Gymnastics for children
Gymnastics classes are a brilliant way for your child to develop her balance, strength … and have fun. Here’s all you need to know about getting started.
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Your child probably likes nothing better than rolling around on the grass or jumping as high as she can in the air. Meaning she’s halfway to becoming a gymnast already.
And thanks to Olympic role models like Max Whitlock, Amy Tinkler and Louis Smith, gymnastics is increasingly popular with both girls and boys.
Here’s all you need to know about getting your child started in gymnastics ... and how to find a gymnastics club near you.
What age can my child start gymnastics?
You can start your child at a gymastics class as early as you like. A lot of clubs run play-based classes for children aged from around one.
More formal classes – where children learn proper gymnastics skills – start from five or six.
Spaces tend to be limited so it’s worth getting yourself on a waiting list at your local gymnastics club.
What kit do you need?
When your child is a toddler or preschooler, most gymnastics clubs are happy for her to wear a t-shirt and leggings or tracksuit bottoms.
When she moves on to an after school class, she’ll probably need a leotard and leggings.
Why is gymnastics so good for kids?
Gymnastics is an all-round sport that helps your child build strength, flexibility and self-confidence.
And the skills learnt in a gymnastics class compliment other sports. For example, your child’s agility skills will also be useful in football or rugby.
Olivia Kincaid from The Gym Academy in Somerset says, ‘Gymnastics is really good for co-ordination so if your child has just learnt to walk it can help her go on to learn how to run and jump.
‘As your child gets a bit older she’ll learn how to roll and fall effectively and safely. This might sound a bit strange, but if she were to fall in the playground for example, she’ll know how to fall in a safe way.’
Types of gymnastics
Trampoline gymnastics
Some clubs also offer trampolining classes for preschoolers and older children.
These are another great way for your child to learn coordination and develop her flexibility and balance. Younger children will love bouncing around, while older children can learn big-air stunts.
Find a trampoline club near you.
Rhythmic gymnastics
This is only for girls and involves floor work with five different bit of equipment: ribbons, balls, hoops, clubs and rope.
As with other dance classes, it's a great way for your child to develop her rhythm and flexibility.
Artistic gymnastics
This is the most popular type of gymnastics. The different activities your child will learn include vault, balance beam and floor exercises.
Find a gymnastics club near you
Check our local listings for gymnastics clubs near you.
And if you're looking for other activities for your child, why not take a look at our need-to-know pages on everything from ball sports for children and martial arts through to music and swimming.
How many clubs do your kids go to? Why not join the chat in our Coffeehouse forum, below.
