Problem with isometrics

[Arhimman]

Hi coach, I wanted to ask you a question because yesterday I was pretty confused. I was reading this article http://www.defrancostraining.com/articles/38-articles/65-westside-for-skinny-bastards-part3.html and I found it really interesting so I decided to visit the westside barbell site and I came up with this article about isometrics http://www.westside-barbell.com/Articles%20Top%20Ten/PDF.Files/06PDF/isometrics.pdf. It basically says that isometrics aren't to be used before puberty or if one is a novice and that they can fatigue the central nervous system. I'm 17 and I've been practicing now your static positions for a while so I wanted to know if I should stop and if you use them with kids younger or with the same age as me. Also, I wanted to know what you think about this type of training. In your opinion, do you think gymnastics are better for building speed, strenght and improving athletic performance? Thanks for your attention.

[Coach Sommer]

For generations every gymnast, regardless of age or gender, around the world has practiced static holds. The mistaken reference to static holds in this article is simply a case of an intelligent coach expressing an opinion on something outside of their area of expertise.

Yours in Fitness,

Coach Sommer