Family Stories
What Families Are Saying About Gyminny Kids
For nearly 40 years, families across San Diego have trusted Gyminny Kids to help their children grow on and off the mat while building character through sport.
As we prepare for Gyminny Kid's 40th Anniversary of offering Fun & Fitness (2027), we want to reflect on the previous decades by highlighting some of our client experiences through a testimonial page.
Vanessa H.
Aug 4, 2026 - I love Gyminny poway! My daughter has loved getting to know the gym girls and coaches. The coaches and staff have really shown what it's like to be accepted and welcomed. Robert teaches the adult gymnastics class and it has helped me find the love of gymnastics. Plus pushed me to do things I use to be able to do and now feel like I cannot. Ashleys infectious smile and reassurance when my eldest attempted to take a class and was uncomfortable. She made her feel better and she wants to give it another try. Lauren is amazing she is funny and relatable and an inspiration when she does open gym and the adult class. Plus my kids love her. Alex is quiet, but knowledge and super patient with all these stressed out gymnastics moms. I love this place!!
Amanda N.
Aug 3, 2026 - Warning: long review incoming :D
We've been coming to Gyminny Kids La Costa for camp for the past several weeks (and to classes off and on over the last couple of years), and I can't say enough wonderful things about this place. Since I've been able to stay and work while my daughter is at camp, I've had the opportunity to be a fly on the wall and watch the coaches interact with the kids and it seriously has been such a joy to see.
The coaches are truly exceptional and are what make this place so special. They are patient, kind, and incredibly encouraging, but they also do an amazing job at setting appropriate boundaries and making sure that safety is their top priority (looking at you, trampolines!). But what really stands out is their consistency and genuine care for the kids. Every coach I've observed treats the kids with respect and enthusiasm and takes the time to learn each of their personalities.
I've been incredibly impressed by how the coaches handle the more difficult moments, whether it be a kiddo who is having a hard time following directions, or is feeling overwhelmed, or is straight up having a hard day - the coaches are always patient and professional. They remain calm, are positive, and are super supportive but still maintain structure and expectations of the kiddos. It's very evident that they understand that every kid develops differently and they meet the kids where they are.
One thing that has especially stood out to me is the compassion they show children with special needs or those who may need a little extra support. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, they create an environment where every kiddo feels included and supported and they take the time to connect with them as an individual. As a parent, it means a lot to see that level of empathy and intentionality.
I'm also impressed with how organized everything is. This location is much smaller than their original 4S Ranch location, but even with all the chaos and nonstop energy, the staff operate like a well oiled machine. The transitions between stations, snacks, crafts, games, and gym activities are seamless, and the kids always seem engaged and supervised.
An extra bonus is that they make a point of having each kid wash their hands before eating, keep hand sanitizer and wipes stationed throughout the facility, and do peanut butter checks at snack/lunch since they are a peanut-free facility.
We've been coming to Gyminny Kids locations on and off over the last 10 years and have enjoyed seeing how much they've grown while still maintaining their values. As a parent, it's incredibly reassuring to leave your child somewhere you know they'll be safe, encouraged, and genuinely cared for!
Victoria B.
Jul 31, 2026 - We just moved over to Gyminny Kids 4S Ranch in May and have been very happy. Both of my girls were welcomed with kindness and professionalism. My oldest is in Level 3 on the compulsory team and has Coach Tracie. Coach Tracie has been imperative in helping her build proper form, strength, and flexibility which has helped her become a better gymnast overall. The girls are always working hard and are happy while they are doing it. The front desk staff (Chelsey and Aide in particular) is very friendly and helpful when asking questions (which I have had so many ). We are thankful for this new gymnastics family!
Manda B.
July 15, 2026 - We have been taking our toddler to the camps at the Gyminny Kids 4S Ranch location, and it has been a phenomenal experience. The coaches are incredibly patient, high-energy, and amazing with the little ones.The facility is clean, completely climate-controlled, and extremely safe. It is the perfect environment for a toddler to burn off energy while building core strength, balance, and coordination. The rotating weekly themes keep the class completely engaging, and the unlimited makeup class policy is a lifesaver for busy parents. I highly recommend North County Gymnastics for anyone looking for a fun, structured early movement class!
Jah p.
July 11, 2026 - We have had an absolutely wonderful experience at Gyminny Kids Poway. Both of our kids have been fortunate to learn from several amazing coaches for almost 3 years now, and we couldn't be happier with the positive impact they've had.
A special thank you to the coaches Alex, Ashley, Lauren, and Robert for their dedication, patience, and enthusiasm. Each of them brings a unique energy to every class and does an incredible job of helping children build confidence, develop new skills, and most importantly, have fun while learning. They genuinely care about every child and create a welcoming, encouraging environment where kids feel supported and excited to participate.
We've seen tremendous growth in both of our children—not only in their gymnastics abilities but also in their confidence, discipline, and willingness to try new challenges. It's clear that these coaches are passionate about what they do, and that passion shines through in every interaction.
We highly recommend Gyminny Kids Poway to any parent looking for a fun, professional, and nurturing program for their children! Thank you for making us feel like a family all these years
Justin L.
