Tumbling Basics

Description

This title gives an introduction to gymnastics. "Tumbling Basics" helps teachers new to gymnastics break down each of seven basic skills into small, easy-to-teach steps and learn how to safely teach the essential skills needed for gymnastics. It also includes exercises to help students improve their strength and flexibility in order to perform skills successfully. Clear instructions on error spotting techniques help teachers learn to safely guide students through difficult skills and safety guidelines, and help them to create an environment where students can practice safely.

Kathleen M. Ortiz is an instructor in the physical education department at Boston University. She is also an instructor in the physical education department at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge. Ortiz was an adjunct professor for 10 years, teaching tumbling and gymnastics to future physical educators at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey. She has coached athletes in gymnastics and cheerleading up to the Olympic level for more than 40 years and served as a gymnastics official in colleges for more than 30 years. Ortiz has been involved with the Special Olympics for more than 35 years. She has owned a gymnastics club and directed gymnastics programs, and she has been a head coach and written manuals for gymnastics clubs. Ortiz received her bachelor of science degree in education from Ohio State University. She has been involved in many professional associations, such as USA Gymnastics and National Association of Women's Gymnastics Judges. Ortiz served as the state education director in New Jersey for eight years and in Illinois for three years and is safety certified in gymnastics. She also served as the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) gymnastics rules interpreter from 2000 to 2011. Ortiz was president of the State Gymnastics Officials for five years.