GYMNASTICS across Logan is seeing a spike in registrations like never before.
In August, Logan hosts the rhythmic and aerobic junior state championships at the Logan Metro Sports and Events Centre.
But that’s not why the surge in popularity, according to local officials who attribute the sport’s success to its diversity.
There are seven different gym sports, including the more traditional artistic and rhythmic disciplines. But there are also trampoline, aerobic, acrobatic and a separate category for all.
There are about 1500 athletes registered in Logan, from BabyGym through to a Fitter for Life program for over 50s.
“Gymnastics for all is a program where we encourage participation from anybody, of any age, gender, background, skill, fitness level, or experience,” a local representative said.
“Our inclusions program includes athletes with ASD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and more. We have some of these athletes compete at the Special Olympics at our State Championships in June every year.”
Performance Gymnastics and Team Gym are group activities which include elements of dance and using apparatus’ as well as gymnastics. And freestyle takes inspiration from parkour and free-running (think Ninja Warrior).
State CEO Chris Rushton said registrations were at record-breaking numbers.
“Coupled with watching our athletes on the global stage at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where Brisbane local Georgia Godwin came away with two gold and three silver medals, and Brisbane hosting the 2032 Olympics, interest in the sport is at an all-time high,” he said.
Mr Rushton also stated that interest in gymnastics has been rising as people are becoming more invested in finding avenues of physical activity that allow them to have fun and be a part of a community.
“Gymnastics is recognised as a sport that teaches people how to move and move well – such as how to balance, jump, leap, run, and hop – and it also increases strength and confidence while building social skills from an early age,” he said.
“However, the great thing about gymnastics is that these aren’t the only benefits, it’s also so much fun. We have a wide range of programs across our recreational and competitive spaces, that there really is an avenue for everyone, with no pressure to compete if that’s not for you.”
