In August 2012, I wrote a lamentation about the seeming lack of lyricism, fluidity and artistry on display during the Olympics' women's gymnastics routines.
"Raw, explosive power? Yes. Bare-knuckled competition? Of course. Unparalleled muscular athleticism? Beyond a doubt. ... [But] the pervasive get-'er-done-quick flicking movements robbed balance beam, floor and rhythmic performances of balletic grace and replaced it with competitive cheerleading's snap and speed," I complained.
Back then, I was bewildered by the change. Now, after reading journalist Dvora Meyers' meticulous and surprising book, "The End of the Perfect 10: The Making and Breaking of Gymnastics' Top Score — from Nadia to Now," it's obvious how it happened.
Read more...
http://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20160807/esther-cepeda-beyond-the-perfect-10
Back then, I was bewildered by the change. Now, after reading journalist Dvora Meyers' meticulous and surprising book, "The End of the Perfect 10: The Making and Breaking of Gymnastics' Top Score — from Nadia to Now," it's obvious how it happened.
