Gymnastics Strength Training (GST) Guru – Paul Watson

Paul Watson is founder and master trainer at TransformGST, which is an NYC-based gymnastic strength training facility for adults. He has a strong foundation in biochemical and biomechanics sciences. Paul also has certifications in medical exercise and works with people pre and post surgeries. We cover the differences between GST and other forms of exercise such as traditional weight lifting as well as other sports such as running and adult sports.

SELECTED QUOTES

Strength = Flexibility + Endurance + Aerobic Conditioning."

– on building strength and mobility through specific gymnastic strength training movement patterns

Mobility is a form of strength. What underlies a tight muscle is, in fact, a weak muscle."

– on the importance of working on mobility

Strengthening connective tissue closer to your joints is the key to true strength."

- on the capacity to support greater load and strength

EPISODE MARKERS

A Perfect Handstand on the Brooklyn Bridge

‍2:54 Minute Marker
What is Gymnastics Strength Training
Importance of core strength

5:05
Works muscles that aren’t traditionally trained
Different moving patterns

8:05
Differences between GST and traditional weight training and other sports that you may have done / are doing
Straight arm strength
Vertical support, i.e. handstand

10:55
Hamstrings, groin, straight leg movement

11:30
2-3 intro elements of GST
Think about where your body is most inhibited and focus there
Forward bend palming the floor
Sitting in a straddle with straight needs; bring chest to floor

13:35
Building strength with GST

14:50
Gymnastic rings

17:55
Muscles strengthen at different rates

19:03
Importance of working areas higher up in a join
Allows you to support greater load and mobility and, thus, develop strength

21:02
Single leg squat

24:30
Movements you can do at home
Spend more time on floor
Full range squat
Hollow body movement for core strength
Arch support movement / seal stretch
Back bridge / wheel

29:43
Mobility vs. flexibility
Focus on ‘end ranges’ of a position is more towards mobility

33:01
Gear for beginners

34:30
Difference between doing push-ups and dips on rings vs. doing push-ups on the floor and using a dip bar

36:37
Generating tension creates stability
Developing full-body tension while moving in positions

GUEST FOOTNOTES

TransformGST (incl. their current online classes)

Paul Watson on Instagram

TransformGST on youTube

Yoga block

Olympic rings

Theraband

5 - 50 pound hand weights