World champion and Olympic medalist Beth Tweddle is hoping to inspire the next generation of gymnasts in Manchester through her Gym Stars academy.
The 29-year-old, who announced her retirement in 2013, provides gymnastic classes around the UK in partnership with local schools and leisure centres, which are dedicated to providing children with opportunities to take part in the sport.
The scheme, which launches in Manchester on February 6, aims to teach children from ages 2-9 the basic fundamental gymnastics movements and provides affordable coaching to make gymnastics more accessible for girls and boys in the region.
Tweddle told MM: “There are around one thousand kids in the programme and we’re hoping to keep increasing that. I want every child to have a go at gymnastics.
“I want to make sure they’re enjoying it. If they’re not enjoying it they’re not going to give 100%.
“If they’re interested in teaching gymnastics they can do a two-day course with us.”
The success of the 2012 Olympic Games, and the success of athletes like Tweddle, has seen an increase in the amount of interest and participation in gymnastics throughout the UK.
Clarifying that they are not trying to set up an elite club, the Gym Stars awards hopes to provide ‘fun, productive and structured’ classes for children aged two to seven years old.
Children aged eight and older will work through the British Gymnastics Proficiency and Advanced Proficiency Awards.
The classes aim to focus on the enjoyment factor for children as well as developing and recognising ability at all levels.
There will also be opportunities for those wanting to take the sport further with coaches giving advice on how to pursue gymnastics at other clubs if they spot potential.
John Ahern, Group Business Development Manager at Total Fitness said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Beth Tweddle.
“These classes will sit alongside our existing offering with Becky Adlington Swim Schools, to provide children with a fantastic opportunity to develop their gymnastic skills in a fun, safe environment at our top class facilities.”
Classes will be available at Total Fitness Whitefield, Wilmslow and Altrincham.
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