10+ Best Gymnastics Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)
Are you on the hunt for the perfect gymnastics books for 10-year-olds that will keep your young gymnast turning pages as eagerly as they tumble on the mats? Whether they're a budding Olympian or just love the thrill of the sport, finding the right book can be as exciting as nailing a perfect routine. Keep reading as we dive into a variety of must-read gymnastics books for 10-year-olds, each packed with stories of inspiration, determination, and adventure.
Table of Contents
Fun Gymnastics Books for 10-Year-Olds
- The Gymnastics Book: The Young Performer's Guide to Gymnastics by Elfi Schlegel and Claire Ross Dunn
- Genre(s): Non-fiction, Sports, Instructional
- Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers everything about gymnastics, including techniques, history, and tips for young gymnasts.
- Why we recommend this book: It's educational and engaging, providing clear explanations and inspiring stories to keep young readers motivated.
- Perfect for: Young athletes interested in gymnastics or starting their gymnastic training.
- I Will Try by Marilyn Janovitz
- Genre(s): Fiction, Sports, Children's Literature
- Synopsis: The story follows a young girl who learns to overcome her fears and challenges through the sport of gymnastics.
- Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience and perseverance in a fun and relatable way for children.
- Perfect for: Kids who enjoy sports stories and need encouragement to try new things.
- Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy by Daisy Meadows
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Sports, Adventure
- Synopsis: Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy must find her magical ribbon, which keeps gymnastics fun and safe for everyone. The story combines elements of fantasy with the excitement of gymnastics.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a magical adventure that also introduces readers to the discipline and joy of gymnastics.
- Perfect for: Readers who love fairy tales and magical adventures, with an interest in sports.
- Jake at Gymnastics by Rachel Isadora
- Genre(s): Fiction, Picture Book
- Synopsis: Jake and his diverse group of preschool friends go through a day at gymnastics class, showing off their fun activities and exercises.
- Why we recommend this book: It's visually stimulating with vibrant illustrations and encourages physical activity and teamwork among young readers.
- Perfect for: Preschoolers and early readers who enjoy active stories and learning about new activities.
- Balancing Act: The Gymnastics Series #1 by Melisa Torres
- Genre(s): Fiction, Sports, Young Adult
- Synopsis: This series opener follows young gymnast Noelle as she navigates the challenges of competitive gymnastics and the trials of middle school.
- Why we recommend this book: It captures the pressures and triumphs of sports competition, making it a great motivational read.
- Perfect for: Middle schoolers who are interested in stories about sportsmanship, competition, and personal growth.
Educational Gymnastics Books for 10-Year-Olds
- Gymnastics Fun & Games by Joan Jackobson
- Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Sports
- Synopsis: This book offers a variety of games and activities aimed at improving gymnastics skills in a fun and engaging way.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Coordination, physical fitness, understanding of gymnastic techniques
- Why we recommend this book: It makes learning gymnastics enjoyable with creative games and activities that can be done alone or in groups.
- Perfect for: Young gymnasts looking for fun ways to practice their skills and parents or coaches seeking resourceful teaching tools.
- Flying High: The Story of Gymnastics Champion Simone Biles by Michelle Meadows, illustrated by Ebony Glenn
- Genre(s): Biography, Sports
- Synopsis: This inspiring biography details the life and career of Simone Biles, one of the world's most famous gymnasts, highlighting her journey from early childhood through her Olympic triumphs.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, inspiration from real-life achievements, understanding of dedication and discipline
- Why we recommend this book: It provides a motivational story that showcases the hard work and dedication required to succeed in gymnastics at the highest level.
- Perfect for: Aspiring young gymnasts and any child interested in stories of perseverance and achievement in sports.
- Let's Try Gymnastics by Jessica Gunderson
- Genre(s): Non-fiction, Instructional, Sports
- Synopsis: This introductory book teaches the basics of gymnastics, including simple moves, safety tips, and the benefits of the sport.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic gymnastics skills, safety awareness, physical health
- Why we recommend this book: It's an excellent primer for children new to gymnastics, providing clear, easy-to-follow instructions and important safety information.
- Perfect for: Beginners in gymnastics and young readers interested in starting a new sport.
- Stretch It Out! A Kid's Guide to Yoga and Flexibility by Tessa Sillars-Powell
- Genre(s): Non-fiction, Health & Fitness
- Synopsis: Although primarily focused on yoga, this book offers valuable lessons on flexibility that are applicable to gymnastics, teaching various stretches and poses to improve body control and flexibility.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Flexibility, muscle control, relaxation techniques
- Why we recommend this book: It encourages a holistic approach to physical fitness, which is beneficial for young gymnasts looking to enhance their flexibility and overall performance.
