How to Keep Athletes Engaged in Class

🔁 1. Keep Things Moving (Minimize Downtime)

We all know this one far too well, don’t we coaches!? Boredom. Boredom is the spark that can turn any gymnastics class into a whole dumpster fire. Kids lose focus when they’re waiting too long. (Hey me too though. If I get bored, I start making bad decisions. I’m doom scrolling away on my phone, or eating a whole bag of chips because there’s nothing better to do.)  Use stations, partner work, and circuits to keep everyone active and moving at all times. PRO TIP: Keeping the class moving will not only cut down on boredom and the potential of misbehavior, but you’ll also be utilizing your time more efficiently, therefore leading a more productive class. Kids will be improving, parents will be excited, and your boss will be impressed! PRO TIP #2: If your class is boring, chances are, you’re probably bored too. (& life is too short to be bored, coach.) The more fun they’re having, the more fun you’ll be having! 

🎯 2. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

Don’t be the “just do it” coach. “Winging it” is not “bringing it.” Break bigger skills down into small wins. Create drills for each part of the skill. The beginning, the middle, the end. Take it even further and break down each body movement. Celebrate progress toward those milestones to build motivation and confidence. Drills before skills, amiright? 

🎮 3. Gamify Drills

Turn your drills & skills into mini-games or challenges (Think “stick it” contests, group games, etc.) Kids love competition when it’s fun and low-pressure. 

💬 4. Call Kids by Their Names & Give Personalized Feedback

Calling kids by name and giving specific praise. Skip the, “You guys need to keep your legs straighter” and instead try, “Emma, make sure you keep your legs straight in your dismount. Try squeezing in your handstand before lifting your hand.” Speaking directly to a child, intentionally and mindfully, builds connection and trust. Show each child that you see them. You are paying attention to them. You care for them, and you’re here to give them your best effort as their coach.

🎉 5. Switch It Up Often

Do you find yourself doing the same warm ups, following the same lesson plan on bars, and playing the same game at the end of class? WELL. STOP. IT. Change up the warm-up, equipment setup, or consider adding a theme (superhero jumps, animal walks) to keep novelty high and boredom low. Give your kids something to get excited about! PRO TIP: If you find yourself nearing burnout as a coach, this tip will benefit you too! Trying something new and spicing up your lesson plan, will spark your creativity and remind you why you LOVE coaching gymnastics!

🤹‍♀️ 6. Incorporate Props & Visual Aids

Use cones, hoops, beanbags, stickers, or floor dots to visually structure stations and create variety. You can also use props to create “games” throughout your stations or obstacle courses. 

🗣️ 7. Be Enthusiastic and Positive

Your energy sets the tone. If you’re excited, your athletes will be too. If your face says you don’t want to be here, my guess is that your class is going to be distracted, misbehaving, and bored. The parents watching your class are going to start complaining to the front desk and requesting to try a new coach. Your co-workers are going to start requesting to not be your co-coach on larger classes. Nobody likes a grump-gus. 

🤝 8. Involve Them in Class 

PRO TIP: Keep the conversation flowing! Talk to the kids and don’t stop engaging them. Ask questions, and encourage them to use their brain power to assist the class. Let kids help demonstrate, choose warm-ups, or lead part of the game. Feeling included builds investment for kids and adults alike. 

🧘 9. Balance Structure with Flexibility

Have a plan, but be ready to adapt if attention is slipping — especially with younger kids. When it comes to working with kids, you have to prepare for the unexpected, but you DO have to prepare. Come with a plan and be ready to meet kids where they are. If that means we need to do a high-energy warm-up to burn energy, but that wasn’t on the lesson plan until next week, that’s okay! If you need to allow for 3 minutes of free time or a round of “show and tell” to get your sillies out, do that! 

❤️ 10. Build Relationships

When kids feel seen, safe, and valued, they’re more likely to engage. Ask about their day, celebrate birthdays, or give small shoutouts. Remember to be inclusive and share your attention evenly with the class.