Gymnastics Queensland records highest membership in 70 years

Participation in gymnastics in Queensland has grown 23% over the past year, with the state’s representative body for the sport, Gymnastics Queensland, recording its highest membership in 70 years.

Gymnastics Queensland Chief Executive, Chris Rushton attributes last year's significant rise to a burgeoning focus on getting active due to the COVID-19 pandemic; recognition of gymnastics as a sport that teaches fundamental movement; and Gymnastics Queensland clubs' COVIDSafe approach to activities through the past year.

The Sunshine Coast posted one of Queensland’s largest increases. Across 20 Sunshine Coast clubs, member numbers have increased by 2782 or 47% from 2020 to 2021. There are now 8641 gymnasts on the Sunshine Coast, with the opening of clubs at Mango Hill and Hervey Bay in 2021 helping fuel that growth.

Rushton advises “we now have 57,000 members across 124 clubs state wide, with more than 60,000 members expected in 2022.

“In Brisbane, we’ve had venues open in high growth areas like Mango Hill, North Lakes and Richlands which has brought with it a large number of sign-ups.

“Coupled with watching our athletes on the global stage at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the announcement of Brisbane as host of the 2032 Games, interest in our sport is growing.”

Rushton said the pandemic had also had an immense impact on physical wellbeing with a flow-on effect to gymnastics noting “over the past year we’ve noticed a real shift in families seeing the benefits of gymnastics.

“Gymnastics is recognised as a sport that teaches fundamental movement – such as how to balance, jump, leap, run, hop and balance – and it increases strength and confidence.”

Rushton also attributed the growth of participation to Gymnastics Queensland clubs’ COVIDSafe approach to activities through the past year adding “with sign-in and hygiene requirements, our well-run clubs have been really focused on safety; I think parents have recognised that and it’s attracted more people to our sport.”

While gymnastics membership has grown, clubs across Queensland need more coaches, with Gymnastics Queensland to launch a marketing campaign in January to attract new blood to the sport.

“Many don’t realise gymnastics coaching is a viable employment option,” Rushton said.

“You don’t have to have experience in gymnastics, you just need to be able to engage with kids; it’s a great job for those looking to make a difference in a child’s life.

“Clubs will provide support and training with casual, part time and full-time roles available. Coaching in gymnastics is paid employment and you learn some great communication and organisational skills.

“With Brisbane to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it’s an exciting time for our sport. We look forward to welcoming more participants to our sport in the years ahead.”

For more information on the seven different gymsports (including KinderGym/Gymnastics for All, Men’s Artistic, Women’s Artistic, Rhythmic, Trampoline, Aerobic and Acrobatic) or to find a club for sign-up in 2022, visit www.gymqld.org.au/

Images: Gymnasts from across Queensland competed at the Junior State Championships in September 2021.