Adult Gymnastics Class: Review and Benefits

It seems I’m not alone in feeling inspired, as TikTok is full of videos showcasing others trying out adult gymnastics classes. Some have found it to be a fun way to break out of their comfort zones, while others have been looking to spice up their workout routines.

This led me to register for an evening class at Cirque de Vol in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Hopping into the World of Adult Gymnastics

The introductory tumbling and acrobatics class I attended had around eight participants. The instructor guided us through stretches and exercises, teaching us tricks like cartwheels and forward rolls. We were then given time to practice and improve on our chosen skills.

While I have always admired elite gymnasts like Simone Biles, this class gave me a newfound appreciation for the hard work and talent that goes into their performances. Let’s just say my adult cartwheels look quite different (and not as graceful) compared to those from my childhood.

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As an adult, I found myself less fearless when attempting handstands against a wall or doing forward rolls that felt a bit risky.

However, learning how to perform cartwheels, round-offs, handstands, and other maneuvers was incredibly enjoyable. It stirred up memories of my youth, twisting my body in all sorts of ways on the living room floor. I am grateful for the opportunity to challenge my body with new and complex movements.

When I stumbled during a cartwheel or felt disoriented after a quick roll, I reminded myself to approach it with the same patience and resilience as a child. This shift in mindset helped me to embrace the class more and focus on improvement rather than perfection.

The Benefits of Adult Gymnastics Classes

During conversations with my fellow class members—some beginners and others with more experience—I learned about the various reasons why they enjoyed these classes.

“I love that there’s always something new to learn,” said Jennifer Peavy, who had been attending the class for five months. “I enjoy pushing my own limits and seeing how far I can progress.”

While not everyone had a gymnastics background, those who did, like Jody Robertson, shared their love for the sport. “Being a former gymnast, I have a deep appreciation for gymnastics,” she said, having returned to the sport intermittently over the past six years.

Yes, I also had a newfound respect for the dedication and skill of elite gymnasts like Simone Biles after participating in this class.

Participants appreciated the difference between gymnastics and traditional gym workouts, finding the former more enjoyable and engaging. “I prefer this over a typical gym session,” Robertson explained. “It’s much more fun for me.”

Research published in Frontiers in Psychology highlights the importance of interest and enjoyment in sustaining long-term engagement in physical activity, emphasizing the value of enjoyable exercise.

From a mental health perspective, the social aspect of gymnastics classes can be particularly beneficial. According to Mena Wiser, the class instructor with years of experience, the group setting fosters a supportive and motivating environment, contrasting with the isolation often felt at traditional gyms.

Physically, adult gymnastics classes target muscles in unique ways, promoting strength and agility over just muscle mass.

Finding an Adult Gymnastics Class Near You

If you’re intrigued by the idea of trying out an adult gymnastics class, finding one in your area may be simpler than you think. A quick search for “adult gymnastics classes near me” on Google can lead you to various resources such as Reddit recommendations, local fitness class compilations, and listings on platforms like Yelp.

As I reflect on my recent class experience, feeling the aftermath in my tight hamstrings, I’m reminded that rediscovering a sense of childlike joy and resilience is possible even in adulthood.