You’ve maybe heard a lot about rhythmic gymnastics recently. This beautiful sport integrates dance movements with elements of acrobatics, including the use of ribbons and hoops.
But what is it, and how is it good for your child?
It’s also an incredible sport for your child to learn from a young age. The passion for rhythmic gymnastics is growing and is gaining traction as a unique way to help your child develop their fine motor skills, sense of team morale, and learning to enjoy physical activity.
From age 3, children can start to practice the skills needed – although a routine for a younger child will be carefully developed to allow for their physical growth and development of spatial awareness.
THE BENEFITS OF RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS FOR YOUR CHILD
1. It helps them to develop flexibility and improve their physical health
Rhythmic gymnastic routines are designed to challenge the flexibility and elasticity of the athletes’ muscles. This has widely been acknowledged as a great way for children to develop, ensuring that they can be lithe and flexible as they get older.
2. It helps them connect to the world around them and know their place in it
Alongside the physical health that rhythmic gymnasts enjoy, training also allows them to develop their sense of coordination and movement. When a child is learning rhythmic gymnastics, they’re learning how to control their movements and to be aware of their place in relation to everything else around them. This kind of connectivity allows children to develop the confidence to understand the space their body takes in the world, as well as working to correct early issues such as bad posture.
3. It helps to develop their cognitive and psychological responses
From learning how to perform specific moves, to remembering full routines, rhythmic gymnastics is a great way to cultivate concentration and memory in children. As everything is planned and performed, your child’s cognitive skills will be sharpened, and it can benefit their academic and mental development, as well as physical.
4. Allows an increased appreciation for music and rhythm
Music is a vital component in rhythmic gymnastics. As a result, children will understand more fully the relationship between melody and rhythm, as well as learning how to coordinate their movements in time with the music. This can also help develop their interest in different styles and types of music, widening the kind of sounds they are exposed to.
5. It can positively impact their lives outside of dance
The discipline, attention, and dedication that rhythmic gymnastics requires can radiate benefits throughout their whole lives. From developing the kind of coordination and physical health which will set them on a great path through life, it will also allow them to be more confident and have a sense of self-esteem.
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