Tips for Spectators

Being a gymnast myself, competing, and watching many major competitions, including the Atlanta Olympics, I know the effect the spectators have on gymnasts. Applause is great, and encourages the gymnast on, but too much (such as the scene at the womens gymnastics events at the Atlanta games) is not good. Some of the gymnasts on the other events, that the American gymnasts weren't on, were very distracted and their concentration was thrown off because of all the applause. Here are some tips on how to be a good spectator.

~ When at a gymnastics competition, there are some dos, and don'ts...

~ DO clap for gymnasts when they have completed a good routine

~ DON'T keep clapping for 5 minutes afterward

~ DO applaud gymnasts who have completed a clean tumbling line, or a clean series on the beam

~ DON'T applaud gymnasts if they have completed a good dance move, it may take their concentration off

~ DO clap a little when a gymnasts score is announced

~ DON'T stand up and give a standing ovation, or clap extremely loudly, you will be disturbing the other gymnasts