Is Gymnastics A True Sport?

“The majority of people who get in the sport of gymnastics do not go to the Olympics or get a Division 1 scholarship, but it doesn't mean that they can't get something positive from the sport.” -Dominique Dawes. Gymnastics is a sport not many recognize as a true sport. However this sport is beneficial to creating a better mind and body for athletes. Athletes in gymnastics become stronger in their mind through teamwork and individuality, and stronger, healthier and more enduring in their body.

Conditioning; a workout before practicing the sport, a period of time making all your muscles stronger, countless exercises designed for strength, these are all ways to describe conditioning. Dr. Campbell at Hinsdale Pediatrics claims that conditioning,

Teamwork is a very important skill and you can get it from being on a team. Working with others is a skill used in school, in the workplace, and in activities. Some people may say that you do not use teamwork in gymnastics. However, whether helping each other on a new skill or supporting each other in competition and when trying new things, teamwork is woven into gymnastics. Friendship is also a bonus from being on a team and it’s important to have in life. All the friends I have made at gymnastics are still my friends. My best friends, who do it with me, have gotten even closer. At competitions we cheer each other on hysterically, excitedly screaming at each other when a teammate sticks the landing on their newest skill. I can remember an instance when everyone cheered me on. I was practicing on high beam and right before the judge called me I landed my skill for the first time, so when I stuck the landing in front of the judge, immense applause from team followed. Being on a team gives you important skills you will use throughout your

A gymnastics team is a puzzle, but not in the way you think. This team puzzle has puzzle pieces and naturally those are the gymnasts. However the gymnasts each form their own puzzle piece based on their unique talent to contribute to the whole team. When all the pieces are put together they automatically fit, there is no trying to form the right piece and putting it in the right place, because each person adds what they are good at. Some people may be super powerful and strong while others may be great dancers while others are flexible but all are able to excel in some area. Not only can each athlete use what they are naturally good at but they have the chance to get better because there are many skills to learn and perfect. The athletes can keep pushing themselves to learn something new, for example a new skill or a new skill combination. This allows the athletes to learn dedication and persistence. Gymnasts can also perfect the skills they have, as they learn to straighten their legs or point their toes. In sum, gymnasts are allowed to express what they are good at and always have the chance to