Improving the Methodology of Flexibility Development in 7-8-Year-Old Artistic Gymnasts: Age-Sensitive Periods and Training Means

The paper substantiates an improved methodology for developing flexibility in 7-8-year-old artistic gymnasts of the initial training group. The methodology is grounded in the age-specific features of children of this age, for whom flexibility is in a favourable period of development, and in current evidence on the effects of different stretching methods. It defines the training means (dynamic, static, partner-assisted and game-based exercises and preparatory technical elements), their place within a session of four parts - preparatory, main, partner and recovery - and five principles: progression, purposefulness, continuity and repetition, safety and motivation. The approbation of the methodology over 12 weeks in the Bukhara region (n = 30) showed a relative improvement of flexibility indicators of 30.8-69.6% in the experimental group against 7.9-24.6% in the control group, with moderate-to-large effect sizes (Cohen’s d = 0.73-0.85). Practical recommendations for coaches of initial training groups are formulated.