Physical fitness doesn't have to be a chore, and that's the mindset Damian Bunting hopes to encourage at Capital City Gymnastics.
After struggling for several months to find a home for Capital City Gymnastics, Bunting stumbled across the tornado-damaged building at 431 E. McCarty St, which once housed the American Red Cross. He said he knew it would be the perfect space for the new gymnastics studio.
After repairing the building, Capital City Gymnastics opened earlier this month.
Unlike many gymnastic studios, Capital City Gymnastics will not focus on high-level competition but more on the general fitness of the sport, Bunting said.
With a background in competitive gymnastics and more than 25 years of coaching experience, Bunting said he saw some of the negatives of competitive gymnastics - the strenuous training, long hours and negative mindset - overtake the positives of the sport. Instead, he wants to offer short classes that focus on gymnastic skills that could translate to other sports - balance, strength, flexibility and agility.
"Having an aspect where we can utilize the benefits of this sport without them having to commit so much time and effort to it can be a great vehicle for kids to really get in good shape, blow off steam, keep that weight down and be successful," he said.
Capital City Gymnastics offers various classes for those 18 months and older.
Parents who want to get their children started early can enroll in the parents and toddlers class for 18 months to 3-year-olds. Children 4-12 years old can learn simple gymnastic skills like forward rolls, headstands, and how to use the bars and beams in the beginner's class, and Bunting said he will offer a similar class for adults.
There will also be a tumbling class that takes away the bars and beams and focuses on things like cartwheels, back-springs and handstands. Capital City Gymnastics will also offer a strength and conditioning class where athletes can use the rings and bars for fitness training while also incorporating aspects of gymnastics.
While parents wait for their children to finish their gymnastic sessions, they will have access to The Pyramid, another business Bunting runs next door. The Pyramid will offer classes in conjunction with the gymnastics sessions so parents can either receive $15 off their fitness class packages or workout on their own at the facility for free.
Classes cost $60 a month, but the business offers discounts to law enforcement, veterans and state workers.
Those interested can register at capitalcitygymnastics.fun, download the IClass Pro app on Apple products, or call the business at 573-680-8450.
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