I’ve heard that to be able to train at the top level for gymnastics that it takes hard work, dedication, a proper diet, obviously skill, more often than not some sort of steroid to help recover, and “superior genetics”. What are these “superior genetics” that makes other people unable to reach the potential that these gymnasts have?
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Height is the obvious first one. You’ll notice that most gymnasts are shorter than average. Every inch of height takes just a little more power to thrust into the air. A shorter gymnast has a noticeable advantage over a taller one.
The second is overall build. Gymnastics favor stocker, stronger frames. Again, it’s all about power. Slender frames have a tougher time putting on enough muscle to generate the power required.
A very good illustration of an exception to the rule is Svetlana Khorkina. She is both more slender and noticeably taller than most other female gymnasts, and had to work to compensate. So it’s not necessary to be short and stocky, but it really helps.
There are also numerous other mechanical things like sense of balance and good joints that can absolutely be trained, but some people have more innate luck there than others.
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