This list of skills is not exhaustive as cataloguing every skill would take pages, but most unlisted skills are the building blocks for progression.  For example: dish, front support, frog balance etc.

‘Badge work’ is done periodically in rotation with planning other work.  Whilst badges can be the focus of some children, they can quickly become tiresome for many others, so short periods of badge work and assessment balances the needs of the majority.

Most activities in gymnastics require a great many correct repetitions before the body acquires the appropriate strength, muscle memory and orientation skills to enable development to full skills or progressive skills.

At each stage coaches assess and evaluate these essential achievements as pre-requisites for progressing to the full skill or more difficult skills.  Coaches are trained extensively in this evaluation technique and are expected to tailor their coaching to the needs of the individual.  It is club policy and British Gymnastics guidance that skills are taught and achieved progressively with appropriate time allowed for consolidation before progression to more complex skills or combinations of skills is permitted.   We take this guidance very seriously to ensure the health of all children and to ensure risk from the sport is its absolute minimum.

As children develop at different rates and are physically and psychologically diverse, development will be variable, may go in improvement stages and plateaus, and may be restricted by their own limitations.  This means they may be taught different stages of skills to their peers, sometimes more complex, sometimes less so, sometimes completely different; this is how we ensure we meet the needs of the individual.  Aptitude for the sport does not guarantee enjoyment, just as those who enjoy the sport may not have the aptitude, we try to ensure a positive experience is given to all regardless.

Please understand that the sport of gymnastics carries inherent risks and therefore we, as a club and as trained coaches, must be in control of behaviour, development and progression. Wherever possible we endeavour to communicate this to the gymnasts and parents/carers alike and ensure our duty of care is neither neglected nor taken for granted.

We are always present before and between classes, but have very limited time to discuss every child’s development.  During the year we will endeavour to have British Gymnastics Proficiency Award sessions, open days and presentations where development can be measured and discussions can be more easily managed for those wishing to take the opportunity.  If you have more pressing concerns, please email us and request a time convenient to both parties to sit down and discuss your child. 

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