“The girls learned a lot of elements!” Academy choreographer Ekaterina Belova talks about classes with Chinese gymnasts

Ekaterina Belova, Academy choreographer and former artist of the State Academic Folk Dance Ensemble named after Igor Moiseyev, shared how floor gymnastics classes will help athletes from China when performing elements.

“This is the base, this is the foundation. Children, when they stand on their feet, allow themselves to relax the supporting side and, accordingly, there is no understanding of how it should be. So, initially we explain everything at the bar,” she said.

She shared what recieves special attention in her classes.

“We worked with an elastic, worked on the ankle, ankle strength and also formed a beautiful instep. Particular emphasis was placed on taking the foot toward the little toe while holding the ankles together in sixth position. Even visual control, when gymnasts sit and see their feet, helps them hold their ankles correctly, which in the end will make it easier for them to stand on a high relevé, on half-toe balances and avoid injury,” Ekaterina said.

“She pointed out that the gymnasts made a lot of progress.

“The girls have learned a lot of elements, it becomes noticeable right away. Of course, some elements are easier for them, some more difficult. For example, for some reason, rotating a fouette with a foot near the ear is easy for them. The girls are so strong, they do everything on their muscles, but everything that has more to do with stretching is still a bit difficult. But the girls, it turns out, have been doing rhythmic gymnastics for only two years. And what they are doing is worthy of great respect,” she said.