FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We recommend enrolling in an age-based class first to give students a chance to adapt to our space, teaching style, and class structure. From there, we'll evaluate which class will best suit them moving forward. Alternatively, if you have a progress report from another program, we can use that to determine their placement. You can also schedule a private lesson (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwXHlZHtjtKy3wFYAJ1F0UjdaLFQMbAbc0e-ks6WEmfYKxHQ/viewform)for an evaluation. These options waive the level class requirement of previous participation in a CCCS gymnastics session.

We use equipment designed for preschool and elementary-aged youth across all four Women’s Artistic Gymnastics events. This includes multiple bar setups, beams of varying lengths and heights, vault systems (springboards and training mat stacks), carpet-bonded foam, and air tracks. We source our equipment from trusted brands like Tumble Trak, Norbert’s, and Carolina Gym Supply. While our setting is non-traditional, our equipment meets the standards of a traditional gymnastics program. We also incorporate additional training tools, like resi mats and an Olympic-size trampoline. We do not have specialized Men's Artistic Gymnastics equipment (rings, mushroom, pommel horse), rhythmic equipment, or WAG equipment for DP Levels 4+.

Being in a circus tent, of course! Beyond that, we place a strong emphasis on technique and mastery. Our coaches focus on helping gymnasts refine the skills they already have before introducing more advanced ones. This approach can feel repetitive at times, and your child may say something like, “I can already do this!”—especially if they’re eager to move on quickly. Many gymnasts, though, take real pride in making small corrections (like straightening their legs or landing with more control), and their confidence grows as they see their skills improve. At Cap City, we know a strong foundation supports safer gymnastics and longer-term pathways in the sport.

We don’t offer trial classes, as we aim to keep each class consistent for both students and instructors. That said, we completely understand wanting to get a feel for the program before committing. You’re welcome to schedule an individual or group private lesson (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwXHlZHtjtKy3wFYAJ1F0UjdaLFQMbAbc0e-ks6WEmfYKxHQ/viewform)or stop by to observe a class at any time. If you’d like to observe, you can email gymnastics@capcitycircus.com (mailto:gymnastics@capcitycircus.com)in advance or simply drop in after checking our schedule (https://www.capcitycircus.com/gymnastics#schedule)(be sure to note any skip weeks).

Classes don't operate like an open gym or supervised play facility. They are structured and coach-led. While they’re fun and high-energy, each class follows lesson plans that gradually lead to more advanced and refined gymnastics. Gymnasts rotate through stations, receive instruction, and build skills step by step.

Level progression is based on safe and consistent skill execution. Most students spend about 4-6 consecutive sessions in the same class or level building a strong foundation before moving on. We conduct ongoing evaluations and will let you know when your child has met the criteria to move to the next level. You can also review the criteria under each corresponding class description.(https://capcitycircus.com/gymnastics#class-descriptions)

Our program is built on over 20 years of experience coaching recreational athletes and competitive gymnasts from pre-team through Level 10. That experience was developed in Central and Northern Virginia and is now being brought to DC to help fill a gap in high-quality gymnastics instruction.

We don't offer make-ups or class swaps; we do skip high-travel weeks which are listed on the class schedule.