WHY GYMNASTICS?

…beyond physical fitness. Here’s an article by Nancy Thies Marshall, a 1972 Olympian, five-time national team member, former national Vault and Balance Beam champion, and collegiate All-American. She is currently the developer and manager of USA Gymnastics Athlete Wellness Program and a freelance journalist.

What’s So Great About Gymnastics?

by Nancy Thies Marshall

Study after study confirm that kids involved in sports, including gymnastics, are more likely to stay away from drugs, score higher on achievement tests, stay in school, have greater self-esteem and live a healthier lifestyle. Show me a child in a healthy athletic environment and I’ll show you a child learning motor development, interpersonal relationship skills, perseverance, discipline, commitment, humor, perspective, teamwork, humility and leadership. And the kids think they’re just having fun!

No doubt about it, sport enhances life. And for those with a penchant for variety and challenge, the local gymnastics club might be a great place to hang out. Following are the five most important reasons why learning a cartwheel is a valuable investment.

1. Gymnastics is a multifaceted sport

This is a sport that develops physical strength, speed, agility, nerves of steel, and competitive prowess. Additionally, women must wrap that package of athleticism in grace and personality. Not many sports draw upon such a wide range of ability. Within the three main gymnastics disciplines (Men’s and Women’s Artistic and Rhythmic), there are as many as 15 different individual events, each with unique challenges and thrills. Add General Gymnastics and Trampoline and Tumbling, and opportunities in the sport are endless.