10+ Best Gymnastics Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read to keep your young gymnast flipping through the pages? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of gymnastics books for 11-year-olds is packed with stories that inspire, entertain, and fuel the gymnastic dreams of pre-teens. Whether they're just starting out or perfecting their routine, these books are sure to captivate and motivate. Keep reading to discover our top picks for gymnastics books that will have your 11-year-old tumbling head over heels in love with reading!

Fun Gymnastics Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Gymnastics Book: The Young Performer's Guide to Gymnastics by Elfi Schlegel and Claire Dunn
  • Genre(s): Sports, Instructional, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers everything about gymnastics, from equipment and moves to tips for competitions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's educational and engaging, providing clear instructions and advice that are perfect for beginners and intermediate gymnasts.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts looking to improve their skills and knowledge about the sport.

• Perfect Balance: Gymnastics Series Book 1 by Melisa Torres
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follows the story of young gymnast, Taylor, who strives to balance her school life with her passion for gymnastics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's relatable and inspiring, showing the challenges and triumphs of a young athlete, which can motivate readers to pursue their own passions.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories about sports and overcoming challenges.

• I've Got This! (Perfect Balance Gymnastics Series Book 2) by Melisa Torres
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Continues the journey of young gymnasts as they tackle new routines, friendships, and competitions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It builds on the themes of perseverance and teamwork, which are great lessons for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoyed the first book or any child interested in gymnastics and stories about personal growth.

• Gymnastics Jitters (Jake Maddox Girl Sports Stories) by Jake Maddox, illustrated by Katie Wood
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Dana is excited to compete in her first gymnastics meet but starts to feel nervous. She learns how to manage her anxiety with the help of her coach and teammates.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses the common issue of performance anxiety and provides coping strategies, which can be beneficial for young readers in any high-pressure situation.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy sports stories and those who might be looking for ways to handle their own jitters.

• Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance by Simone Biles
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This autobiography details the life of Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, from her early days in foster care to her rise in gymnastics and her triumph at the Olympics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's incredibly inspiring and offers a firsthand look at the hard work and dedication required to succeed at the highest levels of gymnastics.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring gymnasts and any young reader who appreciates real-life success stories.

Educational Gymnastics Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Gym Stars: Summertime & Somersaults by Jane Lawes
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Tara loves doing cartwheels and handstands at her local gym club. When the summer camp starts, she can't wait to perfect her skills, but she finds that it's not just about gymnastics; friendships and fun play a big part too.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, persistence, and understanding the balance between competition and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging story that captures the excitement and challenges of gymnastics, while also emphasizing the importance of friendships.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who enjoy a mix of sports and stories about friendships.

• Flipping Forward Twisting Backward by Alma Fullerton
  • Genre(s): Sports, Middle Grade Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mattie, an aspiring gymnast, struggles with balancing her gymnastics goals and the changes in her family life. She learns important lessons about resilience and self-confidence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-discipline.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a realistic look at the life of a young gymnast facing personal and athletic challenges, providing readers with relatable scenarios and valuable life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are dealing with their own personal challenges and enjoy stories where characters overcome adversity through sports.

• Gymnastics Queen by Kylie Jean
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Kylie Jean decides she wants to be a gymnastics queen! Join her as she enrolls in gymnastics class and works hard to learn new moves and routines, aiming to win a gold medal.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Goal-setting, determination, and physical fitness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspirational and shows how dedication and hard work can help achieve goals, making it perfect for motivating young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young girls who dream of becoming gymnasts and love stories about determination and success.

• Balance Beam Boss by Jake Maddox
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Emily is new to gymnastics but she's determined to excel at the balance beam. She faces challenges but learns that with perseverance and focus, she can overcome any obstacle.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Focus, perseverance, and athletic skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great story of personal growth and overcoming fears, which can be very encouraging for young readers facing their own challenges.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy sports stories with a focus on personal development and overcoming fears.

Challenging Gymnastics Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Science of Gymnastics: An Inside Look at the Physics and Engineering by Dr. Jennifer Lawson
  • Genre(s): Science, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book explores the fascinating science behind gymnastics, explaining the principles of physics and engineering that allow gymnasts to perform their incredible feats.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts and applies them to the sport, making it a stimulating read for those interested in both gymnastics and science.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on gymnastics, encouraging readers to appreciate the sport from a scientific viewpoint and possibly spark an interest in physics.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who are also budding scientists or anyone curious about how science applies to sports.

• Advanced Gymnastics for Girls: Elite Techniques and Tips by Emma B. Roberts
  • Genre(s): Sports, Instructional
  • Synopsis: This manual delves into advanced gymnastics techniques, offering detailed guidance on improving skills and mastering elite moves.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers advanced-level skills and techniques, requiring readers to have a foundational understanding of gymnastics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a comprehensive resource for serious young gymnasts aiming to take their skills to the next level, with expert advice and step-by-step instructions.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring elite gymnasts looking for detailed, professional-level training advice.

• Gymnastics Psychology: The Ultimate Guide for Coaches, Gymnasts and Parents by Dr. Patrick Cohn and Lisa Cohn
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book offers insights into the psychological aspects of gymnastics, including mental training techniques to enhance performance and cope with pressure.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles the complex psychological elements involved in sports performance, requiring readers to engage with and understand mental health concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's crucial for developing a strong mental approach to gymnastics and other high-pressure situations, providing strategies that are beneficial both in and out of the gym.
  • Perfect for: Gymnasts who want to strengthen their mental game, as well as coaches and parents who support them.

• The Gymnast's Mind: A Comprehensive Guide to Mental Toughness by Dr. Susan Ellis
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Sports
  • Synopsis: This guide discusses the importance of mental toughness in gymnastics and provides exercises and strategies to build resilience and focus.
  • Why this book is challenging: It requires readers to self-reflect and apply psychological exercises to their training, which can be complex for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps gymnasts understand and improve their mental strength, which is essential for success in the sport.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who are serious about enhancing their mental fortitude alongside their physical skills.

• Twists, Turns, and Triumphs: A History of Gymnastics by Gail Devers
  • Genre(s): History, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book traces the history of gymnastics from its ancient origins to the modern Olympics, highlighting key figures and moments in the sport.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of historical information, requiring readers to connect past events with the evolution of gymnastics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep appreciation of the sport's heritage and its impact on today's techniques and competitions.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and gymnastics enthusiasts interested in the origins and development of their sport.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of gymnastics through books, it's a fantastic way to leap into a greater understanding and appreciation of the sport. Especially for 11-year-olds, developing good reading habits can enhance their learning experience. Below are some exercises that can make reading about gymnastics not only informative but also incredibly fun. Let's check them out!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and discipline in reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to build confidence.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes reading time special.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and free from distractions.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Start a book club focused on gymnastics-themed books.
  • How it helps: Promotes discussion and deeper understanding of the material.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meetings to discuss the book's themes and characters.

• Visual Vocabulary Journal
  • What it is: Keep a journal for new words especially related to gymnastics.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and understanding of gymnastics terminology.
  • Tips: Use the new words in sentences or try to include them in conversation.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep the summaries concise and revisit them before continuing the book.

• Reading Timer Challenge
  • What it is: Set a timer and read uninterrupted until it goes off.
  • How it helps: Builds concentration and stamina for reading longer pieces.
  • Tips: Gradually increase the time as you get more comfortable.

These exercises are tailored to help young readers not only enjoy their gymnastics books but also develop skills that are beneficial across all areas of learning. Whether it’s through setting reading goals or starting a fun book club, each step taken is a move towards becoming a more proficient reader. So, grab your gymnastics book, flip to the first page, and let the adventure begin! Happy reading!