The Science Behind Why Kids Love Gymnastics (When It's Taught the Right Way)
- wickersgymnasticsc
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Ever wondered why some kids sprint into their gymnastics class with the energy of a caffeinated squirrel, while others seem to drag their feet? (And why your own child might switch from "I love it!" to "Do I have to?" faster than they can do a forward roll?) Well, it turns out there’s actual science behind how children engage with activities like gymnastics — and it’s got a lot to do with how they're taught, not just what they're taught.
A fascinating study by Wahyuniati et al. (2025) explored the impact of adding games into rhythmic gymnastics training. Instead of endless drills and repetitions, they introduced things like obstacle courses, hopscotch challenges, and agility ladders.
The result? Kids' engagement shot up, their skills still improved, and they actually wanted to keep coming back.
The Magic Ingredients: Autonomy, Competence, and Connection
According to Self-Determination Theory (the sciencey bit), kids stick with activities they feel three things from:
Autonomy — "I'm in control of what I'm doing."
Competence — "I'm getting better at this!"
Relatedness — "I feel connected to the people around me."
Game-based learning naturally ticks all these boxes. When kids get to explore, race, and challenge themselves through fun activities, they feel more in charge, more successful, and more socially connected.
In other words: when we sneak learning into play, they don’t even realise how much they're mastering!
Traditional Drills vs. Game-Based Fun
Wahyuniati’s research showed that while both traditional and game-based methods improved skills like jumping, only the game-based groups showed a big leap in motivation and enthusiasm.
And honestly, for young gymnasts, motivation is the secret weapon. Happy gymnasts = focused gymnasts = kids who stick with it long enough to actually master the tougher stuff (like somersaults, handsprings, or even competitive routines).
How Wickers Brings the Science to Life
Here at Wickers Gymnastics Club, we’ve long believed that learning should be joyful as well as structured. Especially in our preschool, primary, and junior classes, you’ll find us blending solid coaching foundations with creative activities that keep things exciting and age-appropriate.
Yes, they'll learn proper technique. Yes, they'll build strength and flexibility. But they'll also laugh, problem-solve, play, and discover a genuine love for movement — not just memorise routines.
Because the goal isn’t just creating good gymnasts. It’s creating lifelong movers, brimming with confidence.
Want to See the Science in Action?
If you're curious about how fun and skill-building go hand-in-hand at Wickers, why not come and see for yourself?
Research source:
Wahyuniati C.F.S., Marsudi I., Rusdiawan A., Dafun J.R.P.B., Kumaat N.A., Yudhistira D., Fathir L.W. (2025). Gamification in physical education: improving rhythmic gymnastics skills and student engagement through coaching games. Pedagogy of Physical Culture and Sports, 29(2), 131–141. https://sportpedagogy.org.ua/index.php/ppcs/article/view/3044/1172
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