Method of teaching jumping
The natural way of jumping must not be confused with the techniques used in gymnastics. The natural way of jumping is performed without supporting body with hands. They can be executed on ground and jumping over different apparatus etc.
Jumps on ground can be performed
- from one foot onto the same foot;
- from one foot onto the other foot;
- from one foot onto both feet;
- from two feet onto one foot;
- from two feet onto two feet.
Directions can be: forward, backward, to the left and to the right. Jumps can be done with turns, lifting a knee- and feet, a straddle, circling arms, and with devices holding them in hands or among legs (ball, beanbag, and stick).
Jumps can be performed over obstacles and blockages (bench, stool and vault) as well as over students’ partner or, for example, on the abdomen, sitting on knees, kneeling support and in push-ups.
Depth jumps mean jumping from different height. Students should land on both feet. This exercise can be performed after enough number of warm-up activities. Instructors and teachers must be very careful and do their best to avoid accidents, for example, by using mats. First, students should practice to jump from a bench, a stool a vault with 2-3-4-5 elements. It is then when they are allowed to try jumping from wall bars. This type of jumps is very effective if students are ordered to stand straight when finishing jumping. One of the most effective techniques of teaching our students to jump is when they are asked to perform exercises in groups. While forming 3-4 groups students are ordered to stand near the edge of a jumping pit and they should be told the directions from where to start and where to arrive. Students who are waiting for their turn, in groups with 6-8 participants, must be patient and watch the others.