Women's Artistic Gymnastics

<p>This book lifts the lid on the high pressured complex world of women’s artistic gymnastics. By adopting a socio-cultural lens incorporating historical sociological and psychological perspectives it takes the reader through the story and workings of women’s artistic gymnastics.</p><p>Beginning with its early history as a ‘feminine appropriate’ sport the book follows the sport through its transition to a modern sports form. Including global cases and innovative narrative methods it explores the way gymnasts have experienced its intense challenges the complexities of the coach-athlete relationship and how others involved in the sport such as parents and medical personnel have contributed to the reproduction of a highly demanding and potentially abusive sporting culture.</p><p>With the focus on a unique women’s sport the book is an important read for researchers and students studying sport sociology sport coaching and physical education but it is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in the development of sporting talent.</p>