Training in Rhythmic Gymnastics During the Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Training Methodology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated global lockdowns, significantly impacting sports training and competition.
• Rhythmic gymnastics (RG) faced challenges in maintaining physical, technical, and psychological conditioning during confinement.
• Coaches sought alternative home training methods to mitigate detraining effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how rhythmic gymnastics training was conducted during lockdown.
• To identify the conditions, training types, monitoring methods, and participation determinants.
• To provide recommendations for future lockdown scenarios.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was administered to 302 rhythmic gymnastics coaches across five continents and four professional levels.
• Data collection involved 39 closed questions covering coach identification, training during confinement, and gymnast participation.
• Analysis focused on performance levels as the independent variable and training media, content, monitoring, and participation determinants as dependent variables.

Main Results:

• Most coaches maintained training, but 76.5% reported gymnast dropout.
• Real-time video conferencing was the primary training medium, with deferred-time methods used at lower levels.
• Training focused on body technique, physical preparation, and body difficulties; performance monitoring utilized challenges and tests.
• Training determinants varied by level: connectivity and resources for elite gymnasts, space and social distancing for lower levels.

Conclusions:

• Rhythmic gymnastics training adapted to lockdowns primarily through digital platforms, though significant dropout occurred.
• Training content and performance monitoring strategies require review for future disruptions.
• Tailored approaches considering gymnast level, resources, and environmental factors are crucial for effective remote training.