Sports Acrobatics

Competitive Gymnastics for men and women of all ages

What is Acro?

Sports acrobatics, also known as Acrobatic Gymnastics or Acro for short, is a structured, competitive programme for gymnasts aged 5 and over.

The programme focusses on balance, agility, flexibility, camaraderie and strength.

Our classes are based on the National Development Programme (Levels 1-3), and the National Levels Programme (Levels 4-10).

What classes are on offer?

We offer three levels of training:

• Development Squad: This is for those working at levels 1-3, and is an ideal place for those new to acro. It is possible to join this group directly, but generally gymnasts will have some MAG, WAG or GymStar experience first. Gymnasts focus on individual skills, but may also work on group routines for competitions.
• Intermediates (Level 4): This group work on competitive routines, usually with the aim of competing at State Championships, and often National Championships as well. Development Squad or MAG/WAG experience is required for those wishing to join the group.
• Seniors: Our higher levels groups train later in the evening, and for longer than the Intermediate group. Skills include complex tumbling sequences, assisted somersaults and feats of flexibility and strength.

How many hours a week are involved?

Many of our acrobats aim to compete at National Championships, so the hours reflect this. Each group works together with the coaches to develop their own training schedule.

• Development Squad 2 hrs/week
• Intermediates 2.5-7.5 hrs/week
• Seniors 3-9 hrs/week

Gymnasts work in groups (usually pairs or trios of same or mixed gender). The groups are allocated by the coaches and reviewed regularly. Groups include a top (smaller gymnast who will have the highest point in each skill, often on the other gymnasts' heads or shoulders, or feet if they are upside down), and a base (larger, stronger gymnast). Trios also include a middle, who is a secondary base. All members of a group must be available to train at the same times, and have similar aims and commitment.

What equipment do the gymnasts use?

Acro routines are all based on a sprung floor. They are performed to music, and there are two types of routine: dynamic (focused on tumbling and agility) and balance (based around balance and strength). Level 8 and above also perform combined routines, which include aspects of both.

Training often includes use of other apparatus, such as bars, beams or trampolines to develop balance, strength and spatial awareness.

Are the coaches qualified?

All our coaches are accredited with Gymnastics Australia. Many of them have been gymnasts themselves, and have years of coaching experience. Most of our lower-level classes also have assistant coaches - senior gymnasts who are developing coaching skills prior to obtaining their own accreditation.

What to wear

All acro gymnasts are expected to wear a leotard to each training session. They may wear a tracksuit to warm up, but it is crucial for the coaches to see their body lines while training. No clothing which can slip and reveal skin on the torso (e.g. crop tops/t-shirts) is permitted.

For competitions, gymnasts wear custom-designed leotards which complement their music and routine. These are made to measure in house. Level 1-3 acrobats do not need a club tracksuit, but this is required for those competing at Level 4 and above.
Hair must always be tied back from the face, and no jewellery is permitted in the gym.

How do competitions work?

When your coach believes your gymnast is ready to compete, they will recommend a suitable competition. You will receive a letter with details. This must be completed and returned to the office by the date stated if your gymnast is to be entered. Closing dates for competitions are fixed and late entries are often not accepted.
After the event closing date, you will receive information about the event: what time to be there, where to go and what to take. It is usually a good idea to make sure your gymnasts has some healthy snacks, a water bottle and warm clothes or a blanket as many gymnasia can be quite cold.

At the competition, there will be a general warm up for all the acrobats in the session, followed by a quick warm-up on the competition floor for each group. Acrobats will be called to perform their routine before a panel of judges according to a pre-determined order of work. For higher levels, the different routines will usually be split over two or more sessions. Competition sessions typically run for 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the event.

How do I join?

Email or phone our office to book a trial class. Availability for some classes is limited, but we do keep waiting lists if necessary.
Acrobats generally need a background in gymnastics, be it WAG, MAG or GymStar. There is also the Development Squad for younger children who want to start.

Can I get involved?

Parent support is very welcome: You can get involved as an assistant coach, as a judge, or as a parent helper at competitions, events or around the club. Speak to the office staff for more details.