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Gymnastics are one of the most unique and exciting activities that your child or teen can practice. It offers a huge range of benefits such as strength and coordination. Plus it helps burn off some of that extra energy they have!
An introductory gymnastics class will give them a taste of all the different types of activities there are. But if they want to pursue gymnastics more competitively, they may want to choose an area to specialize in. However, there’s no rush for that. Each gymnastic activity is thrilling and good for their health no matter what level they are currently at. Below you can learn about a few areas your child can specialize in and see what fits them best.
Aerials
Aerial arts are very popular these days. Think Cirque du Soleil. They often involve a variety of dance and acrobatic movements using silks, hoops, and straps. At the beginning level, participants typically practice with hammocks. Aerial silks offer a great opportunity to work on strength and flexibility without an intense impact.
Trampoline
Trampoline is not only an excellent cardiovascular activity, it offers an excellent opportunity for practicing floor exercises without the stress of impact. It’s also great for balance and for toning the pelvic area and upper legs.
Floor
An introductory floor class or workshop will offer participants an opportunity to try a number of activities. Rhythmic gymnastics may appeal to those who are interested in elements of dance while tumbling is an excellent way to “learn” how to fall safely.
Bars
Kids gymnastics classes usually offer a single bar rather than the traditional uneven or parallel bars used at higher levels. They are an excellent way to increase upper body strength. Kids probably will take to them just as easily as playing on the monkey bars on the playground.
Beam
Beam exercises are an excellent way to work on balance. Young kids and beginners will work on a balance beam that is very low to the ground. Sometimes the beam is actually on the ground to start but eventually, they will work their way up to greater heights.
Rings
Many kids will already be familiar with rings from being on the playground. This early exposure may make it easier for them to pull themselves up and swing around. This is one of the best movements for all-around upper body strength.
Vault
Like the beam, the vault will likely be placed close to the ground until beginners and children work their way up. Vaulting is about speed and power and may involve a variety of movements from splits to handsprings.
Enrolling your kids in gymnastics offers them an excellent opportunity to try many different activities. Just make sure they choose a path that feels right for them. Whether they lean toward more rules-based or little more creative activities. No matter which road they take, they’re bound to find more confidence and better coordination. These skills can take them a long way in life and I’m sure they will.
If you’re in the Toronto area and you’re interested in finding out more about gymnastics for kids and teens, visit the webpage http://fitforlifegroup.com for more information about youth gymnastics programs. You can also do a simple Google search in your area to find the closest gymnastic facilities to you.
Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
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Thank you for the post on the 7 different gymnastics activities for your kids and their benefits. I think aerials are an awesome aspect of gymnastics for really anyone to get into. You have to use your whole body and focus on coordination and execution. It’s a great way for kids to have fun and get exercise and for adults to stay in shape and maintain proper form.
Aerials are amazing to watch and such great exercise. These activities are even better when done together as a family!
My grandsons LOVE gymnastics. The older one (7) has become addicted to the rings, just like his grandfather was when he was young! Must be the genes…
I think that would be so fun to watch. My boys just didn’t get into it for some reason although they are always bouncing off the walls at home. Go figure LOL.