introduction

Trampoline and Tumbling is a relatively new sport to the USA Gymnastics Association and to Washington State. The Gymnastics East Trampoline and Tumbling Team was formed in 2002 and is composed of 35 athletes ranging in ages from eight to eighteen. Athletes perform on three apparatus: trampoline, double-mini trampoline and a tumbling rod floor. Simple routines are composed of tuck, straddle and pike jumps, seat drops, and front drops. Higher level routines are composed of double backs, Arabians, one and a half twists, and Baranis.

International competition trampolines are larger and more powerful than those utilized in the early years and a far cry from the "backyard" models that are found today in most American suburban neighborhoods. During competitive routines of 10 skills, upper-level athletes can easily demonstrate a graceful array of double, triple and twisting somersaults. To see an example of the great work these gymnasts do, check out the coverage of trampoline competition at the 2008 Olympic Games.

Double mini is a relatively new sport that combines the horizontal run of tumbling with the vertical rebound of trampoline. After a short run, the athlete jumps onto a small two-level trampoline to perform a rebounding trick immediately followed by a dismount element onto a landing mat. Double mini is similar in concept to springboard diving, using a mat instead of water. Power tumbling is performed on elevated spring runways that help tumblers propel themselves higher than a basketball goal as they demonstrate speed, strength and skill while executing a series of acrobatic maneuvers. Top-level contenders will perform explosive somersaults with multiple flips and twists.

If you are interested in joining the team, please contact the Gymnastics East Preston office or Cathie Richardson for more details.