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We know parents have a hard time deciding whether their child should enroll in gymnastics or ninja classes. While there is no wrong answer, various personalities often choose a specific class.
Gymnastics: For kids who are trying gymnastics for the first time, we offer a recreational class allowing them to learn the basics of the sport. After our beginner friendly class, we have options ranging from tumbling classes to competitive gymnastics. Our variety of classes accommodate the kids who want to do gymnastics while playing other sports or the kids who want to be in a competitive atmosphere.
Ninja: We see many adventurous kids enroll in our ninja classes. If your child loves to climb and jump, this is a great option for them. Kids are able to exert their energy through a variety of age-appropriate obstacles and courses. While we often see extroverted kids in these classes, there are also reserved kids who want to get out of their comfort zone. Regardless of which category your child falls in, they will still learn body control, agility and other important skills.
We love seeing new faces in the gym. Give both classes a try and see which one your child falls in love with. To learn more, click here.
What a Gymnastics Class Actually Looks Like
Our kids’ gymnastics classes are thoughtfully designed to keep your child active. We focus on discipline while also incorporating athletic and artistic movements.
In our junior classes, students will warm up and then participate in age-appropriate activities such as rolls, jumps and handstands. Each activity is practiced on appropriate equipment, keeping safety in mind.
In our tumbling classes, students focus on proper technique. Once they master the basics, they’ll learn more advanced techniques such as handsprings, walkovers and more.
To learn more about the full offerings of our gymnastics classes at Mount Laurel, click here.
What a Ninja Class Actually Looks Like
Your child will progress through various levels when they enroll in our ninja classes.
Ninja I: Learn the foundation of ninja training, with a focus on moving safely and confidently.
Ninja II: Focus on upper body strength and grip control.
Ninja III: Learn advanced techniques such as rope climb and swinging from bars.
Ninja IV: Practice plyometrics through a series of drills and obstacles.
Ninja V: Push yourself through high-intensity obstacles to build endurance.
Ninja VI: Enjoy competition-style ninja courses that simulate real ninja events.
Click here to learn more and to enroll in one of our ninja classes.
Side-by-Side: Skills, Structure, and Style
Gymnastics and Ninja classes both offer a variety of benefits, while also differing in structure and approach. Depending on your child’s goals, one class or both can be a great fit. Below is additional information on how our core offerings support your child’s development.
| Gymnastics | Ninja |
|---|---|
| Benefits: Improved coordination and balance, enhanced strength and flexibility, boosted confidence. | Benefits: Increased endurance, enhanced flexibility, improved resilience and discipline. |
| Class Focus: Strength, coordination and body awareness. | Class Focus: Parkour, ninja obstacles and calisthenics. |
| Inclusive Approach: All skill levels welcomed and classes are tailored to each child’s level. | 5 Training Pillars: Speed, power, endurance, control and mental toughness. |
Which One Fits Your Child’s Personality?
We invite all children to try both classes to see how they enjoy the various coaching methods. We typically see high-energy, obstacle-loving kids in our ninja classes and kids who enjoy structure in our gymnastics classes. However, many kids fall into both categories and love seeing the differences in each session.
While we usually notice these characteristics in our classes, it’s not an exception. Many reserved kids enroll in our ninja classes because it gives them an opportunity to challenge themselves. Additionally, extroverted kids will enroll in our gymnastics classes to stay active and learn new skills.
Our Gymnastics and Ninja Combo Classes are a great way to test out both classes. Click here to learn more.
Age and Readiness: When Kids Can Start Each
We offer a variety of gymnastics and ninja classes for all ages. Our classes adapt to each age level, allowing your child to progress as they get older.
• Seeds: 18 months – 3 year olds will learn basic motor skills and parent/child bonding through an engaging format.
• Seedlings: Perfect for 3 year olds who can participate without parental supervision.
• Sprouts: 4 year olds rotate through bar, beam and vault in an age-appropriate environment.
• Buds: A 60 minute class for 5-6 years old focused on transitioning them into our Recreational Gymnastics program.
• Beginner Gymnastics: Learn basic skills on the beam, vault and floor.
• Intermediate Gymnastics: If you’ve mastered our beginner class, try more challenging skills. Best suited for ages 6-13+ years old.
• Advanced Gymnastics: Mastered beginner and intermediate? Try our advanced classes, where you’ll learn skills such as walkovers, back handsprings and more. Best suited for ages 6-13+ years old.
• Little Ninjas: Focus on coordination, balance and fun. Perfect for preschoolers and early-aged elementary children. Best suited for ages 6-13+ years old.
• Ninjas: Older students focus on advanced techniques and strength exercises. Best suited for ages 6-13+ years old.
Explore our programs at Mount Laurel today!
Why “Both” Is Often the Smartest Answer
Rather than choosing between our gymnastics and ninja classes, many families realize that both classes complement each other.
In gymnastics, you enhance strength and coordination, which builds the foundation for a strong ninja. In our ninja classes, you build the grip and strength that helps you in gymnastics. At Dominique Dawes Academy Mount Laurel, we are one of the few places that offer both classes under one roof.
The best way to explore our classes is in person. Learn more about our location here.
Try Both at Dominique Dawes Academy Mount Laurel
We’re looking forward to opening our doors in Mount Laurel this summer! Be among the first to experience our new facility, meet our instructors and join a positive community.
Attend our Grand Opening to get a first look at our gymnastics and ninja classes. Many kids are excited to try both and we encourage each child to try each to find the right fit. Enroll today and join our community of families excited to call our academy home!
