Gymnastics is a physically demanding sport that rewards students with lifelong benefits. Since gymnastics is technical and challenging, many parents fear that if they don’t start at the right age, their children won’t be able to participate. However, it’s never too late to start gymnastics classes, and the sport has a number of advantages at any age. Whether your child is interested in competitive gymnastics or just wants to become stronger and more flexible, you’ll find everything you need to know about enrollment below.

Your Guide to Enrolling Your Child in Gymnastics

Infants & Parents

Children as young as 18 to 36 months can enroll in gymnastics classes with a parent. These regular courses are geared toward fitness, motor skill development, rhythm, and other basic cognitive skills. Starting gymnastics at this young age will provide your child with a strong foundation that they’ll build upon as they grow. Parents and children alike will get to know the sport and make use of light gymnastics equipment, such as trampolines.

Preschool 

Many students begin with toddler gymnastics, when they start exploring the sport on their own. They’ll enjoy a variety of benefits, such as strength development, healthy bone growth, and flexibility. They’ll develop self-discipline, an appreciation for teamwork, and social skills. These new abilities will help them on and off the mat, whether by preventing obesity or by helping them excel in the classroom. Every gym is different, but most offer group classes for children ages 3 to 4 years old.

Older Children 

Many children start gymnastics between the ages of 5 and 10. Beginner classes will introduce them to the sport and develop existing skills. They’ll learn techniques that incorporate new equipment and require enhanced conditioning, from cartwheels to casting on uneven bars. This is an excellent age to instill healthy exercise habits and a sense of responsibility. 

Teenagers

Just because your child doesn’t start young doesn’t mean they can’t begin gymnastics training as a teen. At any age, they’ll reap many of the same health benefits, including disease prevention and making positive lifestyle choices. Gymnastics also boosts self-esteem through both group and individual accomplishments. Explore beginner options, including private lessons, and consider having your teen partner with a friend when first enrolling in gymnastics training. 

Whether your child is a toddler or a teen, enroll them in a class at Top Flight Gymnastics to take advantage of all the sport has to offer. As the premier gymnastics training facility in Columbia, MD, they provide an array of classes geared toward boys and girls of all ages and all levels. Owner Dale Kaestner is proud to maintain state-of-the-art equipment and encourages every gymnastics student, whether recreational or competitive, to excel. Call (410) 992-1600 today to speak with their staff, or explore their amenities online.