Benefits of Gymnastics

Gymnastics prepares children to participate in almost any other sport. Gymnastics develops fundamental body management skills via the movement patterns of Landings, Statics, Locomotions, Rotations, Swings, Springs and Object Manipulations. Through the development of these fundamental movement patterns, children develop a full range of physical abilities (endurance, strength, power and flexibility) and motor abilities (agility, balance, coordination and speed).

Specifically, participation in gymnastics will:

• Enhance development of brain function, coordination, social skills, gross motor skills, emotions, leadership and creativity
• Help participants build confidence, independence and positive self esteem
• Support healthy growth and development: build strong bones and muscles, improve flexibility, develop good posture and balance, improve fitness, promote relaxation, improve sleep and promote healthy weight
• Help participants move skillfully and enjoy being active
• Provide participants with a movement base that will support lifelong enjoyment and participation in almost any sport

(adapted from Long Term Athlete Development, Gymnastics Canada 2008)