preparatory gymnastics

<p>I've been told that I should consider taking a few gymnastics lessons before reporting to WP in July. Apparently, from what I've been told, the academy doesn't really teach much in the required gymnastics classes, they more just show something and expect you to be able to do it.<br>
So I contacted a gymnastics coach but he couldn't really help me much because he didn't really know what things West Point will want me to know. We did work on a handstand and rings but I would like to know what other things does West Point work on in gymnastics? I know NOTHING about gymnastics so I really can't even take a guess at this.</p>

<p>I would most likely advise working the parallel bars, maybe do some beam and rings. Maybe do a back handspring ;)</p>

<p>It's really called Military Movement these days. I can look into it for you if you want.</p>

<p>Gymnastics at West Point could only be referred to very loosely as gymnastics. Most of it is about balance and technique. I'm tempted to say that general gymnastics lessons wouldn't help, but maybe it would improve your coordination and balance, who knows. My best advice is, once the academic year starts, get your team leader to run you through the Indoor Obstacle Training Course (IOCT) and then practice it when you can. That's where a good chunk of your points are in the class.</p>

<p>I know you really want to be prepared for every aspect of West Point, but remember that the school has been operating for over 200 years without new cadets having prepped for gymnastics...I suggest you relax and enjoy the rest of your senior year! Maybe just stretch alot to increase your flexibility!</p>

<p>Second that.</p>

<p>momof07- I heard it was a requirement at Naval Academy to be able to touch your own toes...so much for flexibility!</p>

<p>Seriously, if it were still relevant for me, I'd be freaking out more about the swimming, but that's just me.</p>

<p>OK, thanks for the advice. And, of course, keep it coming if you have more.<br>
momof07; I knew somebody would say that, and I do agree. It's just, a high-ranking West Pointer suggested the whole gymnastics thing to me, and I thought it would be good to kinda learn the ropes (no pun intended). Besides, I want to learn as much as I can at the Academy, and this might just put me a little ahead, where I can learn the next step instead of working on basics.<br>
Anyway, thanks everybody.</p>

<p>Definitely get used to ropes...</p>

<p>as in rope climbing? oh boy...does anyone have any tips on rope climbing? i've tried it, and have never been able to do it.</p>

<p>As a circus girl I would tell you to wrap and trap using your thighs and ankles, but in college they said to kinda loop it and step on it between your feet. It's hard for me to explain because I prefer the circus method I was taught a long time ago. Either way you use your legs or feet to clamp then you reach up for the next segment of rope. </p>

<p>If you want to get fancy use only your arms and hold your legs out straddle. Oh circus, I do miss you so.</p>