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How to Keep Gymnasts Motivated During Summer Training

Summer is a great time for gymnasts to refine skills, build strength, and prepare for the upcoming competition season. However, with vacations, hot weather, and a change in routine, staying motivated can be challenging. As a coach, keeping gymnasts engaged and excited about training during the summer months is key to long-term success. Here are some effective strategies to maintain motivation and make summer training fun and productive!


1. Set Summer Goals

Without the structure of a school year or competition season, gymnasts may feel like they’re training without direction. Setting clear summer goals helps them stay focused. Goals can be skill-based (learning a new tumbling pass), strength-based (holding a handstand for 30 seconds), or mental (improving confidence on beam). Breaking big goals into smaller, weekly achievements keeps gymnasts motivated and gives them a sense of progress. Check out our downloadable Goal Setting worksheet!


2. Change Up the Routine

Doing the same drills every day can feel monotonous, especially during the slower summer months. Spice up training by introducing new drills, obstacle courses, partner exercises, or outdoor conditioning sessions. Even small variations in practice routines can make training feel fresh and exciting.


3. Incorporate Fun Challenges

Gamifying training is a great way to keep gymnasts engaged. Try adding friendly competitions like:

  • Stick-It Challenges – Who can stick the most landings in a row?

  • Handstand Contests – Longest hold or most creative variation wins!

  • Strength Challenges – How many rope climbs or leg lifts can they do in a minute?

  • Skill Bingo – Create bingo cards filled with advanced gymnastics skills.

    Gymnasts must complete skills in a row, column, or diagonal to win.

    Some boxes can contain challenges like “Stick a back tuck” or “Hit three perfect casts in a row.”

Variation: Make a team version where gymnasts collaborate to fill the card.

Download our Beam Bingo pdf!





These challenges create excitement and encourage gymnasts to push themselves in a fun way.


4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise and rewards go a long way in keeping gymnasts motivated. Recognizing hard work, perseverance, and progress (not just perfect skills) helps athletes stay engaged. Consider small rewards like sticker charts, shout-outs on social media, or a fun “Gymnast of the Week” award.


5. Encourage Cross-Training

Sometimes, stepping away from traditional gymnastics training can reignite motivation. Activities like swimming, yoga, rock climbing, or dance can keep gymnasts active while preventing burnout. Plus, cross-training helps build strength and flexibility in different ways, which can enhance their gymnastics skills.


6. Keep the Social Aspect Strong

One of the best parts of summer training is bonding with teammates. Plan fun team-building activities like themed dress-up days, movie nights, outdoor games, or even a gymnastics scavenger hunt. When gymnasts enjoy spending time together, they’re more likely to look forward to practice.


7. Teach the Value of Rest and Recovery

Summer training doesn’t mean pushing gymnasts to exhaustion. Ensuring they get enough rest, hydration, and proper nutrition will help maintain their energy and enthusiasm. Encourage them to listen to their bodies and take breaks when needed to avoid burnout.


8. Remind Them Why They Started

It’s easy to lose sight of long-term goals during summer, so take time to remind gymnasts why they love the sport. Whether it’s watching inspiring gymnastics videos, reflecting on past achievements, or visualizing future success, reconnecting with their passion can reignite motivation.



Summer training doesn’t have to be a struggle—it can be an exciting opportunity for gymnasts to grow, bond, and prepare for the next season. By setting goals, adding variety, and creating a fun and supportive environment, you can help gymnasts stay motivated all summer long.



 
 
 

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