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Don't try this at home! Gymnastics students stut their stuff at open house

SPN Staff
for South Peace News

Jan. 19 was a day set aside for fun as the High Prairie Gymnastics Association held an open house. Parents and/or guardians and friends were invited to see what the students learned so far this year. The younger students took part in Kindergym, a program designed to build each student’s strength, flexibility, body awareness and basic gymnastics skills. As each student completed a station, they had a booklet stamped until they completed the circuit. The older students practiced routines on different equipment after the younger students left. The program continues monthly practices each week.

Nikka Johansson, 13, practices on the balance beam. It takes a great degree of skill and a "no fear" attitude to perform on the narrow piece of equipment.

Learning how to climb is part of gymnastics training. Above, Auslinn Drefs, 3, climbs with some help from coach Sarah Sebo.

Five-year-old Kenzie Herben, left, balances herself on the balance beam with the help of coach Natasha Daley.

The parallel bars is one of the most exciting events in gymnastics but difficult to learn. The first step is proper balance. Above, Kelten Herr prepares for a leap under the watchful eye of coach Vicky Calhoon.

The hard practice during gymnastics is broken by coaches who invent creative and fun ways for students to practice. Above, Samantha Bellerose takes part in the limbo.

Think this is easy; then try it at home! Gymnasts must be flexible in order to perform their routines. Nikka Johansson, left, and Trista Calhoon proved their flexibility on the mat.