In this episode, Winston takes us through the intricate process of routine construction in gymnastics. The importance of trial and error when developing routines, how gymnasts select skills based on their individual strengths and the requirements of each apparatus.

Winston shares personal insights and experiences, including his own considerations while preparing for upcoming competitions. This process can be found in his new book, The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding the Game, which offers a deeper exploration of the sport, including scoring, apparatus, and routine construction

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Routine Construction as a Puzzle
Creating a gymnastics routine is compared to solving a puzzle, where gymnasts must work out how to connect skills while maximising difficulty and minimising energy use.

Individualised Approach
Each gymnast’s routine is highly personalised, requiring consideration of their strengths, weaknesses, and the skills they can perform consistently. This tailored approach is vital for achieving the highest possible score.

Importance of Planning
Before entering the gym, gymnasts should have a clear plan (ideally with multiple options) for their routines. This preparation allows them to focus on execution rather than making decisions during training.

Balancing Difficulty and Execution
Gymnasts must balance the difficulty of skills with their ability to perform them cleanly. Sometimes, opting for a lower-value skill that can be executed well is more beneficial than attempting a higher-value skill that results in deductions.

Competing for Confidence and Growth
Competing isn’t solely about winning; it also helps gymnasts gain confidence, improve their skills, and prepare for future competitions. This mindset emphasises personal development and the value of experience over medals alone.

BEST MOMENTS

“When you’re making a routine, where do you start? Normally, if you’re a gymnast, you sort of know where you’re at, so you can start.”

“It’s all about finding what’s right for you – that’s the biggest thing.”

“You have to work at it in the gym, but you also have to think about it when you’re out of it.”

“Sometimes adding the D value is just to get the routine out there, regain consistency in competition, and build the confidence to perform it.”

“It’s not just about the medals. It rarely is. Sometimes it’s about the graph—the numbers behind it all that make it work.”

MY SOCIAL LINKS

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wpowell05/⁠⁠

https://www.tiktok.com/@winstonpowell5

MY E-BOOK The Game of Gymnastics: Understanding The Game
https://payhip.com/b/f6RjV

Host Bio:

As a member of the Senior Great Britain Squad, Winston Powell brings firsthand experience to every episode. His impressive achievements include being the Under 18 English Champion in 2023 and reaching the finals in three events at the Junior World Championships the same year: the All-Around, Parallel Bars, and Horizontal Bar finals qualifying 7th for the All-Around. With five international appearances as a GB gymnast, he has gained invaluable insights into the sport's highest levels. His passion for gymnastics, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by elite athletes, makes him the perfect guide to exploring the strategies and stories behind gymnastics success.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