Class Structure

Gymnastics Coaching Guide

Gymnastics coaching is not just about teaching the sport, but also about creating a welcoming and organized environment for both the kids and their parents. Here's a simple guide to ensure your classes run smoothly.

Pre-Class Preparation

Available in the Lobby

  • Arrive a few minutes early and be available in the lobby to greet parents and kids as they come in.
  • This is a great time to establish a connection and make everyone feel welcomed and at ease.

Gather the Kids

  • Once most of the kids have arrived, gather them in a designated area. This ensures you have everyone's attention and can get started on time.
  • Quickly address any questions or concerns the kids or parents might have.

Commence the Class

Stay on Track with the Rotation Board

  • Have a rotation board visibly displayed which lists the events/activities for the day.
  • Stick to the sequence. This helps maintain structure and ensures each kid knows what to expect.
  • Make sure not to spend too much time on any one event. It's essential to balance out the time and give every activity its due.

Water Breaks

  • Kindergym: Plan for one water break during the class. If it's mid-summer or particularly hot, be attentive and provide extra breaks if needed.
  • 60-Minute Classes & Intermediate Classes: Typically, two water breaks should suffice. However, always be attentive to the needs of the kids, and offer more if required.

Conclude the Class

Finish 5 Minutes Early

  • Aim to finish the activities 5 minutes before the class's official end time.
  • Use this time for an end-of-class lineup, distributing stickers, or any other concluding activity.

Engage with Parents

  • Once you've wrapped up with the kids, make your way back to the parents. Check in with them, provide feedback, or address any questions.
  • It’s crucial to keep the communication lines open. This builds trust and ensures parents are involved in their child's progress.

Transition to the Next Class

Plan for Back-to-Back Classes

  • If you have consecutive classes, ensure there's a smooth transition from one class to the next.
  • If possible, glance at the lobby occasionally during the concluding minutes of the current class. By seeing who has arrived, you can anticipate the needs of the next class and be prepared.

Final Thoughts

Remember, your primary role is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and educational environment for the kids. Always keep their well-being as the top priority. Every class might not go as perfectly planned, and that's okay. The key is to adapt, remain patient, and always strive for improvement. Happy coaching!