If your child has caught the gymnastics bug, you're probably wondering where to start when it comes to equipment. Whether they're taking classes at a local club, training at home, or just love tumbling around the living room — having the right kit can make a huge difference to their development, safety, and enjoyment.
This guide covers the best gymnastics equipment for kids, what to look for when buying, and how to create a safe home training environment that your little gymnast will love.
What to Consider Before You Buy
- Age and ability — equipment should match your child's current skill level, not where you hope they'll be in a year
- Safety first — always prioritise products that are tested, stable, and age-appropriate
- Space — measure your available space before buying anything bulky
- Budget — start with the essentials and build from there as their skills develop
The Best Gymnastics Equipment for Kids
1. A Gymnastics Balance Mat
A good quality mat is the single most important piece of equipment for any young gymnast training at home. It provides cushioning for rolls, cartwheels, and landings, and gives kids the confidence to try new skills without fear of hurting themselves on a hard floor.
Look for a mat that's thick enough to absorb impact, non-slip on the underside, and easy to wipe clean (because kids!). Our Balance Addicts Handstand Balance Mat ticks all of these boxes and is a brilliant starting point for any home gymnastics setup.
2. Handstand Blocks
Handstand blocks aren't just for advanced gymnasts — they're actually a fantastic tool for beginners and younger kids too. They help redistribute weight away from the wrists, making handstand practice much more comfortable and reducing the risk of wrist strain.
For kids who are just starting to explore handstands and inversions, blocks give them a safer, more controlled experience. Our Balance Addicts Handstand Blocks are lightweight, smooth-edged, and designed with comfort in mind — perfect for smaller hands.
3. Handstand Canes
As kids progress beyond basic handstands, handstand canes open up a whole new world of training possibilities. They allow for greater elevation, better grip, and more advanced skill development — making them a popular choice for young gymnasts who are serious about improving.
Our Balance Addicts Pro Mini Handstand Canes are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for younger athletes who are ready to take their training to the next level.
4. Gymnastics Ankle Weights
Ankle weights are a brilliant conditioning tool for young gymnasts looking to build leg strength, improve their splits, and develop the muscle control needed for more advanced skills. They're simple, versatile, and can be incorporated into almost any training routine.
As with all resistance training for children, start light and focus on form over load. Our Balance Addicts Gymnastics Ankle Weights are a great option — comfortable to wear and easy to adjust as your child grows stronger.
5. Gymnastics Chalk
If your child is training on bars, canes, or blocks, chalk is an essential addition to their kit bag. It improves grip, reduces slipping, and helps kids feel more confident and secure during training.
A little goes a long way — liquid chalk is a particularly tidy option that won't leave white dust all over your home!
Creating a Safe Home Training Space
- Clear the space — remove any furniture, sharp edges, or obstacles from the training area
- Use a mat — always train on a mat, never on bare hard flooring
- Check ceiling height — make sure there's enough clearance for jumps and inversions
- Supervise younger children — especially when they're trying new skills or using equipment for the first time
- Warm up first — even a short 5-minute warm-up reduces the risk of injury significantly
When to Upgrade
As your child's skills develop, their equipment needs will change. A good rule of thumb is to upgrade when:
- They've mastered the skills their current equipment supports
- They're training more than 3 times per week
- They're joining a competitive team or taking regular classes
Starting simple and building gradually is always the best approach — both for your budget and for your child's development.
The Bottom Line
Gymnastics is one of the most rewarding sports a child can take up — it builds strength, flexibility, discipline, and confidence in equal measure. With the right equipment and a safe training environment, your little gymnast will have everything they need to thrive.
Take a look at our full range at balanceaddicts.com and find the perfect starting kit for your child. And if you're not sure where to begin, our Gymnastics Bundle is a brilliant all-in-one option that covers all the essentials in one go.
Happy training! 🤸♀️