When people think of gymnastics they usually think skills, agility, and strength are key components to a good gymnast. Although these are wonderful attributes to have, there are many other great characteristics that come from participating in gymnastics.
Separation
As soon as the gymnast steps out on the floor they no longer have the secure feeling of a parent right by their side. They must learn to cope with their surroundings and adjust to their new environment. Separating the child from their parent at a young age allows the child to prepare for going to school, and prevents separation anxiety. The more the child steps out of their comfort zone at a young age, the more prepared they will be for what is to come in their future.
Following Directions
In a gymnastics class the child is expected to sit, listen, and then follow multi-step directions. The more experience they have with this at a young age, the easier it will be for them to follow directions on a daily basis. This improves memory since the child will have to remember what to do at each station.
Patience
It is hard for a young child to wait their turn in an environment that is fun and engaging. Students are expected to wait in line and take their turn when using the gymnastics equipment. This may not come easy, but over time the child will improve this trait. Patience is also taught in gymnastics when they are trying to conquer a new skill. The gymnast may fail a few times before mastering a skill. They will learn it is alright to make mistakes since you learn from them.
Cooperation
Children are placed in small groups where they must learn to work together to accomplish motor skills, movements, and drills. The students will quickly figure out that working together for a common purpose is fun and can be easy.
Interaction
Good manners and respect are taught throughout the weeks as the child works with their peers and instructor. Gymnasts must learn to respect their instructor and people around them. The shy students will come out of their shell and learn to speak up and ask for help when needed.
Persistence
Gymnastics can be a challenging sport; some skills take time and patience to perfect. Gymnasts must be persistent to achieve even simple skills. A try, try again attitude is learned throughout the weeks. They will find that nothing good ever comes easily. The child will learn that the more effort they put forth the more success they will receive.
Coordination
Gymnastics teaches more than just skills. Hand-eye coordination, strength, balance, and flexibility are just some of the many skills gymnastics builds. These skills are useful in our everyday lives and are the building blocks to all other sports.
Self-confidence
When a child achieves a goal they have been striving for, their self-confidence will soar. They learn to believe in their self and will have better self-esteem. If the child learns to work together, follow directions, be patient, persistent, and know that they are able to be an independent learner they will be proud of their self. Confidence goes hand and hand with many attributes to their daily lives. When self-confidence is built in the gym, parents will also notice a difference in their child’s life at school and home. Who wouldn’t want their child to be confident?
With all the technology around us, it is a good idea to get your child out of the house and active in gymnastics. The traits gymnastics teaches will help them with any challenge thrown their way.
Summer Enrollment is now underway at American Gymnastics Chesterfield and American Gymnastics Romeo. Classes begin on June 20th at both locations! Have a vacation planned this summer and hesitant to commit to a weekly class? Now worries! Both locations offer unlimited make-up classes within the 9 week session for which your child is registered.
For summer schedules, you can check out the American Gymnastics Romeo website or call them at 586-752-3547 and check out the American Gymnastics Chesterfield website or call them at 586-598-0400
Summer Enrollment is now underway at American Gymnastics Chesterfield and American Gymnastics Romeo. Classes begin on June 20th at both locations! Have a vacation planned this summer and hesitant to commit to a weekly class? Now worries! Both locations offer unlimited make-up classes within the 9 week session for which your child is registered.
For summer schedules, you can check out the American Gymnastics Romeo website or call them at 586-752-3547 and check out the American Gymnastics Chesterfield website or call them at 586-598-0400
