MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii -- Collectively, our nation strives to encourage greatness and achievement in our young people.
National Gymnastics Day seeks to introduce the value of physical fitness for every age, race, gender and ability level.
Several young, smiling faces came together Aug. 2 to celebrate National Gymnastics Day at the Family Gym aboard MCB Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay.
"Gymnastics stimulates children's physical, emotional, and psychological abilities," said Di Roden, founder of the Dance Movement Academy aboard MCB Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. "This challenging sport inspires children to excel in life and accomplish their dreams."
The children, ranging from ages 3 to 14, demonstrated what they have learned over the year by proudly showing off their ability to do handstands, tumbling, cartwheels and balance beam exercises.
"Each exercise tests the children in different ways," said Roden. "These exercises prove their ability to show physical control, strength and coordination."
The exercises were divided into five different categories. While on the balance beam, physical control and strength were key. The young athletes showed their upper torso strength and coordination on the gymnastic bars.
Many of the children found the trampoline amusing be-cause it gave them a chance to practice their form with more precision while in mid-air.
In the final two categories, children displayed speed and power during the vaulting exercises and, with the assistance of Roden by their side, a variety of flips and summersaults.
"The children are learning to be confident in whatever they do," said Roden. "They can stand up and say 'look at me, I can do it.'"
For more information on the gymnastics program aboard MCB Hawaii, call Di Roden at (808) 473-3273.