October is Safety Awareness Month!

Here are some of the most important ways we keep our students safe at CSC:

Having qualified instructors and coaches for every class and at every practice. A qualified coach is up to date on the latest safety recommendations and is able to supervise their students while providing them with proper instruction.
Ensuring that our facilities are properly equipped and maintained. All equipment is in good working condition and properly secured. Mats are placed under all equipment and thick enough to cushion falls.
Requiring all staff and students to wear appropriate clothing. Gymnasts should wear clothing or leotards that are fairly tight-fitting but allow for freedom of movement. They should also avoid any loose clothing, jewelry, and hair that can cover the eyes or get grabbed or caught while performing.
Instructing all students to always be aware of their surroundings. Gymnasts should be aware of other gymnasts, coaches, and equipment that are in the area. They should also become aware of their own body in the gym space, interacting with equipment, and their own skill level and limitations.
Having plans in place for emergencies. Plans include procedures for handling injuries, evacuating the facility, and contacting emergency personnel.
Never have staff be alone with students, for any reason. We have had our Never Be Alone policy in place for 20+ years and we follow USA Gymnastics SafeSport guidelines.

Teaching our students using proper spotting techniques and drills. Spotting is the act of assisting a gymnast while they are performing a skill. Spotters and well-designed drills can help to prevent falls and injuries by catching the gymnast if they lose their balance or control.
Warming up and stretching before each class or practice. This helps prepare the body for more strenuous activity and reduces the risk of injury.
Teaching our students and athletes how to properly use the equipment and mats, and also how to both land and fall. The higher the level, generally the more energy, height and/or rotation gymnasts will have when landing or falling. The drills used to practice landing and falling should meet the appropriate level of the gymnast(s).
Starting slow with basics, and gradually increase the difficulty of skills as your students become stronger and more coordinated. Stay within the defined skills approved for their level, and review and refine fundamental skills often.
Not pushing or allowing your students to try or learn skills until they are very clearly ready.
Being patient and encouraging. Gymnastics is a challenging sport, and step by step learning is not only safer but more enjoyable and rewarding.