Does your child dream of being the next Simone Biles or Paul Hamm? Are you looking for an affordable gymnastics program? Then check out Parks & Rec’s low-cost, co-ed tumbling and gymnastics classes for kids ages 3-18. Programs take place at 12 locations across the city.
Jamie Miller is recreation leader III at Samuel Recreation Center. She supervises gymnastics and tumbling classes for Parks & Rec. She is also Parks & Rec’s Tumbling Program Chairperson. Jamie said tumbling and gymnastics are a fun way for youth to stay active and make new friends. She also noted that the classes help youth develop important social skills. They learn to:
- Listen and follow directions.
- Work as a team.
- Set goals.
- Manage time.
- Develop self-discipline.
It all starts with tumbling
Jamie explained that the beginner’s program teaches young kids tumbling. Tumbling students learn the basics of gymnastics and compete in meets.
Unlike other gymnastic programs, tumbling does not involve the use of apparatuses. Youth perform their routines on floor mats or on the ground. The acrobatic movements include:
- rolls
- twists
- handsprings
- somersaults.
Making gymnastics affordable
Jamie said gymnastics is a very expensive sport. Parks & Rec’s programs are affordable. They allow children to:
- Take part in gymnastics at a fraction of the cost.
- Receive high-quality coaching.
- Compete in city-wide and state meets.
Currently, Parks & Rec has 13 competitive tumbling and gymnastics programs. Click on the site names below to contact the location.
- Athletic Recreation Center — 1400 N. 26th St., 19121
- Bridesburg Recreation Center — 4625 Richmond St., 19137
- Fox Chase Recreation Center — 7901 Ridgeway St., 19111
- Jardel Recreation Center — 1400 Cottman Ave., 19111
- Junod Recreation Center — 12770 Dunksferry Rd., 19154
- Kendrick Recreation Center — 5822-24 Ridge Ave., 19128
- Lackman Memorial Playground—1101 Bartlett St., 19115
- Lower Mayfair — 3001 Robbins Ave., 19135
- Murphy Recreation Center — 300 Shunk St., 19148
- East Passyunk Community Center — 1025 Mifflin St., 19148
- Pelbano Playground — 8101 Bustleton Ave., 19152
- Picariello Playground — 10801 Calera Rd., 19154
- Water Tower Recreation Center — 209-99 E. Hartwell Ln., 19118
Please note: Vare Recreation Center’s gymnastics program is temporarily operating out of Athletic Recreation Center.