How Gymnastics Can Boost Your Mental Health

Gymnastics can help boost the mental health of adults and children alike. While the reasons for this may seem obvious (exercise releases endorphins, we know!), it’s important to understand the unique mental benefits of gymnastics. So, let's delve into some psychology!

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Mental Resilience

Engaging in competitive or recreational gymnastics throughout your life can build amazing mental stamina. You may think the prospect of injury and poor performance can lead to fear or embarrassment, and although that is occasionally true, the benefits hugely outweigh these concerns. A 2016 study found that young gymnasts are able to ‘overcome fear and setbacks’ more so than children who don't engage in the sport. This allows them to develop self-confidence quicker as they’re exposed to unique pressures.

If you’ve just begun your gymnast journey as an adult, the effects are similar. Facing setbacks and working towards goals outside of your day-to-day work life can build confidence and resilience.

Of course, it’s important not to lay on too much pressure – read our guide on healthy competition practice here.

Learning New Skills

Gymnastics is a very unique sport in that there’s always new skills to learn. Unlike other activities (such as football or swimming) where you develop one skill over time, in gymnastics you can practice something new each week. This allows you to set smaller, achievable goals in order to build your confidence over time. This uniquely empowering feeling is why so many people begin gymnastics in adulthood, and leave our gym beaming!

Concentration

There’s another huge benefit to learning these new skills: you have to concentrate pretty damn hard. Many people struggle to concentrate in their day-to-day life – whether that’s you when at work, or your child when completing their homework. Infact, a study from 2022 discovered that 50% of people say they have difficulty focussing and always pick up their mobile phones.

Gymnastics can be highly effective in improving cognition, especially in children. At House of GPA, we encourage everyone to fully immerse themselves in the class, in order to forget about the outside world and focus on getting that perfect tumble! This allows you to clear your head and harness your energy into one skill. Promoting healthy focussing habits will extend to other aspects of your life – the benefits are truly endless!

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So, gymnastics is a truly unique way to clear your head and thicken your skin by learning and perfecting fun skills. If you or your child are interested in joining us, simply click the link below – we have gymnastics classes every day for all abilities!

Register here!