- Perfect for: Young athletes and gymnasts who want to improve their flexibility and learn about the benefits of yoga as a complementary practice to gymnastics.
Challenging Gymnastics Books for 10-Year-Olds
- The Science of Gymnastics by Jane M. Bingham
- Genre(s): Non-fiction, Sports, Science
- Synopsis: This book delves into the physics and mechanics behind gymnastics movements, explaining how gymnasts use science to improve their performances.
- Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts and applies them to the sport, making it a challenging yet fascinating read for young minds.
- Why we recommend this book: It enhances understanding of gymnastics through a scientific lens, promoting both sports appreciation and scientific curiosity.
- Perfect for: Young gymnasts who have a keen interest in science and how it applies to sports.
- Grace, Gold, and Glory: My Leap of Faith by Gabrielle Douglas and Michelle Burford
- Genre(s): Biography, Sports, Inspirational
- Synopsis: This autobiography of Olympic gold medalist Gabrielle Douglas offers an inspiring story of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.
- Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores themes of sacrifice, resilience, and personal growth, which are profound and thought-provoking for young readers.
- Why we recommend this book: It provides a real-life example of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness, encouraging readers to pursue their own dreams with determination.
- Perfect for: Aspiring gymnasts and any young readers looking for a story of inspiration and triumph.
- Winning Balance: What I've Learned So Far about Love, Faith, and Living Your Dreams by Shawn Johnson, with Nancy French
- Genre(s): Biography, Sports, Personal Development
- Synopsis: Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson shares her journey from a young gymnast to an Olympic medalist, focusing on how she maintained balance in her life through various challenges.
- Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex issues of identity, pressure, and personal values, which are advanced topics for younger readers.
- Why we recommend this book: This book offers insights into managing success and setbacks, providing valuable life lessons alongside an engaging gymnastics story.
- Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy sports biographies and are interested in learning about life skills through the experiences of successful athletes.
- The Flip Side by Shawn Johnson and A.L. Sonnichsen
- Genre(s): Fiction, Sports, Young Adult
- Synopsis: Follows the story of high school gymnast Charlie Ryland as she navigates the challenges of secrecy, friendship, and competition in the world of elite gymnastics.
- Why this book is challenging: The book addresses the psychological pressures of competing at a high level, which adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
- Why we recommend this book: It provides a fictional yet realistic look at the world of competitive gymnastics, filled with drama and personal growth.
- Perfect for: Young gymnasts and readers who enjoy stories about sports and overcoming personal challenges.
- Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance by Simone Biles with Michelle Burford
- Genre(s): Autobiography, Sports, Inspirational
- Synopsis: Simone Biles' autobiography provides an in-depth look at her journey from her early days in foster care to becoming a world-renowned gymnastic champion.
- Why this book is challenging: It discusses complex themes such as identity, belonging, and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring read that showcases the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the support of loved ones in achieving incredible success.
- Perfect for: Readers looking for a motivational story and fans of Simone Biles interested in learning more about her life and career.
Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit
If you're diving into the world of gymnastics through books, developing solid reading habits is just as important as mastering a cartwheel! Here are some great exercises designed for 10-year-olds to enhance their reading experience, especially when exploring gymnastics books.
- Set Reading Goals
- What it is: Decide on how many pages or chapters to read each day.
- How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps complete books in a timely manner.
- Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.
- Create a Reading Nook
- What it is: Designate a special corner in your home as a reading area.
- How it helps: Provides a comfortable and distraction-free environment that enhances focus.
- Tips: Make it cozy with pillows, good lighting, and maybe even some gymnastics-themed decorations!
- Discuss What You Read
- What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in gymnastics.
- How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
- Tips: Try to discuss the book right after your reading session to keep details fresh.
- Use a Dictionary
- What it is: Look up any unfamiliar words you encounter while reading.
- How it helps: Expands vocabulary and understanding of the text.
- Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use a dictionary app while reading.
- Illustrate the Story
- What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
- How it helps: Enhances creativity and helps visualize the text.
- Tips: Share your drawings with others to make the activity more fun and interactive.
- Summarize Each Chapter
- What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading it.
- How it helps: Aids in better understanding and remembering the plot and key details.
- Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before starting the next reading session.
These exercises aren't just fun; they're stepping stones to becoming a better reader and maybe even a gymnastics expert! So, grab your gymnastics books, pick a couple of these exercises, and start flipping the pages as you flip through your gymnastics moves. Happy reading!