METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS REGARDING THE IMPROVEMENT OF TSUKAHARA VAULT (TEMPO)

The main purpose of this research is to analyse methodological aspects regarding the improvement of the handspring forward with ½ turn (1800) in the longitudinal axis, which is known as Tsukahara vault (tempo), for junior gymnasts (levels 2 and 3) aged 10-11 years. The analysed aspects are the basis of an experimental study carried out at the “Steaua” School Sports Club in Bucharest. The study was conducted with a single experimental group consisting of eight female gymnasts selected from the advanced and competitive groups (Women’s Artistic Gymnastics section). The athletes were assessed at the beginning of the research (initial testing) and at the end of the experiment after applying a specific programme aimed at both physical training and technical training. Among the physical tests applied, we mention: 25 m sprint, Sargent test, standing long jump, but the assessment also targeted back and shoulder girdle muscle strength, abdominal strength and the ability to maintain specific positions in vault phases (first and second flights). From a technical point of view, the gymnasts’ performance was evaluated taking into account the specific penalties provided by the International Gymnastics Federation Classification Programme and the requested positions for the 3 vault phases specified in the Code of Points. The objective of this experiment is to highlight how the improvement of physical and technical parameters influences the accuracy and efficiency of execution.