Top tips from an instructor
Meet Kira, one of our gymnastics and trampolining pros!
We know gymnastics and trampolining are brilliant ways to stay healthy, get active, and make new friends. But what’s often overlooked is how the skills gained – like balance, coordination, and confidence – can boost your enjoyment of other sports, activities, and everyday life more than you might expect!
Not only are gymnastics and trampolining fun to learn, both sports are a joy to teach. It’s something that Kira, a Trampolining and Gymnastics Instructor at The Bridge Leisure Centre, resonates with.
When Kira was a child, she was always really active, so it came as no surprise that she started gymnastics lessons when she was 8!
“I absolutely loved gymnastics as it's such fun environment and there was always something new to learn.” Kira says.
After beginning her gymnastics journey, she then gave trampolining a try - a sport which took her across the UK!
“At the age of 10, I tried out trampolining and I've loved it ever since. I joined a competitive club and started competing, initially at a low level but I made my way up to national level competing all over the country. I loved the atmosphere of trampolining as you could work on your own specific goals, and I love a challenge."
Competing nationally in trampolining meant Kira learnt the ropes of many complex somersaults, her favourite being a full back, which is a full twist in a straight back somersault. Impressive!
Kira knew she wanted to pass on her love for gymnastics and trampolining to other People and help more children get involved. So, she started coaching trampolining when she was 16.
“I love coaching because whenever a child learns a new skill, their whole face lights up and it is amazing to see. My all-time favourite skill to teach in trampolining is a back somersault, as it's such a milestone with the children's development.”
In her years of coaching, Kira has picked up some helpful hacks and tactful tips to keep learners motivated and confident!
Below are Kira's tips to help you master new gymnastics and trampolining skills!
Practicing at home
Coordination, strength, and cardiovascular endurance are key components of fitness in gymnastics and trampolining, and they’re things that can be worked on while you’re at home!
“You could practice jumping squats to strengthen your legs and improve your bounce height, jumping jacks to improve your cardiovascular endurance, and even a pike and staddle fold to improve your flexibility.”
“Holding an arch position for 10 seconds at a time can improve your core strength and then heel raises can strengthen the muscles in your calves. For coordination, forward and backwards rolls work great!” Kira says.
Remember the basics
There are a few basic tips that can be applied to all aspects of Gymnastics and Trampolining. These include engaging your core or looking at one spot to help balance. “I often put a brightly coloured beanbag for children to keep their eyes on, then they have a "staring competition" with that beanbag to ensure they are looking in the correct place.” Kira recommends.
Fuelling up
Finally, making sure you’re eating enough before and after a lesson is a must. Food is fuel after all!
It’s important to have a light snack before a lesson so that the body has the energy it needs to stay focused, feel energised, and keep on moving! Kira’s go-to snack is a handful of pretzels, but she also recommends eating a piece of fruit like a banana, or an apple for some quick energy before a lesson.
As with any sport, taking part and having fun are the most important parts! The more you enjoy what you do, the more you’ll improve.
“Trampolining and gymnastics are great sports to take part in – they’re always enjoyable and engaging. After all, you’re there to have a fun time, make new friends and learn!” Kira says.
Gymnastics and trampolining both make a fantastic option for a fun after-school activity, a new hobby, or something to do alongside another physical activity! No matter your age or ability, we have a place for People to get started.
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