Starting acrobatic gymnastics: age, first class and choosing a group

The ENTER acrobatic gymnastics school welcomes children from the age of 6, with or without previous experience. This is our school's starting age; choosing a group also depends on each gymnast's preparation and needs.

If your child is older and has never tried gymnastics, do not rule it out because you think they have missed their chance. Tell us their age, whether they do another sport and what they would like to learn. Our coaches can explain the available options.

Children do not need to be able to do a handstand, a roll or a partner balance before joining a beginner class. They do not need to be particularly flexible either: physical preparation and technique are part of what they will learn.

Acrobatic gymnastics combines individual skills with work in pairs and groups. The routines you see at a competition take time to develop; they are not expected of a newcomer. Early learning focuses on support positions, balance, coordination and following the coach's instructions.

A trial class is a chance to meet the coaches, experience the atmosphere and see how we train. The exercises depend on the group and the session, but the aim is for your child to take part at an appropriate level and get a first taste of the activity.

There is no need to prove what they can do or compare themselves with children who have been training for longer. They can ask if an instruction is unclear and tell the coach when something feels difficult. If joining a new group worries them, let the team know beforehand so they can help with that first introduction.

Afterwards, talk about how the class felt and ask the coach which group they recommend. Enjoying the experience and finding a suitable pace matter more than completing a particular skill.

Check the venue's instructions when you request a trial. As general preparation, choose comfortable sportswear that allows movement, tie back long hair and leave behind accessories that could get in the way. Bring water and ask whether any specific equipment is needed.

There is no need to buy competition clothing for the first day: check what the group needs first. If there is anything the club should know to adapt your child's participation, tell us before the session. Avoid trying new acrobatic skills at home to prepare for the trial; these should be learnt with coaching guidance.

These groups offer different approaches to training. The right choice gives each gymnast an appropriate level of challenge and a manageable commitment.

School. The starting point for learning the foundations, developing physical fitness and getting used to working together. Previous gymnastics experience is not required.

Development team. Training focuses on refining technique and preparing for the first steps in competition. The coaches assess when this may be a suitable option.

Competition team. Gymnasts need the technical and physical preparation to develop pair or group routines and follow a sports training plan. Age alone, or experience in another sport, does not determine placement.

Before deciding, discuss weekly training commitments, available places and the club's recommendation. Children do not have to start with a competitive goal.

ENTER offers acrobatic gymnastics classes in Moralzarzal and Parla. For a family, being able to arrive on time and attend regularly matters just as much as finding the right group.

Check the groups, timetables and prices at each venue before requesting a trial. This helps you plan travel, schoolwork and other weekly activities using current information.

Visit trial classes, choose Moralzarzal or Parla and follow the venue's instructions. Review the available days and complete the relevant request.

If you are unsure about age, experience or the right group, contact the club before enrolling. Understanding your family's circumstances helps us guide those first steps.