As coaches, we often argue: should conditioning go at the start of practice when everyone is fresh, or at the end , after skill work and routines? From what I’ve read — and what I’ve seen — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What matters most is how you do it, why you’re doing it, and what your athletes need. Here’s how I break it down, with research backing things up, and how I’ve applied it in my gym. What the Research Says HIIT & Technical Accuracy Under Fatigue A recent study in youth...

When I first decided to launch a TOPs (Talent Opportunity Program) for gymnastics, my goal was to create something that challenged athletes without overwhelming them. It’s easy to get caught up in the intensity of high-level training, but the demands of a TOPs program can be a lot — especially for athletes under the age of 10. Over time, I’ve learned that starting intentionally and building slowly is the key to creating a sustainable program. Here’s how I built our gymnastics TOPs...

One of the most common questions I get as a coach is: “When should gymnasts move from bodyweight training to weight training?” In gymnastics, shaping and bodyweight control form the foundation of strength. But there comes a time when progressing requires adding resistance beyond an athlete’s own body. The key is knowing when athletes are ready and how to add weights safely. Start with Bodyweight and Shaping Foundations Every gymnast begins with bodyweight strength: push-ups, rope climbs,...