Characteristics of a Gymnast

Gymnastics is one of the most difficult sports an individual can do. It requires strength, flexibility, and determination to name a few. A gymnast needs strength in order to perform his/her skills well and safely. Once one skill is mastered, the gymnast can move on to a more difficult skill. This is one aspect about gymnastics that separates this sport from any other sport. Unlike football, for example, a football player learns how to play, and then spend the rest of the time perfecting it. In gymnastics, the athlete learns the basic skills then can always improve and grow. For example, once the gymnast learns and masters a cartwheel, he/she can learn a round off. 

It is also important that the gymnast is flexible so he/she can perform safely. Flexibility can also make the skills easier for the gymnast.  In addition, flexibility makes the gymnast's skills look better and clean. An example of a gymnast having flexibility would be the gymnast being able to keep his/her arms or legs straight throughout the routine. 

Another aspect that a gymnast must have is determination. There are many times when a gymnast has a fear of a skill or is learning a new one. In order to be successful, the gymnast must figure out how to overcome the situation. They go through many hard and difficult days, but determination gets them through. Since this sport is so hard on the body, injuries are very common. It is very possible that a gymnast will have a severe injury in his/her career and be unable to practice. It can be hard to stay motivated and stay positive. However, with determination, any situation can be overcome. 
All these aspects are very important to a gymnast. Gymnastics is a difficult sport but can also be one of the most rewarding sports.

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