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Book 28, Question 46 · Video

How do gymnasts swing around a high bar?

Video · 1:47 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 28

On a high bar, gymnasts do swings called giant swings, spinning in full circles around the bar with the body stretched out. At the bottom of each swing the gymnast moves fastest, and the bar and hands must hold much more than the gymnast’s weight. That is why gymnasts wear leather grips, build strong shoulders, and practice with spotters and mats, because the moves are risky.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do gymnasts swing around a high bar?

The Big Idea

Gymnasts swing in giant circles around a high bar! It looks amazing. How do they hold on?

Giant Swings

Step one: Giant Swings. On a high bar, gymnasts do swings called giant swings. They spin in full circles around the bar with the body stretched out.

The Bottom

Step two: The Bottom. At the bottom of each swing, the gymnast moves fastest. The bar and hands must hold much more than the gymnast's weight.

Staying Safe

Step three: Staying Safe. That's why gymnasts wear leather grips and build strong shoulders. They practice with spotters and mats, because the moves are risky.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Protect hands. Build strength. Help catch. Soften falls.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Many high-bar routines end with a flip off the bar, called a dismount. Fastest at the bottom. Leather grips help. Mats and spotters.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up beside you, find a low, sturdy bar. Hang with your feet near the ground. Hold for five seconds. Feel how your hands hold your weight. Do not swing.

Outro

Gymnasts swing in full circles around a high bar. At the bottom they move fastest, and their hands must hold much more than their weight. So they use leather grips, build strong shoulders, and train with spotters and mats. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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