Policies - GYMCERT Safety Rules

1. Gymnastics is an activity that requires focus and attention. No horseplay in the waiting area or on the workout floor at any time will be allowed.

2. Notice - all gymnasts, parents and spectators: Gymnastics apparatus may only be used when a certified gymnastics coach is in direct supervision of the activity (that means no handstands, cartwheels, or flips before class in the waiting area).

3. All participants are required to wear appropriate gymnastics attire. Girls: leotards (and shorts if desired), and Boys: T-shirt and shorts.

4. All physical activity carries with it the potential for serious injury or worse, particularly when the activity takes place upside down. Pay attention to instructions and use Safety Landing Drills to complete all skills.

5. Landing any gymnastics skill on the head, neck, back, or stomach could cause serious injury. In addition, stiff arming a landing, or landing in a pit inappropriately may cause serious injury. See your instructor for proper Safety Landing Drills.

6. Use of gymnastics accessories such as grips, straps, wrist and ankle wraps, as well as tape for rips should only be done under direct supervision of a certified gymnastics instructor.

7. Enthusiasm and motivation when appropriately channeled can lead to the acquisition of new skills; however, no skill should ever be attempted without permission and/or safety spotting from a certified gymnastics instructor.

8. Basic skills, especially strength and flexibility, are the foundation for excellence in the sport of gymnastics. Follow the correct progressions in learning new gymnastics skills. As your gymnastics instructor for guidance.

9. Before using any gymnastics equipment it is imperative that the gymnast check with a certified gymnastics instructor to make sure the apparatus is set correctly and that safety devices and matting are appropriate to the level of skill being attempted.

10. Gymnastics is a dynamic activity that requires a sufficient warm-up period to insure all body parts are prepared for activity. Consult with a certified gymnastics instructor for guidance in conditioning and warm-up exercises.