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Woodward EP 3: Spatial Awareness Quotient (SAQ)
Previously, we discussed the importance of strong and reliable equipment for trampoline training. Now, let’s dive into the Freestyle Trampoline Association’s uniquely developed Spatial Awareness Quotient (SAQ), which has been gaining recognition in educational circles.
What is the Spatial Awareness Quotient (SAQ)?
SAQ is a fundamental test that allows coaches to assess whether athletes not only perform a skill but also understand how to build one. This innovative approach helps coaches determine if their athletes truly comprehend training methods or are simply following instructions without full understanding.
How Does the SAQ Work?
A coach writes down different components of a trampoline skill on separate pieces of paper, including:
The required takeoff position
The number of degrees for forward or backward flips
The number of degrees for twisting
The direction (right or left)
A specific position in the air (e.g., snowboard grab)
The landing body position (feet, stomach, back, hands and knees, or seat drop)
These components are shuffled and picked at random, requiring the athlete to recreate the skill independently. This method tests both the athlete and the coach—can the athlete apply
fundamental concepts to construct a new skill, or do they only replicate exactly what they’ve been taught?
Why is SAQ Important?
Many athletes rely solely on direct coaching and struggle to apply past lessons to new, never-before-attempted skills. The Freestyle Trampoline Association has observed that even athletes with years of traditional Olympic coaching often lack the ability to break down and reconstruct skills independently. This indicates a gap in traditional coaching strategies, particularly for off-axis skills.
Bridging the Coaching Gap
To address this, the Freestyle Trampoline Association has developed a specialized Freestyle Trampoline Program designed to help athletes surpass the limitations of conventional training. By integrating SAQ principles, athletes learn to build their own skills rather than relying on rigid, coach-dependent instruction. This prevents what is known as “2-dimensional” training—where athletes can only perform pre-taught skills but struggle to create new ones without direct guidance.
SAQ and Athlete Safety
Beyond skill development, SAQ plays a crucial role in athlete safety. Coaches cannot always be present, so ensuring athletes can pass the SAQ gives coaches peace of mind. It guarantees that their athletes have the necessary problem-solving strategies to execute safe and controlled rotations, even when training independently.
What’s Next?
In our upcoming Deep Dive discussions, we’ll explore how the Freestyle Trampoline Association’s training strategy enables athletes to consistently pass the SAQ. Stay tuned for more insights into the future of freestyle trampoline education!
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