Gymnastics Revolution Hosts National Training Camp

Danbury CT

17 November, 2020

1:35 PM

Description

Press release from Gymnastics Revolution: Nov. 17, 2020 In a time where the news is dominated by epidemics and politics, it's nice to hear of a community event that builds confidence, fitness, and strength in the area's youth. November 14-16, Gymnastics Revolution hosted such a Training Camp for local aspiring gymnasts. The camp was conducted by Olympic Silver Medalist Samantha Peszek and her troop of high level gymnasts, coaches, and choreographers. Using Gymnastics Revolution's facility, the group ran four training sessions designed to instruct, help, and inspire gymnasts of all levels. Peszek designed Beam Queen Boot Camp as a means of bringing her experience and infectious energy to gymnasts at the early levels of the sport. Using talented coaches she has met and resonated with over the years, she designed a training program that lasts for 2 days, touching on mental stability, motivation, proper technique, choreography, and fun to teach the basics (and some high level skills) on the hardest event in gymnastics, the Balance Beam. "I want to provide these young gymnasts with the tools and information I wish I had at their age," said Peszek. "Positive, high-energy coaching, the support of their teammates, and coaches with tons of knowledge give the girls all the tools they need. The rest is up to them!" She travels the country with her Boot Camp, partnering with local, privately owned gymnastics centers. Gymnastics Revolution's 20,000 square foot facility was the perfect location for the event, which was open to gymnasts from Connecticut and New York. The facility had to be rearranged, equipment moved, spread out, and set up to promote distancing. Athletes wore masks throughout the event, and intense cleaning protocols were in place. "We felt that with aggressive COVID protocols in place, we could run this event adhering to or exceeding the mandates and guidelines from Connecticut and the CDC," said Brian Bakalar, who, along with his wife Allyson, own and operate Gymnastics Revolution. "The kids were so appreciative, we realized midway through that they didn't just want this camp – they needed it!" Although state mandates, CDC guidance, and logic required modifications in travel, facility layout, and the overall number of athletes, the event brought smiles to the faces under the masks for both gymnasts and coaches alike. The high energy level, dancing, hard training, and sense of community will keep these athletes engaged and excited in a time where engagement, excitement, and belonging are sometimes hard to come by. This press release was produced by Gymnastics Revolution. The views expressed here are the author's own.