away from the 2012 Olympics


The 2012 Olympics were amazing, and offered a lot of great examples for students of gymnastics classes to learn from, beyond the fact that the “Fierce Five” dominated the competitions overall. The athletes who competed this year are excellent role models and a perfect example of what we want our children to garner from participating in gymnastic competitions.

In addition to the fact that every member of the US team proved they can successfully do the Amanar vault—something very few, if any others, can claim to do—our team as well as team members from other countries displayed leadership and sportsmanship at its best this year. In addition to helping its students develop power, strength and flexibility, a good gymnastics school strives to teach the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork and having respect for others.

For instance, Aliya Mustafina exemplified incredible sportsmanship at the Olympics this year, defying any stereotypes about Russian gymnasts that were constructed in previous years. Instead of crying when she lost the gold in the all around, she celebrated her bronze medal with vigor. She spoke highly in regards to her competitors, stating that the Americans deserved their win. Aliya acted with class and remained positive throughout the all of the gymnastic competitions, setting a stellar example for students of any gymnastics school in any part of the world.

Aly Raisman’s behavior and leadership was also exemplary at the 2012 Olympics. She came home with two gold medals and one bronze, but she deserves an award for remaining a positive leader through thick and thin. She was there for her teammates whenever they needed her, and showed a lot of class when she put her gold around her coach's neck. So sweet and thoughtful, and full of sportsmanship—Aly proved to be another great model for students in gymnastics classes across the world.

Image Credit: Julie Jacobson, espn.com

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