Emma Hartley’s journey to becoming one of the most talked-about up-and-coming gymnasts of 2025 didn’t begin in a state-of-the-art training facility or under the watchful eye of a professional coach. Instead, it started in her living room, where a 6-year-old Emma would somersault across the carpet while her mom nervously moved the coffee table out of the way. Fast forward a decade, and Emma’s story is inspiring parents and kids alike to explore the exciting world of gymnastics.

If you’ve ever wondered how gymnasts discover their talent or how your child can get started, Emma’s story is the perfect guide.

The Spark That Ignited Emma’s Passion

Like many kids, Emma had boundless energy. Whether climbing the monkey bars at recess or flipping off the couch, she always seemed to be in motion. Her parents recognized her natural inclination for gymnastics when she began mimicking routines from the Olympics she saw on TV. “She would watch Simone Biles and Gabby Douglas with awe,” Emma’s mom recalls. “Then, she’d try to replicate their moves right there in the living room!”

It wasn’t long before Emma’s parents decided to enroll her in a beginner gymnastics class at their local gym. “We thought it would just be a fun way for her to burn off some energy,” her dad said. Little did they know, that small decision would set Emma on a path to greatness.

How Emma’s Journey Progressed

Emma quickly outgrew her beginner class, moving on to intermediate and competitive levels within just two years. Her coaches noticed her dedication early on. “Emma had something special,” her first coach, Sarah, shared. “It wasn’t just her natural ability—it was her focus and determination.”

But Emma’s rise wasn’t without challenges. She struggled with fear during her first beam routine and faced the frustration of falling during competitions. However, her love for the sport kept her motivated. “I learned that falling is part of the process,” Emma said. “Each time I fell, I got back up stronger.”

Her biggest breakthrough came at 13, when she qualified for her first regional competition. Now, at 16, Emma is training for national-level competitions and serves as a role model for younger gymnasts at her gym.

How Your Child Can Start in Gymnastics

Emma’s journey proves that great gymnasts often begin with small, simple steps. If your child shows interest in gymnastics—or even just an excess of energy—here’s how you can help them get started:

1. Find a Local Gymnastics Program

Begin by searching for beginner classes at a local gym or recreation center. Many facilities offer trial sessions so your child can see if gymnastics is a good fit.

2. Focus on Fun First

Emma’s parents let her enjoy gymnastics without pressure in the early stages. Make sure your child is having fun rather than worrying about perfection.

3. Invest in Basic Equipment

While you don’t need to build a home gym, tools like a beginner balance beam or a practice mat can help your child practice safely at home.

4. Be Patient

Gymnastics takes time, and progress isn’t always linear. Celebrate small milestones, like mastering a forward roll or cartwheel, to keep your child motivated.

Why Gymnastics Is Great for Kids

Gymnastics isn’t just about becoming the next Olympic champion. It’s a sport that builds confidence, discipline, and physical fitness. Kids who participate in gymnastics often develop stronger coordination, flexibility, and resilience. Emma’s mom shared how gymnastics transformed her daughter. “She went from being shy and unsure to a confident, determined young woman. Gymnastics taught her so much more than how to flip—it taught her how to believe in herself.”

A Bright Future for Aspiring Gymnasts

As Emma Hartley prepares for her next competition, she hopes her story will inspire other kids to give gymnastics a try. “You don’t have to be perfect when you start,” Emma says. “Just be willing to learn and have fun.”

Whether your child dreams of competing one day or simply wants a fun, engaging activity, gymnastics can be the perfect choice. Like Emma, their journey could begin with a single somersault in the living room—and who knows where it might lead?

Ready to Start?

Emma’s story reminds us that every gymnast starts somewhere, often with small, hesitant steps. If you think your child might enjoy gymnastics, there’s no better time than now to explore this exciting sport. Whether they dream of competing or just want to have fun and stay active, gymnastics offers endless opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.

As Emma herself says, “You don’t have to be the best when you start—you just have to start.”

How Gymnastics Prepares Kids for Life Beyond the Mat

Emma’s journey highlights an often-overlooked benefit of gymnastics: the life skills it instills. Beyond the routines and competitions, gymnastics prepares kids for challenges they will face in other areas of life.

Emma’s coach, Sarah, shared how gymnastics teaches perseverance. “When a gymnast falls off the beam or struggles with a new skill, they learn to get back up and try again. That resilience carries over into school, relationships, and eventually their careers.”

For Emma, this lesson became evident during her first regional competition. “I fell on my first pass and wanted to cry,” Emma recalls. “But my coach reminded me to focus on what I could control—the rest of the routine. I finished strong, and that was a turning point for me.”

This mindset can benefit any child, even those who don’t plan to pursue gymnastics competitively. The discipline and focus they develop can translate into success in academics, teamwork, and personal goals.

Encouraging Parents: Gymnastics Is for Everyone

Some parents worry that their child might not “fit” into gymnastics. Emma’s mom has a message for them: “You don’t need to have an Olympic-bound child to benefit from gymnastics. The joy, confidence, and friendships my daughter has gained are worth every practice session and competition.”

If you’re a parent on the fence, consider taking Emma’s mom’s advice: “Start small. Enroll in a fun class, and let your child explore. You might be surprised where it leads.”

For Emma, that first small step led to a world of opportunity, personal growth, and memories she’ll carry forever. And for your child, it could be the start of their own unique and rewarding journey in gymnastics.

Ready to Start Your Own Gymnastics Journey?

Emma’s story reminds us that every gymnast starts somewhere, often with small, hesitant steps. If you think your child might enjoy gymnastics, there’s no better time than now to explore this exciting sport. Whether they dream of competing or just want to have fun and stay active, gymnastics offers endless opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.