Each year, more than 86,000 gymnastics-related injuries are treated in hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and hospital emergency rooms.

• Always take time to warm up and stretch. Research studies have shown that cold muscles are more prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, stationary cycling or running or walking in place for 3 to 5 minutes. Then slowly and gently stretch, holding each stretch for 30 seconds.
• Check the equipment to make sure it is properly maintained.
• Equipment must be arranged to avoid the accidental collision of gymnasts with equipment or other athletes during workouts.
• The training facility should have appropriate floor padding to help reduce the force from a landing.
• Mats must be placed under the equipment and must be secured properly.
• Be knowledgeable about first aid and be able to administer it for minor injuries, such as facial cuts, bruises, or minor tendonitis, strains, or sprains.
• Be prepared for emergency situations and have a plan to reach medical personnel to treat injuries such as concussions, dislocations, elbow contusions, wrist or finger sprains, and fractures.

• A variety of footwear can be worn safely, depending on the activity, the performing surface, and the experience of the gymnast. Options include bare feet, cotton socks, special gymnastic shoes, and athletic shoes.
• You may need a variety of apparel and equipment for each event, including hand-grips; specialized footwear; wrist, ankle, or torso belts; knee, elbow, or heel pads; braces (ankle, knee, elbow, wrist); and sweat bands, socks, or tights.

• Spotting (watching and monitoring) is essential. A coach should spot gymnasts during all practice sessions when complex or challenging routines are being performed.

Source: American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine; USA Gymnastics Safety Handbook; and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's 1999 NEISS data and estimates, based on injuries treated in hospitals, doctors' offices, ambulatory care facilities, clinics and hospital emergency rooms.