ExerciseExplorer

Categories / Family & kids

Kids Gymnastics

Tumbling, balance and strength classes.

Typical session60 min × 1/wk
Effort●●●○○ Moderate
CostLow cost
EquipmentBasic kit
WhereClub or venue
SocialIn a group
ImpactMedium impact
AgesChildren 5-12
CommitmentVery easy to stick with

How to start

Book a beginners class with qualified coaches. Children learn rolling, balance, jumping and basic skills.

How to progress

Move up levels as skills develop.

What the evidence says

Evidence: limited

We found no trials of this particular activity. The WHO recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity a week for adults, and 60 minutes a day for children.

Take care: Choose a club with qualified coaches and good equipment. Falls and overuse injuries can happen.

Sources

12-week starter plan

A weekly class.

0 of 12 weeks done

Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.

Add reminders to your calendar

Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.

Calories and weekly minutes

Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 3.8 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.

0calories per session
0calories per week
0minutes per week
0% of the 150-minute weekly guideline

Tips and common mistakes

Tips

  • Choose a qualified coach.
  • Warm up.
  • Keep it fun.

Common mistakes

  • Pushing skills too fast.
  • Skipping warm-up.
  • Overtraining.

Kit and cost

Moderate Approximate UK prices.

  • A class (about £6 to £12)
  • Fitted clothing
  • Bare feet or grip socks

Frequently asked questions

What age to start?

Many classes begin from age 2 to 4.

Is it good for coordination?

It builds balance and strength, but we found no trials.

Is it safe?

With qualified coaches.

Good for: Skill Flexibility Strength

Compare with similar options

Kids GymnasticsYouth Sports ClubsTrampoline ParksScouts and Guides
Typical session60 min × 1/wk60 min × 2/wk60 min × 1/wk90 min × 1/wk
Effort●●●○○●●●○○●●●○○●●○○○
CostLow costLow costModerate costLow cost
EquipmentBasic kitBasic kitBasic kitBasic kit
ImpactMedium impactMedium impactMedium impactLow impact
Fitness neededAny levelAny levelAny levelAny level
Evidencelimitedlimitedlimitedlimited