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Stopping gymnastics

7 replies

Juliancantcope · 24/08/2025 17:47

Earlier this summer we started a weekly gymnastics class for my 5 year old DD after she requested to try it … the first few weeks she loved going but a month in she’s showing reluctance about going. Having sat in on a class I can see why she’s losing interest- she’s probably the least experienced child in the class and can’t do cartwheels or spring jumps like the others. It’s also quite serious .. not many games but focus on form and drilling. They are very kind and patient teachers though.

I’ve told her she can give up if she wants but it’s a shame as she’s made quite a bit of progress in the few weeks she’s been going - can do a straight forward roll instead of veering of to the side / can balance waking backwards on the bar. She’s a bit uncoordinated generally and the discipline of the exercises seem to help her regulate.

Should I coax her into trying a few more classes? or stop now as she’s not naturally talented in this area and it’s always going to be a bit of a struggle/ she probably will always be the child in the class that takes the longest to get the hang of a new move ( I was like this but worse- I have dyspraxia). She’s got football booked in for next term at school so she is getting some extra physical activity already. This might be enough?

OP posts:
Michele09 · 24/08/2025 17:52

Could you try a free session in a martial art. My dd swapped from gymnastics to karate. Many will offer a free taster lesson.

Juliancantcope · 24/08/2025 17:57

That’s actually a very good idea. Her dad did Akido when he was younger and swears by the benefits. He uses lots of the practices like being centred in daily life even now.

OP posts:
Silverbirchleaf · 24/08/2025 18:16

Is there another gym club she could join, one that is more fun?

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RandomMess · 24/08/2025 18:20

She could try recreational Cheer they tend to progress quicker with the tumbles and it’s more “fun” as you do stunts in groups. Everyone participates regardless of whether they are really good or weaker.

Juliancantcope · 24/08/2025 18:25

Silverbird - it’s definitely an option. The club we go to is thought to be the best in our area but it might not be the right fit for DD.

OP posts:
Juliancantcope · 24/08/2025 18:42

Recreational cheer sounds amazing thank you - a little far from us but good to know for the future.

OP posts:
Arran2024 · 24/08/2025 18:46

It will be hard going for her and could dent her confidence. Have you considered ballet or horse riding? Both are good for posture. No one really cares if you can do a forward roll or not but having good posture is always a nice to have.b

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