Is it worthwhile to be in competative gymnastics?

greenbean: Is it worthwhile to be in competative gymnastics?
I know that of course encouraging my child to take part in activities that she likes- and that are healthy- is “good” in of itself. However, does anyone have an opinion on whether it is really a worthwhile investment of time (and money) for my child to spend so much time in her competative gymnastics class? Also, how does that compare to cheering? Someone I know suggested that she could take a cheer class- either along with, or in place of gymnastics.

Answers and Views:

Answer by linlyons
do you know what the most dangerous HS sport is?
cheerleading.
my take is school, and homework, come first.
once those are done well, then she can choose.
SHE can choose.
i think it unlikely that any of them will be a “worthwhile investment” other than for the enjoyment, and physical exercise.
but i think that of the various sports, gymnastics is very good.

Answer by lana_sands
2 thumbs down on both Gymnastics & cheerleading( fake sport). Lot of work, high injury possible events, no money in the long run……..
Tennis & golf would be where I’d steer her.Who knows, you may have future Serena Williams or Michelle Wie? In Gymnastics the best you can hope for is a medal and lot pain down the road.

Answer by Laughing
It is definitely a worth while investment if your daughter enjoys it and is accomplishing something. Not only is gymnastics a great workout, but it really boosts their confidence and self esteem. When they achieve new stunts and skills everyday, that gives them something to look forward to each new class and gives them goals. It keeps them active and involved, and they have fun and a sense of worth in themselves, knowing they can do something.

Gymnastics (and cheerleading) both take a lot of time and effort (and when it gets to the competitive stage, money), but it is well worth it as long as she likes doing it. Both gymnastics and cheerleading ARE sports, both more enduring and more competitive than many of the sports out there today. Gymnasts and cheerleaders train everyday for long hours and devote their lives and everything they do to this sport.

I would start off with just a gymnastics class and see if she would like to to a cheer class later. You might find she does not have time for both. Good luck in deciding what is best for your daughter. I hope you and her choose a life of gymnastics (or cheerleading, or both!) and have fun.

Answer by YOUNGBBALLIN
YEAH THEN EVERYONE WILL NOT LIKE YOU BECAUSE OFF HOW YOU ACT.

Answer by coloradocaitlin
The first person you should ask is her. She knows what is best for her better then anyone online can tell you. If your daughter really wants to do competitive gymnastics i dont think you should hold her back. Gymnastics is GREAT and being on team is so good for a person. Not only is it a self-esteem boost, but on team you can make friends that last for a life time. Once she gets a little older,gymnastics will help her stay organized and usually promotes kids to do well in ll aspects of their lives – most proffesional gymnasts in high school get straight A’s because gymnastics teaches them how to motivate themselves. I have also yet to meet a gymnast who loves the sport and also participtes in drugs… you need to much corrdination to be messing with your brain and body with chemicals. Gymnastics will also provide your daughter with adults that they trust that they can talk to, even if they think of them as friends. Not only that, but gymnastics is an experiences of a life time… i know lots of girls that did gymnastics when they were young and say “I wish my mom would have let me keep going…” I honestly can not think of a valid reason to hold your daughter back from this except that she herself does not want to do it. Talk to her.