The cross on rings performed by an Olympic champion

Abstract

The cross is a key skill in Male Artistic Gymnastics rings routines. However, few researches were found about this skill. There is knowledge about the forces needed to perform the cross, or about muscles activation, separately. The aim of this paper was to accomplish a comprehensive research about the biomechanics of cross on rings, in order to obtain a descriptive model about this skill. Therefore, the currently Olympic champion on rings event volunteered in this research. He performed three crosses with the usual apparatus in his training gym. The measurement methods were combined: One digital video camera, one strain gauge in each cable and surface electromyography of nine right shoulder muscles were used. Statistical analyses were performed by parametric and non parametric tests and descriptive statistics. Symmetry values were calculated for shoulder angles and cables of right and left side. Coefficient of variation of muscle activation and co contraction were verified. Within gymnast variability was calculated using biological coefficient of variation (BCV), discretely for kinematic measures. Low variability values of shoulder angles and cable forces were verified and low values of asymmetry as well. Muscle activation varied according to muscle function, while co-contraction values were different among trials. These results pointed out the characteristics of the cross performed by an elite gymnast. Knowledge about the characteristics of cross can inform coaches, practitioners and clinicians how a successful skill should be presented.

A Systematic Review of Dynamic, Kinematic, and Muscle Activity during Gymnastic Still Rings Elements

“…The elements which require high muscular coordination is possible to evaluate by EMG, specifically in Azarian cross [ 18 ], support scale [ 1 , 19 ], inverted cross [ 20 ], and iron cross [ 21 , 22 ]. The basic description of all the included studies is presented in Table 2 .…”

“…Unlike force plates, this system can be implemented directly on the rings [ 17 ]. Compared with the force plates and force analysis systems such as assessing tools for athletes’ strength abilities, EMG is also used in still rings exercises to detect muscle activity during selected elements/movements [ 1 , 18 , 20 , 21 , 22 ]. It seems that knowledge about muscle activity, and the co-contraction of activated muscles during performing different still ring elements could be useful for optimizing training methods not only for strength and holding elements.…”