Arm Workout

Arms are very important to strengthen up. Without strong arms, it would be very hard to do a handstand, or any other skill, because you need arm strength for nearly every event in gymnastics. Here is a list of some exercises which will hopefully strengthen your arms. The directions following the 2 dash marks after every exercise listed indicates the more challenging way to do an exercise. This routine can be done more than once a day if you want to challenge your body to the max. If even twice through, and this routine is still easy for you, you can try doing it multiple times until you feel that it has been an efficient workout for you. If this is too challenging for you even one time through, you can half or split the amount of times you do an exercise. For example, 15 push-ups can be modified to around 7 or 8. Let's start!

• 15 push-ups -- Push-ups for 30-45 seconds
• 25 tricep dips -- Tricep dips for 30-60 seconds
• 30 seconds plank -- Plank for as long as possible
• 20 arm circles forward and 20 backwards -- Arm circles for 1 minute each direction
• 10 one arm push-ups for each arm -- One arm push-ups 30 seconds for each arm

If you have any question about this workout, comment on this post and I will respond ASAP.

Ab Workout

In order to be fit, or keep up with your strength wether it be in gymnastics or any other sport, you might want to try working out at home. Here is a list of some exercises that will challenge your body, and hopefully make you stronger. The directions following the 2 dash marks after every exercise listed indicates another way you complete the activity in time. This routine can be done more than once a day if you want to challenge your body to the max. If even twice through, and this routine is still easy for you, you can try doing it multiple times until you feel that it has been an efficient workout for you. If this is too challenging for you even one time through, you can half or split the amount of times you do an exercise. For example, 25 crunches can be modified to around 12 or 13. Let's get to the workout!

• 25 crunches -- Crunches for 30-60 seconds
• 25 vertical crunches -- Vertical crunches for 30-60 seconds
• 10 sit-ups -- Sit-ups for 45 seconds
• 10 V-ups -- V-ups for 20-30 seconds
• Plank on hands or elbows for 30 seconds -- Plank for as long as possible
• Side plank on each side for 25-30 seconds -- Side planks for as long as possible for both sides
• 25-30 russian twists -- Russian twists for 45-60 seconds

If you have any questions, comment on this post and I'll answer ASAP. Hope this helped!

Announcement!

I just very recently sprained my left ankle from taking a fall off of the beam. I landed on the side of my foot causing my ankle to sort of snap to the side. It will be fine, but I'm not supposed to put pressure on it. I don't know if I'll be able to even do handstands or go to practice for the time being, but I definitely will get back to gymnastics and of course on the beam once my ankle has healed.

Back Walkovers

This skill is a little trickier to learn. You need to have mastered your backbend in order to better learn a back walkover. First, warm up your muscles by stretching. For this skill you will need to stretch your shoulders, back, arms, and legs. You can also just hold a backbend for 30 seconds. Once you're comfortable with your backbend you will start on the edge of your mat with your good leg in front. Your arms will be by your ears the entire time. Then, lift your good leg up as you bend back. This will boost your momentum so that it's easier to get your legs over. When you end, your good leg will touch the ground first. Your other leg will naturally follow through. Remember to keep your legs straight when you lift your legs over your head for a clean back walkover. Advanced gymnasts will later do back walkovers on beam! Beginners may also need a spotter. Good luck! Photo credit goes to Ashlee Marie on Pinterest.

Cartwheels for Beginners

One of the first skills you learn in gymnastics is a cartwheel. Before you attempt any kind of skill, you will need to warm up your muscles by stretching. For this skill, make sure to stretch your shoulders, arms, and possibly your abs depending on your upper body strength.

Stand up tall with a straight back and arms by your ears. Next, place your good leg forward and point your toes. Your other leg will stay stationary for the starting position. Next, Move only your torso down and place your hands so that your fingers are facing right if you're are a right-legged person, and opposite for left-legged people. Remember to keep your arms by your ears, then kick your 'bad' leg up with as much power as you can. This will give you momentum to actually get your legs over your head. When you land, your 'bad' leg will touch first. The problem most people have with carwheels is keeping their legs straight the entire time. In order to achieve straight legs, try doing a handstand for a longer period of time. Straight legs will improve your balance, which will make cartwheels easier. ( beginners may need a spotter ) It also makes your arms stronger. Beginners may experience forearm strains, and maybe sore legs and abs. Make sure you relax and avoid carrying heavy items, and doing more cartwheels. Good luck! Photo credit goes to Blackxmagnolia on Tumblr.

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Welcome!

Allie, here! Welcome to my new blog about fitness, gymnastics, and dancing! I will be posting tricks and tips for mastering a skill, and my fitness routine! Stay tuned!