Breaking the Silence: Challenging the Gymnastics Cartel
Advocating for Fair Competition and Athlete Safety in Gymnastics
Author’s Note: Thank you for the incredible and wide-ranging level of engagement on our first nine posts. Your support and insights have been invaluable in our mission to enhance gymnastics safety.
In light of recent injuries at the Olympic Trials, it is imperative to address the ongoing monopolistic practices within the gymnastics industry. The lack of innovation and safety prioritization has resulted in outdated equipment and a culture that tolerates preventable injuries.
The Gymnastics Cartel: A Parallel to the Tech Industry
Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the tech giant exploited its monopoly power to limit competition and innovation, ultimately resulting in higher prices for consumers. This case underscores the detrimental effects of monopolistic practices on consumer choice, innovation, and fair competition.
Interestingly, this situation mirrors what we've been experiencing in the gymnastics industry, where a small group of entities holds significant control over equipment supply and regulations, effectively creating a "Gymnastics Cartel." This monopoly-like control stifles innovation, limits access to safer equipment, and prioritizes convenience over athlete safety.
Nellie Kim, VP, International Gymnastics Federation (FIG)
“The future development of gymnastics is a complex and complicated process. Part of it involves new technique for elements and creation of new skills. But human abilities are limited, and therefore, we need new, modern gymnastics apparatus, which would help gymnasts perform new skills and at the same time provide safety.”
Impact on Gym Owners, Coaches, and Athletes
For gym owners, this means fewer options for equipment and higher costs, ultimately impacting the quality of training facilities. Coaches face limitations in implementing new techniques and training methods due to outdated equipment and regulations. And for athletes, safety concerns persist as they train and compete on equipment that may not meet the highest safety standards while also inhibiting optimal performance.
Organizational Complicity
Organizations like USA Gymnastics (USAG), NCAA, and International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) may prefer exclusive supplier agreements due to flawed business models and sponsorship agreements. These arrangements prioritize financial incentives over athlete safety, perpetuating a cycle where profit margins outweigh the well-being of gymnasts.
Ironically, USAG and AAI themselves violate USAG's own Code of Ethical Conduct, specifically in the area of communication. The Code states that withholding information or resources that could enhance athletes' enjoyment of the sport or reduce their risk of injury is inconsistent with USAG's principles.
Refusing to Deal
Examples of these transgressions include, but aren’t limited to, in 2008, AAI failing to disseminate results of their failing the FIG Apparatus test versus Weller conducted in their plant and refusing to deal. In 2009, AAI forcing Valeri Liukin to back out of his endorsement of Weller. In 2011, despite acknowledging Sands, Ph.D.’s thorough testing and research, Whitey Anson, AAI Western Regional Office, announcing they would continue using their existing spring systems, then telling me, “We are just a pimple on an elephant.” (During Sands, Ph.D.’s research, when it became obvious AAI was failing, Anson submitting a late entry “foam” that was obviously hastily prepared.) Next, AAI’s top dealer, John Deary, commenting that the floor contributing to injuries is a problem for their lawyers. In 2012, USAG and AAI canceling Bill Sands, Ph.D.’s presentation of Weller Spring Floor's safety and performance data at the Olympic Trials, and AAI and NCAA preventing widespread adoption in that league as well as USAG’s Board requesting and reviewing that same data. In 2017, ABEO's Managing Director, Jacques Janssen, signing our Confidential Disclosure and Non-Use Agreement and refusing to deal. In 2020, FIG’s Apparatus Expert reviewing and verifying Sands, Ph.D.’s safety and performance data on Weller, too. These interactions underscore the industry's reluctance to adopt new safety measures despite clear evidence of their benefits.
Potential Antitrust Violations:
Preventing new safety technologies from entering the market can be an antitrust issue. U.S. antitrust laws, like the Sherman Antitrust Act, aim to promote fair competition. Key violations include:
Monopolization: Blocking safer technologies and/or refusing to deal to maintain market power.
Exclusive Supplier Agreements: Preventing other suppliers from selling to “their customers.”
Tying Agreements: Forcing purchase of one product to buy another.
Predatory Practices: Using market power to block competition.
These practices can harm consumers by stifling innovation and maintaining high prices. Addressing these issues can help ensure fair competition and better safety standards in the industry.
The Path Forward: Innovation and Accountability
To break this cycle, the gymnastics community must demand transparency, prioritize athlete safety, and embrace innovative equipment solutions like Weller Spring Floor. By doing so, we can foster an environment where gymnasts can train and compete safely and effectively.
