A Guide to Top Gymnastics in NYC
Families looking for best gymnastics programs in NYC can start with 92Y, Chelsea Piers, NYC Elite, Discovery Programs, Jodi’s Gym, Sokol, and Gymtime Rhythm & Glues. From hardcore parkour to space expansions and hybrid classes, we caught up with some of our favorite local gymnastics programs to see what has them excited about the year ahead.
Too Long, Didn’t Read
- Most Preferred gymnastics programs: 92Y, Chelsea Piers, Discovery Programs, and Gymtime Rhythm & Glues.
- Best for fun skills: Parkour, ninja courses, dance-gymnastics, USAIGC classes, team training.
- Best extra activities: Birthday parties, special events, open playrooms.
- Best things to check: Coaches, class style, safety, friendly spaces, comfort level.
- Best for little kids: Programs starting at age 3 that build balance, strength, and early skills.
Once you know what each gym in NYC offers and what’s best for your child, it’s easier to see which classes and programs will fit perfectly. Below is a list of the top gymnastics programs in NYC.
92Y
What’s New: Kids’ Night Out
“Kids’ Night Out is a terrific new program that does two things at once—it gives kids a taste of parkour & ninja obstacles, gymnastics, sports, arts and crafts, and more in a social environment, and it frees parents up, too, so that they can enjoy a night out or quality time together.” -Katera Noviello, director of athletics
Chelsea Piers
What’s New: Parkour
“Chelsea Piers is adding on to our already outstanding gymnastics program with new equipment for our ninja and parkour-themed classes! Students in our ‘Fitness, Stunts and Skills’ program now have even more obstacles to enjoy in our facility! Ninja and parkour training is becoming more mainstream and popular in the gymnastics world because it provides a total body workout and appeals to boys in particular who are interested in tumbling apparatus. The classes start off with the basics and progress based on each student’s skill, while still providing exciting, yet safe, obstacles to overcome.” -Josh Diorio, assistant director of gymnastics
Discovery Programs
What’s New: USAIGC Classes
“This year our gymnastics program is booming with both United States Association of Independent Gymnastics Clubs (USAIGC) team and recreational classes. We have beginner through advanced recreational levels and many are selling out. Our USAIGC team is growing and we sent five students to Worlds over the summer. We still offer toddler gym, soccer, and sports, and have parkour for ages 3 through adult! It’s going to be an exciting year.” -Katie Kheel, director
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues
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What’s New: Top Level Gymnastics
“At Gymtime, we pride ourselves on our program’s ability to cater to children of all ages and developmental skill levels beginning at age 3. One new program we’re especially excited for is Top Level Gymnastics, created for experienced gymnasts who have previously trained at a competitive level but are no longer able to maintain the hourly commitment. It is a 90-minute lesson for girls who are accustomed to training at the highest possible level.” -Samantha Katorkas, director of the Gymtime gymnastics team and Chris Vollaro, director of sports and gymnastics programs
Jodi’s Gym
What’s New: A Big Birthday Celebration
“Jodi’s Gym is celebrating its 35th birthday…but you get all the presents! With 35 days of ongoing events, we have something for everyone, including promotions, events, contests, discounts for legacy babies (former Jodi’s Gym students who are now bringing their own kids to Jodi’s Gym!).” -Keri Patterson, general manager
NYC Elite
What’s New: Expanded Play Spaces
“NYC Elite Gymnastics on the Upper East Side has a newly completed 6,000-square-ft expansion. This new gym area and lobby will be used for birthday parties, recreational classes, and competitive team workouts. We are very excited and proud of this addition to our 91st Street location.” -Drew Moore, director of operations
Sokol
What’s New: Dance/Gymnastics Hybrid Classes
“We realized that while the children love to tumble, the focus of dance and correct form was getting lost. Kids are trying to do all the difficult skills without any form or posture. Therefore, we have a dance for gymnastics class which focuses on turns, leaps, jumps, and flexibility. All crucial skills which make the routines on the floor and beam become more graceful and harder than just tumbling skills. We also have included two children’s classes called Circus Arts which incorporates aerial silks, trapeze, balance, and juggling.” -Nikki Loayza, physical director of Sokol New York
Gymnastics Programs We Love
92Y, 92y.org
Chelsea Piers, chelseapiers.com
Columbus Gym, columbusgymnyc.com
Discovery Programs, discoveryprograms.com
