Gym club offers new classes

Mahurangi Gym Sports will introduce two new classes this year, starting on Wednesday, February 13.

There will be a tumbling class involving round-offs and somersaults to improve strength and flexibility, and a Free G class, a form a parkour (or street running). This involves travelling through the community using the fastest and most direct route possible, practising gym skills and using everyday objects such as walls and poles.

Gym Sports meets at Mahurangi College and both the new classes are open to children aged nine years and older.

The club’s full programme catered for around 100 to 120 children last year.

Manager Liz Davie Martin says a shortage of coaches is a limiting factor.

“We have a buddy system, which allows students to learn under the guidance of a qualified coach,” Liz says. “At the moment we have four in training with possibly another two coming on board this year, but we would like more.

“The students volunteer for the first six months and learn what’s involved in being responsible for a group of young gymnasts. The programme teaches them good life skills.”

Classes on Monday nights cover badge work and basic skills, and are designed to be fun. The club also has a more competitive group of six to 10-year-olds that practice twice a week.

“Gym skills – from rotation, landings, height and flight to statics (balance and poise) – form the basis of every sport,” Liz says. “It’s a great way to give children the skills they need, regardless of what sport they go on to play.”

Liz says the club is looking forward to being part of the proposed multisport facility at the showgrounds.

For club information, phone 425 5705 or 027 331 6355.