AboutMark Williams Expertise My expertise is primarily with men`s gymnastics at all levels. General questions about gymnastics and Olympic and World Championship competitions are also areas which I have knowledge.
Experience Head Coach at the University of Oklahoma, 1996 Assistant Olympic Coach for US Men''s Team, 1999 Head Coach of Pan American Games US Men''s Team
Expert: Mark Williams Date: 7/2/2008 Subject: 7 yr old getting serious about gymnastics
Question My son is 7 and was just asked to be on his gym's boys team. I am concerned about him getting too serious about one sport at such a young age. Will it be too late if he only does recreational or preteam until he is 10?
I am also concerned about the cost as he has 2 siblings and it is expensive.
Answer Teresa-
These are valid concerns. When is it too soon to specialize in one sport. Use your son's interest as a gauge. If he really likes it and has talent for the sport, allow him as many opportunities that you can afford. There can be a lot accomplished on a time from age 7-10. With a good coach and program, your son will stay on track with other gymnasts around the country. To be competitive with the competition system in this country, I would say that waiting until he is 10 would be too late. If he doesn't have a high level of interest or ability for the sport, then the recreational side of the sport is the way to go.
