Jumping jacks challenge raises essential funds for gymnastics club

A sponsored jumping jacks challenge raised £1,100 to help a local community-focused gymnastics club move into a new facility.

Young gymnasts at Gaia Gymnastics and Wellness completed a combined total of 21,592 jumping jacks within seven days to raise the money. Head coach and owner Leilah Antram also took on the challenge while six months pregnant.

“Siblings, parents, horses, dogs, cats and even teddy bears joined in the encouragement,” said Janna Baker, trampoline coach at the club. “It became a brilliant team effort that brought lots of smiles as well as a lot of jumping. We couldn’t be prouder of our gymnasts.”

The money raised will help the club, a Community Interest Company (CIC) currently operating from Leighton Recreation Centre, move to its own dedicated gymnastics facility in Edington.

“We’re currently running for just two evenings per week from the recreation centre,” said Chris, one of the club’s directors, at a recent Westbury Area Board meeting. “The sports centre is unable to offer any further availability, and we’re looking to expand.

“The aim is to offer increased recreational gymnastics and trampolining classes and become the foremost facility providing a range of courses to all participants, no matter their age or ability.

“Our club is dedicated to nurturing both body and mind through mindfulness and movement. We focus on supporting children’s physical health and mental wellbeing, fostering an environment where every child feels valued, encouraged and empowered, and we build their confidence in celebrating success.”

The club combines coaching in gymnastics and trampolining with mindfulness techniques. Sessions are deliberately kept small, an approach particularly beneficial for children with anxiety or special educational needs (SEN).

“With diagnoses continuing to rise among young people, the club’s mindful coaching style aims to create a calm, supportive environment where children can build confidence and enjoy sport,” said Janna.

The club is still crowdfunding for the new facility.

To donate, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/gaia-gymnastics-and-wellness-building