News
Gymnastics, Classes, Events & More
Enroll in a Class in January, Get a Valentine’s Day Gift Bag in February
Start the new year strong by signing up for gymnastics this January! As a bonus, every new student who enrolls this month will score a special Valentine’s Day Gift Bag in February.
6 Gymnastics Skills to Keep Kids Moving This Winter
It’s cold out, but your gymnast can still stay active, strong, and flexible right from the living room!
When the weather gets chilly and it’s too dark for the park after school, it’s easy for energy to build up and flexibility to slip. Luckily, your gymnast doesn’t need a full gym to stay moving. These quick conditioning and stretching drills are perfect for small spaces and can help your child stay strong, mobile, and ready for the next class, all without leaving the house!
No equipment is required for these exercises, just a clear space, some comfy clothes, and a little music!
1. Straddle Reach Stretch
Sit in a wide straddle on the floor. Reach toward the left leg, trying to use both hands to grasp your toes. Then the right, then stretch forward as far as you can between your legs. Hold each position for 20–30 seconds.
Why it works: Improves hamstring and inner thigh flexibility while encouraging proper posture and core engagement—great for leaps, jumps, and splits.
2. Flutter Kicks
Lie flat on the couch or floor, arms straight above your thighs, and lift your feet about a foot off the ground. Flutter your legs up and down in small motions while keeping your core tight.
Why it works: Builds deep core strength and control, which supports nearly every gymnastics skill—from handstands to hollow holds to beam work.
3. Wall Sits
Have your gymnast sit against the wall like they’re in an invisible chair. Hold for 20–30 seconds, rest, and repeat.
Why it works: Builds leg and core endurance, supports better jumps, landings, and balance.
4. Couch Shoulder Stretch
Kneel facing the back of a couch, place both hands on the top, then slowly dip your head and chest down between your arms. Hold for 20–30 seconds and repeat.
Why it works: Opens the shoulders for bridges, backbends, and walkovers—especially important for gymnasts working on more advanced flexibility skills.
5. One Leg Balance Holds
Stand tall and lift one leg off the ground. Hold your balance as long as you can, then switch sides. To increase difficulty, try closing your eyes or rising onto your toes.
Why it works: Develops ankle strength and body awareness—two essentials for beam work, turns, and strong finishes.
6. Bridge Holds
Lie on your back, place your hands beside your ears, and press into a bridge. Hold for 10–20 seconds while focusing on pushing your shoulders open.
Why it works: Builds flexibility and strength through the spine, shoulders, and wrists—ideal for walkovers, handsprings, and safe backbending.
Even just 10 minutes of movement can help your gymnast maintain strength, flexibility, and focus through the colder months. These drills reinforce the basics they’re learning in class, and help them return to the gym feeling ready. Bonus: most of these can be done while you’re making dinner or hanging out together at home.
Stay warm, and keep moving!
Kids Birthday Parties, Now Booking
Celebrate with action-packed fun! Party activities may include obstacle courses, relay races, trampoline bouncing, tumble-trak hopping, rope swings and age games for all ages. Our staff handles the details so you can enjoy your child’s special day, stress-free!
Learn more and check out our video
Pacific West Gymnastics Promo Products by Your Promo Pros
Pacific West Gymnastics partners with Your Promo Pros for promotional products and campaigns! Connect with your customers and achieve your marketing goals–promote your business with branded products and campaigns. Your Promo Pros will transform your brand and logo into a thoughtful gift for any occasion – company retreats, blood drives, holidays, and more.
Learn more and promote your event or business
Related Links:
About Pacific West Gymnastics
Pacific West Gymnastics, with locations in Union City and Fremont, is a sporting facility that offers Preschool and Toddler Gymnastics, Boys and Girls Recreational Gymnastics, Trampoline & Tumbling, Girls Competitive Team Programs plus Seasonal & Summer Camp Programs. Request a Free Tour online.
We also do Birthday Parties!
Classes | Teams | Summer Camp & Seasonal Camps | Birthday Parties | Free Tour