The sport of gymnastics provides a great variety of benefits for athletes of all ages...and not only for the high-skilled competitive gymnasts. This beautiful, graceful and strength-building sport has many physical and mental advantages.

Of all Olympic athletes, gymnasts are among the strongest and most flexible as they are able to manipulate their bodies in many positions, in the air, on a beam, floor, vault or bars. They learn to balance on their feet and hands and learn "cat-like" skills to right themselves to prevent injuries.

Most gymnasts do well in school as they learn how to set goals and dedicate themselves to reaching goals. And because learning gymnastics can take time to build fundamental skills, the sport promotes patience and planning, something desperately needed in this fast-paced world full of quick-fixes.

The sport of gymnastics provides a positive, nurturing environment in which to develop good self-esteem, self-confidence, respect, fairness and sense of belonging. In addition to good motor development, gymnasts develop good interpersonal skills that are invaluable life skills. Studies repeatedly show that children who participate in community sports are more likely to stay in school and less likely to use drugs and alcohol.