A comparison of a tucked back somersault between novice and experienced acrobatic gymnasts: an inertial measurement approach

The purpose of the case study was to analyse and compare the kinematics of a backward somersault in acrobatic gymnasts. Four acrobatic gymnasts aged between 8-17 years participated in the study, as two paired partnerships. Kinematic data during a backwards tucked somersault were collected using an XSens Inertial system and whole-body joint angular kinematics were compared between experienced and novice gymnasts. Findings indicate that experienced gymnast produced slightly greater knee flexion and an increased ROM through the take-off phase and a greater adduction/abduction movement during arm swing throughout the somersault. The novice gymnast produced a higher range of flexion/extension and internal/external rotation in the shoulder during the preparation and take-off phases. This indicates that training should focus on developing temporal movement efficiency to enhance effective progression of acrobatic gymnasts