Gymnastics Injury Epidemic: A Call for Safer Equipment
The latest injury updates from College Gym News paint a concerning picture of the current state of gymnastics safety. Numerous athletes across various college teams have suffered severe injuries, including torn ACLs, Achilles ruptures, and other debilitating conditions. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for innovation in gymnastics equipment to better protect athletes.
Updated Injury Highlights:
Alabama: Makarri Doggette - Torn left Achilles
Arizona: Sophia Maisel - Torn left Achilles
Auburn: Caroline Leonard - Torn Achilles
Florida (committed): Skye Blakely - Torn Achilles (at Olympic Trials)
Oregon State: Sydney Gonzales - Torn right Achilles
LSU: Konnor McClain - Torn left Achilles (at USAG Core Classic)
Kayla DiCello: Torn Achilles (at Olympic Trials)
Shilese Jones: Injured knee (at Olympic Trials)
King Bars Sports’ advanced technology offers a promising solution to reduce the incidence of these severe injuries. Providing proper tuning, and enhancing shock absorption, energy dissipation, and overall stability, King Bars Sports’ technology provides a safer training environment for gymnasts.
The NCAA is well aware of our technology. In 2012, then Head Coach at UCLA, Miss Val, and Assistant Coach Chris Waller, ordered two Weller Floors after experiencing four Achilles injuries among their athletes in just three seasons. They passionately promoted Weller at every opportunity, advocating for change and inspiring other NCAA teams to consider alternatives to the status quo.
However, our efforts faced resistance when AAI intervened to maintain their monopoly on the market.
Key Findings from Our Research
Superior Shock Absorption: Weller Spring Floor demonstrates a slightly lower dominant frequency (~8 Hz) compared to traditional cylindrical springs and foam blocks (~9 Hz), indicating better shock absorption capabilities.
Enhanced Energy Transfer: In terms of impulse, which measures the total force over time, Weller showed lower values. This means Weller provides better energy dissipation, crucial for both performance and injury prevention.
Superior Rate of Force Development: Weller Spring Floor produces a higher rate of force development on the downward motion and a lower rate of force development on the upward motion. This translates to safer landings, more power on takeoff, greater control over movements, and more time in the air.
Spring Floor Safety and Performance Metrics
Insider Insights
John Deary, AAI's Top Dealer
"Injury caused by the floor and such is a problem for the lawyers. Their take is muscle overuse and poor training or poor landings are the cause of injury."
FIG Apparatus Test at AAI
During a three-day test at AAI's Jefferson, IA plant in 2008, Weller Spring Floor was evaluated using FIG standards. The test involved dropping 10kg and 20kg masses from various heights, measuring impact time, deflection, and rebound. Results showed that Weller Spring Floor meets FIG requirements with longer impact times and significantly reduced post-impact vibrations. This indicates better shock absorption and energy dissipation, making it a safer and more reliable option for gymnasts. The Weller displacement data proves a closer matched response to the athlete. However, rather than embracing this innovation, AAI chose silence, opting to conceal our findings and maintain the status quo.
Why This Matters
Consider the analogy of car manufacturers ignoring crash test results that could save lives. This is the reality gymnasts face daily. The continuous use of subpar equipment directly contributes to a high incidence of severe injuries, yet the response from governing bodies and suppliers has been silence and inaction.
Understanding Floor Synchronization and Its Impact on Performance
Biomechanists believe the spring component of the floor exercise apparatus is a major contributor to Achilles tendon and other injuries because it simultaneously increases forces being absorbed by the lower extremities and decreases the stability of the floor. There is a problem with apparatus design that has its genesis in a lack of understanding of the nature of impact, vibration, and energy return of the apparatus. Also, the fundamental frequency of current floors is about 2x the fundamental frequency of a take-off. After a few tumbling passes the floor sets up a wave pattern. When the gymnasts punch off for a big skill, the floor frequently is moving down and away from them as if they are hitting a “hole” in the floor (many report they feel this) and then as they land the floor “wave pattern” is moving back up at them. This lack of synchronization not only compromises the athlete's performance but also increases the likelihood of injury.
Weller Spring Floor’s design is a closer matched response, REDUCING peak impact force & the intensity and duration of vibrations; IMPROVING SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE.
The Hidden Flaw in Gymnastics Floors
Bill Sands, PhD, spent decades studying spring floors and discovered that gymnasts unintentionally bend their knees twice during takeoff due to floor recoil. His high-speed footage analysis revealed improper floor tuning, resulting in a rattling motion that compromises performance and safety. Akin to diving with a board that’s out of tune, this inefficiency causes extra motion, strains the legs, and increases injury risk, such as Achilles tendon ruptures.
The basic idea is that studies show that the spring floor "bottoms out" and this results in a rebound frequency of existing spring floors that is about twice as fast as the gymnast's take off. This results in the knees bending twice or a "rattle" in the floor.
