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What to Consider When Choosing a Gymnastics Class for Your Child 

7 min read

If you’re looking for gymnastics classes for kids, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed by all the options. Whether your child is a beginner gymnast or just wants to have fun and stay active, finding the right gymnastics club is key to ensuring they have the best experience possible. 

We wish to turn an active lifestyle into a habit of life, so enrolling your child on the most fun and engaging class will give them a higher chance of falling in love with the sport! 

At Gymfinity Kids, we know that every child is different, and the right class can make all the difference in their confidence, skills, and enjoyment. So, what should you look for when choosing a children’s gymnastics class? Take a look below to find out the key things to consider. 

1. The Gym’s Reputation and Coaching Standards 

One of the first things to check is the reputation of the gymnastics club. Look for clubs that are affiliated with official gymnastics affiliations, as this ensures they follow high coaching and safety standards. At Gymfinity Kids, we work closely with the Independent Gymnastics Association and experts, such as Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle

Reviews and testimonials from other parents can give insight into what to expect from a club’s classes. 

Experienced and qualified coaches are crucial in helping children develop their skills safely while making classes fun and engaging. Don’t hesitate to ask about the coaches’ qualifications, experience, and approach to teaching. 

2. Class Structure and Skill Levels 

Children develop at different rates, so it’s important to find a gymnastics class that suits your child’s ability and goals. Some gyms offer structured programs where children progress through skill levels, while others focus more on fun and fitness. 

Ask about how the classes are structured: 

  • Are there beginner, intermediate, and advanced groups? 
  • Is there a clear progression path if your child wants to develop their skills? 
  • How often do children move up to the next level? 

A well-structured program will keep your child engaged and motivated to learn more! At Gymfinity Kids, we have an in-house Award Scheme that has skills that the child must complete before they can move up a level. We offer beginner gymnastics, intermediate gymnastics and advanced gymnastics, and each of these has its own levels. 

As the children master each skill or complete a level, parents are notified of the completion via email. These notifications will relay what skills the child has learnt in class and provide visibility of the skills they are working towards in the future. 

You can view the Award Scheme skills and levels per activity below! 

Preschool Award Scheme 

Gymnastics Award Scheme 

Ninja Award Scheme 

3. Safety Measures and Equipment 

Safety should be a top priority when choosing a gymnastics club. The best gyms invest in high-quality equipment and have clear safety guidelines in place. Look for: 

  • Well-maintained mats, beams, and bars. 
  • Proper safety padding around the apparatus. 
  • A coach-to-child ratio that allows for supervision and individual attention. 

You might also want to check if the gym has first aid-trained staff and protocols for dealing with injuries. 

4. A Fun and Positive Environment 

Gymnastics should be fun! A supportive, encouraging atmosphere helps children build confidence and enjoy learning new skills. If possible, visit the club to watch a class in action. Are the children engaged and happy? Do the coaches provide positive reinforcement? 

There are some gyms, like our Gymfinity Kids clubs, that focus on making gymnastics fun and accessible while still helping children develop essential skills like balance, coordination, and strength. 

We also celebrate core values that can help children develop beyond their physical abilities. From teamwork to determination, we celebrate any time the children demonstrate values that promote healthy behaviour. With our Values Recognition Scheme, we are committed to making Gymfinity Kids an even more rewarding place for your child to learn, grow, and thrive. 

5. Location and Schedule 

A great gymnastics club won’t be helpful if the class times don’t fit into your family’s schedule. When choosing a gymnastics gym for your child, be sure to inspect their timetable to see if it’s a good fit for you and your family. 

Some things to consider are: 

  • Proximity to home or school – A convenient location will make it easier to stick to a regular routine. 
  • Class times – Are there sessions available that fit around school and other commitments? 
  • Flexibility – Does the club offer trial classes or flexible membership options? 

Gymfinity Kids has over 20 clubs scattered across England. We have 11 flagship clubs that are purpose-built venues with spring flooring and equipment that caters for beginners through to advanced gymnastics. 

We also have 13 community clubs (and that list is growing!) that offer gymnastics classes in the heart of communities, in school halls, leisure centres and community halls. Although these smaller clubs don’t have as advanced equipment as our flagship clubs, they are brilliantly designed to introduce children to gymnastics and get them active from a young age. 

Explore our clubs here! 

6. Opportunities for Progression 

If your child shows a passion for gymnastics, you might want to choose a club that offers opportunities to progress into competitive gymnastics or other related activities like trampolining or acrobatics. Some clubs also offer performance squads or invite gymnasts to participate in local competitions. 

Our Gymfinity Kids coaches look out for gymnasts who show potential to join our squads! Our squad members have intensive training sessions and a minimum number of competitions they need to attend – it’s a big commitment, so it’s not compulsory for them to join if they’ve been selected for the squad team. However, it unlocks a whole new level of training and performance! 

7. Trial Classes and Parent Involvement 

Many clubs offer trial classes, allowing your child to experience a session before committing. This is a great way to see if they enjoy it and feel comfortable with the coach and environment. 

It’s also worth asking how involved parents can be. Some clubs have parent viewing areas, while others encourage independent learning to help children build confidence. 

At Gymfinity Kids, you can book a free gymnastics or ninja taster class to allow your child to see if they like the activity and the club! There is no obligation to enrol on a membership after attending your free taster class, but your class will be reserved for 24 hours if you so wish to sign up. 

Finding the Right Gymnastics Class for Your Child 

Choosing the right gymnastics class is about finding the best fit for your child’s personality, skill level, and goals. Whether they dream of being a future Olympian or just want to have fun and stay active, a well-run gymnastics program can help them build strength, confidence, and coordination. 

At Gymfinity Kids, we offer fun, safe, and structured gymnastics classes across England, helping children develop a lifelong love of movement. If you’re looking for the best gymnastics classes near you, why not book a trial session and see what we’re all about? 

Let’s get flipping, tumbling, and having fun! 

If you have any questions at all, please get in touch with our friendly Member Service team, who will be more than happy to help. You can contact them at info@gymfinitykids.com or 01908 032050. 

Alternatively, check out our extensive FAQ’s which address all aspects of being a Gymfinity Kids member! 

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