| What
is the difference between Recreational gymnastics and
pre-competitive or competitive Team gymnastics programs?
Both
recreational and competitive gymnastics promote fun, fitness,
confidence and commitment. Although anyone can participate in
recreational gymnastics, competitive gymnastics on the other
hand normally requires an invitation onto the team by the
team coach. Beyond the competitive element, competitive
gymnastics requires a bigger time commitment compared to the
once per week recreational classes. Competitive gymnasts’
time commitment to practice, compete and participate in
fundraising events normally increases as they progress through
the levels of gymnastics. Furthermore, team involvement
usually means higher expectations of the athlete’s ability
and behavior such as technical proficiency, dedication, and
team work. Finally, cost also increases with higher tuition
fees, competitions/travel expenses, and team uniforms.
Nonetheless, team involvement may become the most significant
experience in a child’s life. They learn self-discipline,
group work, leadership, and good sportsmanship among many
other life skills. Each individual family must decide which
program to participate in based on their child’s goals,
interests, and family finances.
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