Shaposnykova Spot

In this spotting approach the coach is assisting from the opposite side of the gymnast’s free hip initiation and helping to assure that the athlete has enough flying momentum toward the upper rail and that her body, legs, and heels do not hit the lower bar. To be able to help the gymnast move over, he is standing on a block of adequate height so he can effectively reach her closer arm and her lower back. He also has properly placed extra mats under the bar to minimize any fall if she misses her upper bar re-grasp. Before a gymnast progresses to this learning stage, they must know how to perform the flying phase clearing a single rail and landing on a loose foam pit. Also, during that earlier stage the coach spots heavier until he is sure she is clearing the bar with a great degree of proficiency.