Academy
The Academy – Science-Based Gymnastics Resources
Free, research-backed guidance from Kensington & Chelsea Gymnastics.
Written by Dr. Stefan Kolimechkov and invited experts. New articles weekly.
✅ Parent-friendly tips
✅ Research summaries
✅ Presentations & videos
Welcome to the Academy – the UK’s Home for Science-Based Gymnastics Resources
At Kensington & Chelsea Gymnastics, we believe that knowledge is just as important as practice. That’s why we created the Academy: a free, science-based resource hub for parents, gymnasts, and anyone who cares about children’s health and development.
Here, you’ll find much more than blog posts. The Academy brings together:
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Expert tips to help your child progress safely and confidently.
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Research-backed articles based on peer-reviewed studies by Dr. Stefan Kolimechkov and invited experts.
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Presentations from international conferences (ACSM, ECSS, and more), adapted into parent-friendly insights.
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Broader health and lifestyle guidance, connecting gymnastics with nutrition, physical activity, and lifelong wellbeing.
Our goal is simple: to make this the UK’s number one science-based gymnastics blog — a trusted space where parents can learn, explore, and find answers, all in one place.
Every article is free to access, because we believe that the more parents know, the better their children thrive. Whether your child is just starting gymnastics or already on their journey, the Academy is here to support you with knowledge, science, and care.
Gymnastics Tips for Parents
Practical advice you can use at home or in class. From posture and body alignment to fun progressions, these tips give your child the tools to grow in confidence and skill.
Science-Based Articles
Gymnastics knowledge you can trust. Based on peer-reviewed studies by Dr. Stefan Kolimechkov and colleagues, these articles translate cutting-edge science into parent-friendly guidance.
Presentations & Conferences
Global expertise, shared locally. Here you’ll find talks and presentations delivered at world-class conferences such as ACSM and ECSS, made accessible for parents and young gymnasts.
Gymnastics & Beyond
Gymnastics is only the beginning. Explore how sport connects with health, nutrition, physical education, and lifelong wellbeing for children and families.
Start Exploring the Academy
Below you’ll find our latest articles, tips, and resources. Each post is written to give you practical advice, scientific insights, or inspiration for your child’s gymnastics journey.
Whether you’re looking for simple tips to support your child at home, or you want to dive deeper into the science behind the sport, this library is here for you — free, always accessible, and updated regularly.
👉 Choose a post that interests you, or browse by category above.
Our Latest Resources
Browse our newest science-based gymnastics articles, tips, and presentations. Updated regularly with content you can trust.
Why Gymnastics Builds Healthier, Happier Children in Kensington
Why Gymnastics Builds Healthier, Happier Children in Kensington As a gymnastics coach and sports scientist, I’ve seen first-hand how this sport transforms children — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too. At Kensington & Chelsea Gymnastics, we...
The Handstand: A Four Stage Training Model
The Handstand: A Four Stage Training Modelby Valentin UzunovKensington & Chelsea Gymnastics Academy is thrilled to share an insightful article on handstand training with all of you! We're incredibly fortunate to have a special guest contributor and a good friend,...
Body Mass Index
Body Mass Index for ChildrenThis article focuses on one of the most applied methods for assessing weight and nutritional status in children, the Body Mass Index (BMI). Although the BMI value is calculated the same way for children and adults, the criteria used to...
Aerobic Fitness Norms
Aerobic Fitness NormsAssessing Children's Aerobic Fitness by using sports software with international norms At Kensington & Chelsea Gymnastics Academy, we take a holistic approach to developing young athletes. While strength, flexibility, and coordination are...
Handgrip Strength Norms
Handgrip Strength NormsBoost Your Gymnast's Isometric Strength with the Handgrip Strength Test! Understanding your child's progress is essential for their development. Handgrip strength is a key indicator of their physical abilities. Let's dive into how you can...
Standing Long Jump Norms
Standing Long Jump NormsBoost Your Gymnast's Explosive Strength with the Standing Long Jump! Discover the Power of the Standing Long Jump for Your Child's Fitness Journey. As a parent, you want the best for your child's health and well-being. That's why I'm excited to...