Gymnastics is for Everyone: Empowering Diverse Communities

In April and May, Gymnastics South Africa stepped up its efforts to take gymnastics to diverse communities across South Africa. Seeing the importance of inclusivity, Gymnastics SA has hosted workshops aimed at introducing gymnastics to learners with special educational and physical needs.

Reflecting on the federation’s commitment to making gymnastics accessible to everyone, Marti Heri, Development Manager for Gymnastics South Africa explained, “Gymnastics is a sport for everyone, and our efforts to reach learners with special needs are paying off. We believe in the transformative power of gymnastics, and by making it accessible to different communities, we’re not only enriching lives but also promoting inclusivity and empowerment.”

Recently, the Gauteng Gymnastics Association and the KwaZulu Natal Gymnastics Union hosted workshops specifically tailored for teachers from Special Needs Schools on 11-12 April and 3-4 May 2024 respectively, with the two-day initiative aimed to enhance the physical and cognitive development of these learners through the fundamentals of gymnastics.

The Gauteng workshop at Phelang Special School involved the participation of 62 teachers from 16 schools across all districts, while the training in KZN hosted 26 teachers from 18 schools across nine districts, along with two district officials. “These events weren’t just about learning; it was about experiencing the joy and benefits of gymnastics firsthand. Educators experienced the movements and skills of gymnastics and explored the FUNdamentals of gymnastics, which they can now teach to their differently-abled learners, says Caron Henry, Participation Manager for Gymnastics South Africa

“This workshop sets us in motion in our journey towards highlighting the incredible benefits of gymnastics for ALL children. It’s not just about physical activity, it’s about holistic development and inclusivity,” adds Heri. Further workshops are scheduled for other Provinces later this month.

In another effort to promote gymnastics inclusivity, a Choreography of Displays workshop was held in Port Elizabeth from 4^th to 5^th May at the Elite Gymnastics Club. This workshop was led by Marti Heri. The two-day training equipped teachers and coaches from different districts in the Eastern Cape with tools to choreograph team displays, enabling schools and clubs to take part in Gym for All events.

“The success of these workshops demonstrates the power of gymnastics as an inclusive sport for everyone. By empowering teachers and coaches with the necessary skills and resources, we are laying the foundation for a more diverse gymnastics community,” explained Caron Henry.

“Through these initiatives, Gymnastics South Africa is not only breaking down barriers but also unlocking the potential of every child, irrespective of their current abilities. As the sport continues to evolve, it’s important that inclusivity remains at the forefront, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to excel through gymnastics, the mother of all sports” added Heri.

The impact of these workshops was further echoed by David Mahase, one of the Educators from Fulton School for the Deaf in Durban, “Thank you so much for teaching me about gymnastics! This training was very interesting and informative. I hope we can have more of these trainings; two days is not enough for trainings like these. Thank you so much.”