With a standing-room-only crowd waiting to see Sands’ PowerPoint on Weller Floor safety and performance at the Olympic Trials in 2012, he was stopped by USAG and AAI. In the published research this data was omitted, stating, “safety and performance remain possibilities for Weller.” He was subsequently removed from his USOPC position. (Read more: Reimagine USA Gymnastics)
William A. Sands, PhD, Head of Sport Biomechanics and Engineering, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC)
“Sadly, we believe that the floor and vault board are major contributors to Achilles tendon and other injuries. In my view, there is a problem with apparatus design that has its genesis in a lack of understanding of the nature of impact, vibration, and energy return of the apparatus.”
🌟 Fine-Tuned for Gymnasts: The Weller Advantage! 🤸♀️✨
Ever wondered about the perfect "tuning" for gymnastics? Look no further! Weller Spring Floor goes beyond the ordinary, providing a precisely tuned experience for every athlete.
🎵 The Art of Tuning:
Adjustable Support: No more one-size-fits-all. The Weller system adapts to the weight and movement of each gymnast, ensuring optimal support. All sizes/weight get comparable bounce!
Reduced Vibrations: Our patented technology reduces vibrations with smoother acceleration, allowing for a smoother and more controlled performance.
Balanced Rebounding: Say goodbye to wild bounces! Weller Spring Floor's tuned response enhances timing and reduces the risk of injury.
🔍 The Weller Difference:
✅ Proper Tuning: Each element - force, impulse, vibration - is tuned for an athlete-centric experience.
✅ Easier on Athletes: With a closer-matched response, Weller Spring Floor is designed to be EASIER ON THE ATHLETE™.
🌐 Learn More: Discover the science behind proper "tuning" at Weller Spring Floor.
Scott M. Weller, Founder and Inventor, King Bars Sports, LLC
“Nothing is more important than the safety of athletes. As a company, we are committed to advancing the technology of gymnastics equipment to make the sport safer and more enjoyable for all. We are proud to introduce our latest innovation, variable pitch engineering, and are excited to work with industry leaders to prioritize the safety of gymnasts around the world.”
Call for Accountability
It is imperative to hold gymnastics organizations accountable for the continued use of outdated equipment. Ensuring athlete safety must be the top priority.
Call to Action
We urge the gymnastics community to join us in advocating for updated equipment standards. Share this post and contact your national and local gymnastics organizations to demand change. Engage your gym community as well. If you feel speaking out on athlete safety violates NCAA’s or USAG's rules, remember they haven't been particularly tidy themselves (violating their own codes, as discussed). No one should hesitate to promote athlete safety. Together, we can ensure a safer future for all athletes.
Sample Letter to USA Gymnastics and FIG
Dear USA Gymnastics and FIG,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the safety of gymnastics equipment currently in use. The recent injuries at the Olympic Trials underscore the urgent need for updating and improving the apparatus to ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes.
I urge USA Gymnastics and the FIG to reevaluate their equipment standards and consider adopting innovative solutions like Weller Spring Floor, which offers enhanced performance and safety features. It is crucial to prioritize athlete safety over financial incentives and outdated equipment.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to seeing positive changes that will safeguard our athletes and the integrity of our sport.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Conclusion
The Trials have shown us the incredible potential of our gymnasts and the pressing need to protect their health and well-being. Let us come together to ensure that every gymnast can train and compete in the safest possible environment.
Additional Resources:
For further insights and ongoing updates on gymnastics safety and equipment innovations, check out these posts:
Reimagine USA Gymnastics: Prioritizing Safety and Innovation
Welcome to Our Mission: Enhancing Gymnastics Safety with Innovation
Unlocking Gymnastics Performance: The Power of Weller’s Innovative Design
The Genesis of Spring Floor Tuning: Innovations in Sport and Entertainment
Addressing the Injury Epidemic: Advocating for Safer Gymnastics Equipment
Disrupting the Gymnastics Cartel: Weller Floor Offers Enhanced Safety and Performance
Understanding the Impact of Podium Setup and Selective Editing at the Trials
Feel free to explore these resources to deepen your understanding and support our advocacy for safer gymnastics environments.
Play Safe!
King Bars Sports, LLC
P.S. USA Gymnastics' ongoing failure to implement proven safety measures and protect athletes could potentially violate their bankruptcy settlement terms. It's crucial to address these issues to uphold athlete safety and integrity in our sport.
P.P.S. The runner-up title of this post is "Where are the ambulance chasers when we need them?" We’re kidding, sort of...
Check back on the website version of this post for updates and additional content.
US Patent No.: US 7,993,244 B2 and US Patent No.: US 8,337,368 B2
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