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues, gymtime.net
Jodi’s Gym, jodisgym.com
MAGIC Activity Center, magicactivitycenter.com
NYC Elite Gymnastics, nycelite.com
The Little Gym, thelittlegym.com
NY Kids Club, nykidsclub.com
My Gym, mygym.com
Sokol, sokolnewyork.org
Top Gymnastics Programs in NYC: Comparison of Classes, Cost, Amenities, and more
| Gym Name | What’s New | Cost | Amenities | Rental Details | Extra Notes |
| 92Y | Kids’ Night Out with parkour, ninja fun, gymnastics, sports, art, and more | Call for cost details | Big gym space, safe equipment, art rooms | Call for rental details | Great mix of activities and social time for kids |
| Chelsea Piers | New ninja and parkour equipment added to the gymnastics program | Call for cost details | Huge gym, trampolines, bars, beams, obstacle courses | Call for rental details | Very active classes great for kids who like stunts and action |
| Discovery Programs | New USAIGC team and recreational levels, plus parkour for ages 3 to adult | Call for cost details | Foam pit, bars, beams, toddler gym, sports area | Call for rental details | Strong team program and great beginner options |
| Gymtime Rhythm & Glues | Top Level Gymnastics for experienced gymnasts who want strong training with fewer hours | Call for cost details | Full gym, toddler playrooms, safe mats, beams, bars | Call for rental details | Supports all ages and skill levels, from tiny beginners to advanced |
| Jodi’s Gym | Celebrating 35 years with events, contests, and special discounts | Call for cost details | Bright gym, beams, bars, obstacle setups, safe mats | Call for rental details | Very family-friendly with long history and fun events |
| NYC Elite | New 6,000 sq ft expansion with extra play space and party rooms | Call for cost details | Large gym, new lobby, birthday rooms, top equipment | Call for rental details | Great for both classes and celebrations |
| Sokol | New dance + gymnastics hybrid and Circus Arts with silks, trapeze, and juggling | Call for cost details | Dance studio, tumbling area, circus equipment | Call for rental details | Lovely mix of dance, gymnastics, and circus fun |
How to Choose a Competitive Gymnastics Program?
Reference URL: https://gmgc.com/how-to-choose-a-competitive-gymnastics-program/
Finding the right competitive gymnastics program can feel tricky at first, but it is easier when you know what to look for. Every gym has its own style, class setup, and way of coaching, so visiting a few places and watching classes can really help you see which environment will work best for your child.
Below are some key things to keep in mind when choosing a program. These tips focus on safety, fun, and skill-building to make sure your child gets the most out of their gymnastics experience.
- Coach Interaction: Watch how the coaches work with the kids. Are they encouraging and patient? A good coach challenges students while keeping them motivated and confident.
- Program Structure: Check the types of classes offered. Some gyms focus on competitions, while others mix recreational and team options. Make sure the schedule and commitment level match your family’s routine.
- Social Opportunities: Think about your child’s personality. If they enjoy making friends, see if the gym offers group activities, fun challenges, or special events to keep things engaging.
- Equipment and Safety: Look at the equipment and gym setup. Proper mats, bars, beams, and spotting systems are essential. Clean and well-maintained facilities show the gym values safety.
- Child Comfort: Notice how your child feels in the gym. They should feel safe, supported, and excited to come back each week. Comfort and confidence are just as important as learning new skills.
FAQs
What is the most popular gym in NYC?
Several gyms in NYC are very popular, but Chelsea Piers, 92Y, and NYC Elite Gymnastics are some of the top choices. They are known for excellent coaching, fun programs, and facilities that keep kids motivated and engaged.
What is the best gymnastics gym in the US?
While many gyms across the country are highly respected, 92Y and Gymtime Rhythm & Glues in NYC are often praised for their combination of competitive and recreational programs, making them stand out nationally.
Is a trial class available at NYC gymnastics gyms?
Trial classes are offered by many NYC gyms, such as 92Y, Gymtime Rhythm & Glues, and Chelsea Piers, giving children a chance to explore the facility and understand the activities before joining a full program.
What’s the best age to start gymnastics?
Most gyms, including Gymtime, Jodi’s Gym, and Sokol, start programs for children as young as age 3. Starting early helps kids build coordination, strength, and confidence, and it also gives them plenty of time to explore whether competitive gymnastics is the right fit.
