In Manhattan, it’s not news to anyone that space is always at a premium–especially large, open space, that’s full of light, has a great view, and is in a fantastic neighborhood. Well that’s exactly what young gymnasts–and even little ones testing the waters of gymnastics for the very first time–will get at the brand new Studio in the Sky gymnastics space at the 92nd Street Y on the Upper East Side.
The inspiring space features a comprehensive range of top-tier gymnastics equipment–from rows of fresh balance beams and sets of uneven bars to a bouncy spring floor and “tumble track” featuring a cushy pit of foam cubes for kids to bounce into at the end of a tumbling pass or vault.
In the works for about a decade, the new studio–which derives its name not only from the fact that it is on the very top floor of the 92Y, but also because “Studio in the Sky” was a pet-name for project while the studio was still in development stages, and still a “dream,” if you will–officially opened its doors last Sunday. On hand to cut the ribbon with fanfare and aplomb was Olympic gold and bronze medal-winning gymnast Aly Raisman. Plus, Manhattan Borough President-Elect Gale Brewer and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney were also both on hand to congratulate the 92Y staff, and commend Raisman on being a stellar example for female athletes everywhere.
The enthusiasm in air was palpable as Raisman signed autographs before instructing the 92Y Gymstars in a skills workshop and participating in a short Q&A. Both students and staff were clearly thrilled with the results of the Studio’s many years of complex development.
“The process [of getting to this point] was interesting, but also challenging, because its a Manhattan-based facility,” says Katera Noviello, the director of gymnastics and children’s physical education at 92Y. “It was so much fun because I am a gymnast. It was any gymnast’s dream, to be a part of the development of the entire gym design.”
Noviello also noted that aside from now having one of the most desirable spaces for budding gymnasts to train in, 92Y is also special because it’s in their core mission to provide something for all levels and ages. “At 92Y we don’t want to leave any one out. We have programs for all ages and abilities, from toddlers to seniors. We wanted to create a program where any one would feel welcome coming into the gym. That is extremely unique,” she explains.
Of course, the excitement was most visibly apparent in the young tumblers in attendance at the Studio’s opening. “I like the tumble track and the bars the best,” an 8-year-old gymnast gymnast named Olivia says. “My favorite event is bars…and I don’t have a favorite skill, I like them all.” Olivia, who has been doing gymnastics since she was 3 was also thrilled to meet Raisman, whom she’d seen on TV at the Olympics back in 2012.
Finally–to the delight of our Olympics-loving editor–Raisman, who is currently training for the 2016 Olympics, took a few minutes from her busy itinerary to give us some insights into being a young gymnast and to offer up some tips for city kids and parents alike!
New York Family: What would you say to little kids who are starting gymnastics–who are excited but also a bit apprehensive?
Aly Raisman: Just have fun with it. I think gymnastics is the best sport in the world, so just enjoy it. It’s definitely very challenging, but that’s what makes it so special and amazing. If you love it, the most important thing to remember, is that anything is possible and to never give up.
NYF: That’s great advice! Are there any things that your parents did that particularly helped to support you as a young gymnast? What would you like to share with parents of young gymnasts today?
Raisman: My parents were always so supportive. They were great because they never pressured me. It was always me who wanted to go to the gym everyday. Sometimes you see moms or dads pushing their kids and getting mad at them if they have a bad workout or fall on the balance beam during a competition. That’s only going to make kids hate gymnastics and resent the sport. It’s all about having fun and loving it. It’s important for parents to be there for their kids. They get enough [pressure] from their coaches. It’s exhausting and tiring. Gymnasts should be able to come home and hear their parents say: “You did a good job and you should be proud of yourself.”
NYF: We’ve been hearing about the 92Y’s Studio in the sky for quite some time–how does the new facility look to you?
Raisman: It’s awesome! The kids look so excited and full of life. They are so happy to be here–you really see that they love it. They are jumping on the bars, and they can’t contain themselves. It’s really great to see that.
NYF: What’s next for you professionally?
Raisman: I’m back to training right now. I’m really excited. It feels good to be back in the gym again. It’s a lot of hard work but I’ve missed it. I cannot wait to start competing again. I’m working every day to get my skills back because I took this year off.
The 92Y is currently offering mid-semester classes for a variety of ages, including Tumbling for Cheerleaders, Rhythmic Gymnastics, 92Y Wonderfit™Kids’ Fitness Class, Boys’ Recreational Gymnastics, and Boys’ Exhibition Team. Learn more at 92Y.org.
