Guide to Gymnastics Programs for Kids in Montreal

Flips, Cartwheels, and Confidence

Gymnastics is one of the most complete physical activities for children. It develops strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, and body awareness — all foundational skills that transfer to every other sport. Montreal has excellent gymnastics facilities for every level, from wobbly first-timers to aspiring Olympians.

The Top Gymnastics Clubs

Gym Richelieu on the South Shore is one of the largest and most established gymnastics clubs in the greater Montreal area. Their recreational program serves ages 18 months to 17 years, starting with parent-and-tot classes and progressing through structured levels. They also have a competitive program that has produced provincial and national-level gymnasts. Monthly fees are $70-100 for recreational, $150-250 for competitive. Their facility is modern with a full set of Olympic apparatus.

Les Réflexes has been a staple of Montreal gymnastics for decades. Their Verdun and Lachine locations serve families across the southwest. The recreational program (ages 2-16) emphasizes fun alongside skill development, which keeps kids coming back. Their coaching staff is known for being particularly patient with beginners and anxious children. Monthly fees run $65-90.

Montreal Gymnastics Centre in Côte-des-Neiges offers programs in both English and French — a rarity in the gymnastics world. Their preschool program (ages 3-5) is one of the best introductions to gymnastics in the city, with age-appropriate equipment and games that teach fundamental movement skills. The centre also offers trampoline classes and tumbling for kids who love flipping but don't want formal gymnastics training. Monthly fees $75-110.

Gymagine in the West Island caters to younger children (18 months to 8 years) with open gym sessions and structured classes. Their play-based approach makes it ideal for toddlers' first exposure to gymnastics-style movement. Open gym sessions are $12/visit, and structured classes run about $75/month.

What to Expect at Each Level

Parent-and-Tot (18 months - 3 years): Parents participate actively, guiding their child through obstacle courses, foam pits, and basic movements. It's more play than gymnastics, and that's the point.

Preschool (3-5 years): Kids begin to follow instructions independently. They learn forward rolls, basic balance beam walking, hanging from bars, and jumping on trampolines. Classes are 45-60 minutes.

Recreational (6-12 years): Structured skill progression through levels. Cartwheels, handstands, back walkovers, and basic bar and beam skills. Classes are 60-90 minutes, typically once or twice weekly.

Competitive (invitation only): Multiple training sessions per week (8-20 hours depending on level). Provincial and national competitions. Serious commitment from both the child and family.

Is Gymnastics Safe?

Parents often worry about injury risk. The reality:

• Recreational gymnastics has a lower injury rate than soccer, basketball, or hockey
• Qualified coaches and proper matting are essential
• Most injuries at the recreational level are minor (sprains, bruises)
• Competitive gymnastics carries more risk, but clubs have strict safety protocols
• Look for clubs certified by Gymnastique Québec

Choosing the Right Club

1. Visit and observe a class before registering
2. Check coach certifications — NCCP certification is the standard in Canada
3. Assess the facility — Proper equipment, clean mats, adequate padding
4. Ask about class size — 8-10 kids per coach for recreational, fewer for competitive
5. Consider your child's goals — Recreational fun or competitive aspirations?

Find sports programs in Montreal on FamiliQC.