Portsmouth gymnastics centre and Portsmouth gymnastics club follow the British Gymnastics flexibility policy (updated 2024 – click here).
The club and centre will employ the following flexibility training methods. However, individual coaches have the right not to use any facilitated stretching methods.
A gymnast has the right to stop or say no to flexibility training at any point.
Coaches of all levels are permitted to adjust alignment or technique during physical preparation and flexibility training activities. To ensure the correct position is learnt and practiced, and to reduce the risk of injury from poor technique.
Level 2 coaches (or equivalent) are permitted to use:
Level 3 coaches (or equivalent) are permitted to use:
The club ask that parents indicate on the gymnast registration form to consent to use of coach facilitated methods that may be used during gymnastics sessions.
If a gymnast or parent/carer requests adjustments to practice they must be able to do so without fear of consequence, or discrimination.
In line with the British Gymnastic safeguarding policy. No Pre School gymnasts are to practice any bridge or splits related exercises.
In line with the British Gymnastics safeguarding policy, General gymnastics members (including Advanced gymnastics and disability gymnastics) will ONLY undergo self-directed stretching methods. This may include a coach or helper making verbal or manually directed adjustments to alignment. This is to ensure the correct position is learnt and practiced, and to reduce the risk of injury from poor technique.
As part of PGC’s safeguarding procedures, posters regarding flexibility training are on view and made available to all members of the gymnastics community.
If any coaches, parents or gymnasts, would like any additional information, support or have any concerns please contact the Head coach or the welfare team (welfare@portsmouthgymnastics.club)