Affiliate Programming of GST

This was another important factor that we discussed during our first Skype conference call. How do we each apply GB material into classes, how do we structure our classes and how do we programme over time?

Daniel Chan kindly explained how they have structured Level 1 and level 2 classes, separating more difficult progressions from the Foundation series into Level 2 classes. Students must first attend Level 1 until they have a proper foundation and understanding of all key principles.

I explained the changes we had made at Forma since speaking with Coach Sommer and Orench after the Stroud seminars in July. We went from a 90 minute format containing bits of everything into distinct classes; foundation, handstands, flexibility much like Awaken. We are currently in the process of developing a programme over a monthly cycle.

Tori and Dan also told of changes they made since the summer, and of recent advice from Coach Sommer to slow down a little in terms of how quick they expose students through the material.

Josee and Tyler are also currently in the process of rethinking their programming. 

It would be great if we could help develop some clear examples of programming options and how to deliver GB foundation material. It would be great for some coherence between affiliates so that travelling students will know that they are receiving top quality GB training no matter where they are or where they go in the World.

Hi guys,

To keep things simple, at Awaken I have structured all Level One classes to reflect GymnasticBodies Foundations. For me, this is the easiest way to run the program. Coach Sommer and GB have a wealth of progressions and knowledge that will never bore our students. With the basic structure in place, our instructors are given some freedom (playtime) during their sessions. This is to keep the instructor creative and taking ownership in their classes while still staying in line with the overall programming. What I don't want is an instructor who is doing their own thing out in left field. All GB students should feel comfortable and familiar with any of the classes that they take from any affiliate around the world. 

Now that you are growing your student bodies and they are getting stronger, Coach Sommer and I have discussed standardized Level 2 testing. For safety, we want to make it so that a traveling student from an affiliate gym going to another affiliate will get the same class structure/feel. A Level Two student should be able to attend a Level Two class at any of our affiliates and have the same intensity and requirements. This will help to promote GB affiliate class structure recognition.  

Thank you very much Orench, for the taking the time to write this.

Standardising the level 2 requirements across affiliates is a great idea. I had recently written up Level 2 requirements that I was going to implement next year, similar to those you have just shared but I was a little meaner. I am happy to hold off and implement finalised standards. I think they could be upped slightly. 90 sec chin hang, strict pull ups as well?

No need to up the standards. Out of over 300 students at Awaken, only 20 have passed the Level 2 examination.

Remember that this is training for the students and not yourselves; especially those of you who are on the GB World Team.

Point taken Coach!

I raised that point thinking about what Orench had explained about Awaken...

"Most importantly, at Awaken we judge the character of the athlete and whether or not they are potential developmental staff. On the other hand if they are strong but not a good fit for GB or Awaken we will be so strict they can't pass the requirements. This is to prevent further exposure to GB knowledge exclusive to affiliates and master class students."

Was just thinking about potential scenarios were good athletes may make these requiremnts but who are either not interested in becoming instructors or whose characters we may be doubtfull of.

Wes Tan said:

Point taken Coach!

... Was just thinking about potential scenarios were good athletes may make these requiremnts but who are either not interested in becoming instructors or whose characters we may be doubtfull of ...

In that situation, they are simply never permitted to test for Level 2.