10+ Best Gymnastics Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to inspire your budding gymnast? Look no further! Our curated selection of gymnastics books for 9-year-olds is packed with stories that leap off the page, sparking imagination and passion for the sport. Whether your child is a beginner or already flipping like a pro, these books are sure to keep them engaged and dreaming big. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will have your young gymnast flipping pages as quickly as they flip on the mats!

Fun Gymnastics Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Gymnastics Jitters by Jake Maddox
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Dana and her gymnastics team head to a big competition, but Dana struggles with nerves that threaten to undermine her performance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles the common issue of performance anxiety, offering coping strategies that are useful both in and out of sports.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts and any child dealing with nerves in competitive situations.

• I Will Try by Marilyn Janovitz
  • Genre(s): Sports, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A young girl uses her imagination to master new gymnastics moves, learning the importance of persistence and self-belief.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages persistence and creativity in solving problems, which are valuable skills for children.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy gymnastics and those who need a little motivation to keep trying when things get tough.

• Balance Beam Boss by Melisa Torres
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ellie dreams of becoming a top gymnast but must balance her ambition with her schoolwork and friendships.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic look at the life of a young athlete, emphasizing the importance of balance in life.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring gymnasts and any child juggling multiple responsibilities.

• Cartwheel Katie by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Tammy Lyon
  • Genre(s): Sports, Early Reader
  • Synopsis: Katie is excited to show off her new gymnastics skills at school, but things don’t go as planned.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and relatable story that teaches resilience and the joy of sharing your passions with friends.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are starting to explore their interests and learn about overcoming setbacks.

• Gymnastics Queen by Kylie Jean
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Kylie Jean decides she wants to be a gymnastics queen, so she sets out to learn all she can about the sport and compete in a big contest.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspiring and shows that with determination and hard work, you can achieve your dreams.
  • Perfect for: Young girls who dream big and are looking for a role model in perseverance and sportsmanship.

Educational Gymnastics Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Gymnast Stars: Meet Emma! by Jane Lawes
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Emma is a young gymnast who dreams of winning a medal at her local gymnastics competition. Despite facing challenges, she learns valuable lessons about teamwork and dedication.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, dedication, goal-setting
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a positive message about the importance of hard work and cooperation in sports.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts and readers who enjoy stories about personal growth and teamwork.

• Flip! How the Frisby Became a Sport by Molly Schaar Idle
  • Genre(s): Sports, History
  • Synopsis: This illustrated book tells the story of how gymnastics evolved from ancient practices to a modern Olympic sport, focusing on key figures and moments.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of sports evolution
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an educational look at the history of gymnastics, making it engaging with vivid illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in sports history and how past practices shape today’s competitions.

• Grace, Gold, and Glory My Leap of Faith by Gabrielle Douglas and Michelle Burford
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This autobiography shares the inspiring journey of Olympic gymnast Gabrielle Douglas, who overcame numerous obstacles to achieve her dreams.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Inspirational, resilience, understanding of professional sports
  • Why we recommend this book: Gabrielle's story is incredibly motivating, showing the power of perseverance and faith.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and readers looking for a real-life hero story.

• Mia's Recipe for Disaster by Coco Simon
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: Mia loves gymnastics but when she tries to balance her sport with a baking contest, she learns valuable lessons about time management and following your passions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Time management, multitasking, pursuing passions
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and relatable story that teaches about the importance of balancing different interests.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who have other hobbies and interests besides sports.

• Jump, Leap, Count Sheep! by Geraldo Valério
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Educational
  • Synopsis: Through vibrant illustrations, this book teaches counting and basic math concepts using gymnastics movements and scenarios.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Counting, basic math skills, physical education
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively integrates learning with physical activity, making education fun and dynamic.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy active learning and parents looking for educational yet entertaining books.

Challenging Gymnastics Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Science Behind Gymnastics by L.E. Carmichael
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book explores the physics and mechanics behind gymnastic moves, explaining how gymnasts use science to enhance their performances.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts like physics and biomechanics, tailored to a young audience but still maintaining a high level of detail.
  • Why we recommend this book: It deepens the reader's understanding of gymnastics beyond the physical execution, fostering a greater appreciation for the sport and encouraging an interest in science.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who are curious about the 'how' and 'why' behind their movements, as well as science enthusiasts.

• Gymnastics Psychology: The Ultimate Guide for Coaches, Gymnasts and Parents by Joe Massimo and Sue Massimo
  • Genre(s): Sports, Psychology, Guide
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide delves into the psychological aspects of gymnastics, offering strategies to improve mental toughness and performance.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers advanced psychological concepts and techniques that are usually tailored for coaches and parents but can greatly benefit young advanced readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides tools not only for improving gymnastic performance but also for handling stress and anxiety, which are beneficial in various aspects of life.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in both gymnastics and the mental strategies athletes use to excel.

• The Gymnastics Book: The Young Performer's Guide to Gymnastics by Elfi Schlegel and Claire Dunn
  • Genre(s): Sports, Educational, Guide
  • Synopsis: This guide covers everything from the history of gymnastics to tips on training and preparing for competitions.
  • Why this book is challenging: It offers a thorough exploration of gymnastics, from its origins to professional tips on performance, catering to readers who are serious about the sport.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an all-encompassing resource that helps young gymnasts improve their skills and knowledge, preparing them for higher levels of competition.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts aiming to take their skills to the next level and those interested in the history and technicalities of the sport.

• Winning Balance: What I’ve Learned So Far about Love, Faith, and Living Your Dreams by Shawn Johnson, with Nancy French
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson shares her journey through gymnastics, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned about balancing life and her dreams.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex themes of self-identity, faith, and perseverance through adversities, providing profound insights for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires readers with real-life struggles and triumphs, encouraging them to pursue their dreams while maintaining a balanced life.
  • Perfect for: Young gymnasts who admire Olympic athletes and anyone looking for motivational life stories.

• Letters to a Young Gymnast by Nadia Comaneci
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Sports
  • Synopsis: Nadia Comaneci, the first gymnast to score a perfect ten in the Olympics, recounts her journey from a small town in Romania to becoming a world-renowned gymnast.
  • Why this book is challenging: It provides an introspective look into the life of an elite gymnast, discussing complex emotional and physical demands of the sport.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective from one of gymnastics' most iconic figures, inspiring discipline, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in the history of gymnastics and those looking for a role model in sports and life perseverance.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of gymnastics books for your 9-year-old, you're in for a treat! Not only are these books fun and educational, but they also offer a fantastic opportunity to develop solid reading habits. Here are some exercises that can make reading even more engaging and beneficial for young gymnastics enthusiasts.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special place at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable, distraction-free environment that enhances focus.
  • Tips: Let your child help in setting up their reading space with cushions, a small lamp, and some of their favorite things.

• Book Discussion Dates
  • What it is: Schedule regular times to discuss the book with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and verbal skills, and makes reading a social activity.
  • Tips: Prepare some questions or topics for discussion to guide the conversation.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the story and boosts creativity.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, or paints to make it more exciting.

• Reading Relay
  • What it is: Take turns reading aloud with a parent or a sibling.
  • How it helps: Builds fluency and confidence in reading out loud.
  • Tips: Choose a comfortable and quiet time of day to enjoy this activity together.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

By integrating these exercises into your child’s reading routine, not only will they enjoy their gymnastics books more, but they'll also develop a lifelong love for reading. So, grab those books, get comfy, and let the reading adventure begin!