What should athletes wear?

• Any athletic attire (a gym suit, tank top, t-shirt, shorts, or leggings)
• Please no buckles or zippers
• Avoid denim
• Long hair must be tied back
• No jewelry (stud earrings okay)
• No shoes or socks (bare feet in the gym)

What should I bring to class?

• Proper attire
• A spill-proof, shatter-proof water bottle (filled only with water...please no juice, pop, energy drinks, or flavoured or coloured water)
• Most importantly...a positive attitude, willingness to try, and a smile!

Please do not send your child with toys, as these are a distraction to them and the other participants in the class, the toys can get destroyed, or even pose a safety risk.

How many kids are in each class?

This is dependent on the age group and skill level. Our recreational gymnastics classes will not exceed an 8:1 athlete to coach ratio, as per Gymnastics Ontario regulations. Our Kinder classes (Parent & Tot, Jr. Kindergym, and Kindergym) will not exceed a 6:1 ratio, with Jr. Kindergym typically being capped at 4:1. We try to ensure our athletes receive the best instruction possible, by keeping class sizes manageable. If we are noticing a class needs a little more help, we frequently will employ a class assistant.

My child passed a level. What class should they be in next?

Generally, our classes are split into age groups, and their level does not determine their class placement. Each child in a class is working on their own individual level, progressing at their own pace. The coach of the class will tailor the content of the class to challenge each athlete at their level, and to ensure they are learning the skills they need to progress in their current level.

In cases where it is possible, classes may be divided by age AND level. Additionally, for those children who have achieved a very high level for their age (Level 5 or higher, typically) they may be eligible for one of our Advanced programs, at EPIC's discretion. If you believe your child would be suitable for our Advanced stream, please speak to someone in the office regarding scheduling a tryout.

Should I choose Parent & Tot (18m-3) or Jr. Kindergym (3-5)?

If your child is 3 years old, you have the choice of either class. Both classes are the same length, and learn the same skills in the same circuits. The major differences are the expectations regarding listening skills and independence.

Parent & Tot is best for children who would benefit from a little extra assistance, or children who are still learning to stay with their group. It's also the best choice if you want an opportunity for a bonding activity with your child! If this is your child's first experience with gymnastics, we recommend Parent & Tot!

Jr. Kindergym is a transitional class, that encourages parent involvement as needed, with the goal of reaching full independence. This is best for 3-year-olds who are more independent and require less assistance; kids who are very active and advanced for their age. Please note: our young athletes in Jr. Kindergym may still require parental assistance, and if you notice your child needing some extra help, please don't hesitate to jump in.

Should I choose Jr. Kindergym (3-5) or Kindergym (4-6)?

If your child is 4 or 5 years old, you have the choice of either class. 

Jr. Kindergym has a shorter class length and a smaller class size. It is best for younger children, children with shorter attention spans, children who are brand-new to gymnastics, or children who may benefit from a little additional assistance. It teaches the same skills on the same equipment as Kindergym. Jr. Kindergym allows parental involvement as needed, in order to help the athletes thrive. This class is appropriate for children who have no class experience.

Kindergym is a longer and larger class, where expectations are a little higher. A child in Kindergym is expected to be able to fully participate in the class without parental involvement. In Kindergym, children are expected to stay with their group and listen to their coach's instructions. The longer class length allows coaches to explore skills in more depth and progress is often a little faster in this class. Kindergym is most appropriate for children who are already in Kindergarten at school.

Should I choose Kindergym (4-6) or Jr. Recreational (6-8)? 

If your child is 6 years old, you have the choice of either class. In general, choose Kindergym if your child is still in Kindergarten. Choose Jr. Recreational if your child is in grade 1.

Kindergym is a shorter and smaller class, enabling children to benefit from a little more one-on-one coach attention. Kindergym athletes participate in themed circuits each week on vault, floor, bars, beam, and tumble track. This class is designed to teach gymnastics fundamentals in fun and novel ways. Kindergym athletes progress through our Kindergym Momentum level system, earning pins as they progress. Kindergym is most appropriate for children who are in Kindergarten at school.

Jr. Recreational is a longer and larger class, with higher expectations regarding participation. Jr. Recreational athletes learn gymnastics skills on all four events (vault, floor, beam, and bars). The longer class length allows coaches to explore skills in more depth and really hone in on proper technique. Jr. Recreational athletes progress through our EPIC level system, earning pins as they progress.

My child has no gymnastics experience. What class should I choose?

All of our classes (with the exception of the Advanced stream) are designed to be accessible to athletes of all skill and experience levels, including complete beginners! Your child's coach will ensure that your child is challenged at an appropriate level. 

My child has prior experience. What class should I choose?

Our classes are tailored to each individual athlete, so any of our classes for their age group should be appropriate. However, if your child is very advanced, and you would like them to be considered for our invitation-only Advanced stream, please arrange a tryout/assessment with someone in our office.

What is the Intermediate (9-11) category?

This category often leads to confusion; it is an age category, not a skill category! Intermediate is appropriate for beginner to experienced recreational athletes, from ages 9 to 11.

Do you offer Boy's Gymnastics?

We do! Right now, we offer Boy's Gymnastics at the Recreational level. We hope to add competitive options in future!

What should I expect in a Parent & Tot class?

Parent & Tot classes are a fantastic opportunity for you and your child to bond in a fun environment, while getting some exercise and gaining skills too. For many children, this is their first exposure to a "class" setting, and as such, it is completely normal for there to be some hiccups along the way! It is expected that our youngest participants will be distracted, run around, and sometimes even cry. If that is your child, don't be discouraged! Usually they get the hang of things after a few weeks (sometimes a little longer--and that's okay too!). The best thing to do is try your best to keep your child with their group, try to encourage their participation, and don't give up!