Background Gymnastic sports requires repetitive high load overhead movements that can lead to upper extremity injury. The scapula and the shoulder play a vital role in injury-free performance. Scapular dysfunction and glenohumeral changes in strength and range of motion (ROM) have been associated with shoulder injury in the overhead athlete.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to describe scapular position and strength, and shoulder ROM and strength variables in a population of junior and adolescent recreational and elite gymnastics in the age categories 6–18 years.

Design Descriptive study, cross-sectional design.

Setting Training sports facilities.

Participants Junior and adolescent gymnastics from different disciplines.

Risk factor assessment A clinical screening protocol, using a digital inclinometer and a hand held dynamometer, to measure strength and mobility of the shoulder girdle.

Main outcome measures (1) scapular upward rotation (UR) at several angles of arm elevation, (2) isometric scapular muscle strength (3) glenohumeral ROM, and (4) isometric rotator cuff strength.

Results Data will be collected sept-dec 2013, and will be presented at the conference.

Conclusion This study provides a descriptive profile of shoulder and scapular measurements in a population of elite and recreational gymnasts. These data may help the clinician to screen healthy gymnasts in their injury prevention program.