question regarding size and gymnastics

[ekdn]

Hey...

I have considered beginning to focus on gymnastics. But i have a question regarding size, im 6,6 and weighs 230 pounds, around 12% bf. Im what you would call natural big, so i will never be much lighter than 210 if i really focus on it.

Reading Coach Sommer and Pavels material i know strength is tension and it doesnt matter if u use weights, bw, combined and so on.

But if im to big to gymnastics, do you think I will meet to many dead ends and physical problems enabling me to progress, like i would be able to if i was using weights and simple bw exercises

The question summed up must be: being very big is gymnastics a good training way instead of weight in terms of getting as strong as possibly.

Best Regards

Emil

[kbryk]

Well size is a limiting factor, it shouldn't stop you from setting goals, you said you are going to work simpler body weight exercises so you shouldn't have a problem setting your goals on a tuck planche, handstands, muslce up, pull ups, dips, you could even look at skills such as back lever although it will be tough you can sight your sights on it.

As long as you work hard you will progress, it will be tougher because of your height and natural body frame.

As for the weight vs. body weight exercises, I would actually mix both for you, becoming a meat head and sitting at the gym benching and squatting won't get you anywhere as most people think it will, mix some straight arm work into your routine, handstand holds, pushups, pullups, dips.

[Tim]

Size is not a limiting factor pure strength is, my coach was 6'+ and about 200 pounds and still had a kip cross, but I will admit such is the exception. It won't be impossible just proportionately harder

[alexk]

Don't let size discourage you there have been plenty of people close to your size achieving front levers and iron crosses. Check out the faq at beastskills.com for these people. You should train in something you love not be dictated by your size/weight as to what to do.