17 April 2023
 Categories: Recreation & Sports, Blog

Stretching and practicing basic moves will help your young gymnast improve their skill level. Upon signing your child up for a beginner course, provide them with support during each practice session that they participate in.

Mats

Shop for polyethylene foam mats that contain vinyl covers. A flat mat and an incline mat can be used for warmup exercises and practice sessions. A flat mat is suitable for use when stretching and tumbling. An incline mat is suitable for use when attempting forward rolls and backward rolls. The incline portion of a mat will guide your child in positioning their body correctly. 

Stretching

Your child's coach will demonstrate some stretching exercises. Performing stretches will improve flexibility. Your child will likely get into the habit of stretching at the beginning of each training session. Stretches should also be performed at home during private practice sessions. After your child begins a guided gymnastic course, observe the lessons that they participate in.

Your observations will give you a good idea of how long your child should stretch, plus the amount of time that is appropriate for practicing basic skills. Follow the same type of schedule at home. Encourage your child to execute the same movements that they perform during their guided lessons.

Basic Movements

Floor exercises, light tumbling, and other basic movements should be practiced on a consistent basis. Your child should refrain from performing complicated flips and tumbling moves by themselves. A coach or an experienced gymnast should always be available to spot your child while they are executing advanced movements.

If you would like to acquire a better understanding of the proper positioning for each of the skills that your child is learning, consult with their coach. The coach will outline each of the movements that your child should practice at home. They will provide you with pointers that will help you determine if each movement is being conducted properly.

Clothing

Purchase leotards, exercise outfits, and other apparel that your child will need during formal lessons and practice sessions. Your child's coach will provide some details about the type of attire that young gymnasts are encouraged to wear during formal lessons.

Reserve sweatpants and shorts for your child to wear when they are practicing at home. If your child will eventually be competing in gymnastic activities that are held at the training center where they take lessons, make sure that the leotards are only worn during the competitions.

To begin, look for beginner gymnastics courses near you.