37-year-old Jen Hansen Says That Her Comeback Isn’t Over Yet

Hansen is a stunt woman, the greatest female gymnast in NCAA history and almost made it back to elite competition this season. In an interview with USAG last week, Hansen said that she  has decided to keep trying to qualify for elite and make it to the Olympics next year. She will be a long shot but if she can get her consistency up and a little more difficulty she could be a dark horse. Either way, what an amazing woman and wonderful inspiration!  Some highlights below, read the full article HERE

USA Gym: When did you decide to start training in gymnastics again and why?
Hansen: I started training again two years ago because I wanted to work as a stuntwoman. It was so much fun getting back into shape and challenging myself again. If the scene called for a big skill, I wanted to be the one to do it. So I got in the gym and just started playing around with old and new skills. On the season finale taping of “Make It Or Break It,” I was asked to do my handspring front with a full. Bela Karolyi was there and encouraged me to try out for the national team. Since then, I’ve been training for elite competition.

USA Gym: What was the most difficult part of your comeback?
Hansen: The hardest part was getting my endurance level back.

USA Gym: How many hours a day did you train when trying to comeback?
Hansen: I train gymnastics four days a week. I’ve learned to listen to my body so if I need a break, I will take it.

Hansen 1994 SEC’s beam routine.

Her routines from the elite qualifier this year.

Her stunt reel.

How to Run a Successful Adult Gymnastics Program for Over 30 Years

Rick McCharles from Altadore Gymnastics (home of FX Olympic Champion Kyle Shewfelt) gave a presentation called Building and Maximizing an Adult Rec Gymnastics Program last weekend at the B.C. Gymnastics Congress. If you are a coach, gymnast, owner or manager this is a must read/watch.  If you are a gymnast who wants to keep your adult program for a long time, consider passing this on to your gym’s manager. Your vigilance matters. Show that you care and will help keep your class safe and will help build the program.

 Here are some of the points from his presentation that I strongly agree with:

  • keep former gymnasts, coaches involved / “detraining” phase for retiring competitors – I agree! Don’t lose your gymnasts. Keep them involved for life.
  • overconfident young men are the main risk in offering drop-in [open gym]  – I’d add former high level competitors with some ego, long retired who feel they can still “throw” a trick
  • great way to recruit potential coaches
  • offer speciality training for Parkour / Free Running, Capoeira and CrossFit athletes
  • all adults should be required to attend a group warm-up (15min)
  • Offer the class as late in the evening as possible – amen