Gymnastics is more than just a sport; it's a powerful tool for developing children's physical, mental, and social skills. As a primary school teacher or coach, you have a unique opportunity to ignite a lifelong passion for movement and activity. One of the fundamental skills in gymnastics that lays the foundation for more complex maneuvers is the forward roll.
In this blog, we'll explore the importance of the forward roll and provide you with valuable insights on how to support a child in mastering this skill.
Here's why the forward roll is a vital skill for children aged 4-11:
Physical Development: The forward roll enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination. It engages various muscle groups, including the core, shoulders, and back, contributing to overall strength development.
Body Awareness: Mastering the forward roll helps children become more aware of their bodies in space. This increased spatial awareness lays the groundwork for more advanced gymnastics and athletic movements.
Confidence Building: Successfully completing a forward roll instills a sense of accomplishment and boosts a child's self-confidence. This newfound confidence can positively impact their overall attitude towards physical activities.
Risk Management: Learning how to perform a forward roll safely teaches children about risk assessment and management. They learn to control their bodies and understand the importance of proper technique to prevent injury.
Not every child will be able to do a forward roll without support so as a teacher or a coach it's important you feel confident supporting a forward roll.
Break It Down:
Divide the forward roll into smaller, manageable steps.
Prioritise safety by using a gymnastics mat for performing forward rolls
Never try to force the child over, let them use their own momentum as much as possible.
Place your dominant hand at the back of their leg just above the knee.
Place other hand supporting back of the head.
Child places their hands on a mat close to feet to help prevent children from rolling on their heads, if the hands are too far away the child may put too much pressure on the top of their head when rolling.
Try not to put pressure on the top of your head, only the back of the head should touch the ground.
Encourage child to tuck their head into their chin, bend their knees and try to roll over
Make it even easier:
Elevate the mat to allow gravity to give the child more momentum!
Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate every effort and improvement, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages children to persist and embrace challenges.
To help your confidence in teach gymnastics in primary schools uSports' online course offers:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain access to a detailed curriculum that covers not only the forward roll but a wide range of gymnastics skills suitable for children aged 4-11.
Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced gymnastics instructors who provide step-by-step instructions, teaching techniques, and safety guidelines.
Interactive Modules: Engage in interactive modules that include videos, quizzes, and practical demonstrations, ensuring you grasp each skill thoroughly.
To enroll in uSports' online course today by clicking here https://www.u-sports.co.uk/online-gymnastics-course