Rochester, Minn. – In an effort to promote physical activity and foster a sense of community, a local gymnastics academy, ROGA, organized a youth open gym event this past Sunday. The initiative aimed to provide youngsters with an opportunity to explore the academy’s ninja obstacle course and preschool gym, irrespective of their membership status.
Emphasizing the significance of active participation and a willingness to explore new activities, the academy’s owners underscored the broader benefits for children. They believe that engaging in open gym sessions not only contributes to physical well-being but also nurtures social skills. Establishing these habits early, the owners argue, can positively influence the children as they transition into adulthood.
Tamara Buechler, one of ROGA’s owners, highlighted the numerous advantages of free play for kids, citing benefits such as enhanced imagination, increased self-confidence, and observable camaraderie during open gym sessions. Buechler remarked, “Oftentimes, a child may come by themselves, not necessarily with a friend, and they make friends there out on the gym floor. They’re interested in playing the same thing or they put a little game together, and it’s very organic. It’s fun for the coaches to watch.”
Encouraging community engagement, ROGA plans to host another youth open gym on November 19th, running from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This initiative reflects the academy’s commitment to fostering a healthy and supportive environment for the local youth.
