Older athletes (older like in the mid-late 20s or even 30s) will be stronger, faster, more disciplined, more experienced, than their 14-16 year equivalents. Is it just flexibility? There are circus contortionists and yoga enthusiasts that are incredibly flexible into their 30s or later.
I can’t think of any trait unique to gymnastics that other sports don’t also require to explain why gymnasts are so dang young, particularly the women’s. Men’s gymnastics seems to have a much older average age.
In: Other
“Flexibility” is another way of saying “tolerance before trauma sets in”. Now think about how long it takes an adult to heal joint trauma. Contrast with children. Figure out when/where the tipping point is, index with pubescent muscle mass increase. This is your answer.
Latest Answers