Jun 25, 2026 - What a joy and privilege it is to have Gymminy Kids La Costa in our community! Our neurodiverse son, who enthusiastically looks forward to his weekly gymnastics adventures here, is treated with unconditional love, acceptance, and belonging, something that is priceless in a world too often unprepared (or unwilling) to let him share in all it has to offer. We are indebted to the kind, caring coaches, staff, and owners who put their hearts and souls into making every child's experience invigorating, encouraging, and fun.
Bethany L.
Jun 25, 2026 - We love Gyminny Kids! My son has been going here for over a year and has attended a variety of classes and camps. My son is autistic and all of the coaches at Gyminny Kids have always been incredible with him, which means the world to us! I highly recommend GK to any families with neurodivergent kiddos (neurotypical ones, too of course), looking for a fun, safe and supportive environment!
Helen l.
Jun 6, 2026 - We have had a great experience here. My son started with their toddler program around age 4, went on the their pre-comp team. Then with help from all the coaches, developed the ability to move on to a boys competition team at their Carlsbad location. Coaches Christina, Lindsay, Brittany, Stephen, Mark and Scott all played a role in his progress! You will generally see the same coaches, and get to know them, so that tells you something about this location. Also offers, ninja classes, tumbling, after school programs, summer and holiday camps. On Friday nights they offer Kids Nights Out and Kids Day Out on Saturday afternoons. It's a great option to get a few hours kid free. It include pizza and the kids will expend their energy as they are kept active, jumping on the bungies, trampolines etc. It's a win win! Staff are flexible, responsive and super helpful!
May S.
May 16, 2026 - We've had such a wonderful experience here for my daughter's gymnastics classes. The coaches are excellent, supportive, and truly care about the kids' progress and confidence. The environment is positive, professional, and welcoming. And the front desk staff are very friendly. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a great gymnastics program for their children!
Rhoda s.
May 7, 2026 - We have been part of the Gyminny Kids Gymnastics family off and on for almost 20 years! My older daughter started there years ago, then my girls attended as toddlers, and now my 10-year-old is back twice a week and absolutely thriving.
As a mom of a developmentally delayed kiddo, I especially appreciate the patience, encouragement, and kindness the coaches consistently show. Lauren has been wonderful, and the entire staff creates such a positive and supportive environment where kids can grow in both confidence and strength while having fun.
Daniel, the owner, is fantastic and truly cares about both the business and his employees, and it shows. The facility is always clean and staff is always so bubbly, welcoming, and genuinely happy to be there, which makes all the difference. We’re so grateful for Gyminny Kids and highly recommend them to any family looking for a caring, fun, and professional gymnastics program!
Darcy C.
Apr 19, 2026 - Since we have moved to NCG, we have been just absolutely thrilled with the progress Mia has made as well how the team dynamics came together so wonderfully. I honestly cannot say a negative thing about our experience so far. As far as positives, the list is endless. I want you to know how PROUD I am to be an NCG parent and for you to know how much it is appreciated that all of your gyms stand up to the NCG name and spirit. As a parent, this is invaluable and makes me confident in continuing to recommend any of your gyms to other parents and again, makes me stand proudly as an NCG parent. Your hard work and dedication to these kids dos not go unnoticed. We appreciate everything you guys do.
Steph E.
Apr 16, 2026 - Our family has been attending gyminny kids 4S ranch for over 5 years. We have done many camps and classes. The boys love coming to gyminny kids. It is a great program to work on gross motor development, strength, confidence and resilience. All of the coaches we have had have been very supportive and encouraging. I also appreciate the flexibility of the program, being able to sign up for one day camps as needed and having flexibility for make up classes. The staff at gyminny kids go above and beyond.
Ana D.
Apr 9, 2026 - My daughter came here as a junior in high school, a Level 9 gymnast with a simple goal--to finish her gymnastics career somewhere she could grow, refine her skills, and feel supported. What she found was so much more than that.
She found coaches who believed in her, pushed her, and cared for her as a whole person--not just an athlete. Her mental and physical well-being were always a priority, and that kind of care is rare.
Because of this environment, she accomplished something we once thought was out of reach--qualifying for Westerns. That moment alone speaks volumes about what this gym and its coaches are capable of.
Coach Ryan and Coach Elizabeth--thank you for pouring into her, for guiding her, and for being such a steady, positive force in her journey. And Nicole, thank you for being the heart of the gym--always greeting her with a smile, especially on the hard days when she needed it most.
This wasn't just a gym for us--it became home.
As my daughter moves on to her next chapter in college, we do so with full hearts and endless gratitude. And the best part? We're not leaving--our two other team gymnasts are proud to continue being part of this amazing family.
Nicky s.
Mar 18, 2026 - This is the first gym that is actually like, extremely clean, and doesn’t smell like feet. they celebrate holidays by decorating, they are super organized, coaches are all professional and also festive and fun. During a class they’re always cleaning mats, bathrooms are spotless, waiting area is massive, the gym itself is massive. Maybe we’ve just had different experiences in the past but this one in carlsbad is beautifully managed and my kids have fun.
Cammie L.
Mar 18, 2026 - Where do I begin... Gyminny Kids Poway is BEYOND amazing. ALL of the staff are incredibly kind, understanding, friendly and knowledgeable.
I want to give a HUGE shoutout to Mr. Robert. Coach Robert is a one of a kind individual. He is patient, passionate, energetic, kind, encouraging and an all around incredible human being. He personalizes the class for each individual student and meets them where they are at.
Gyminny Kids has hit the jackpot with this coach we are so grateful to have him as a role model for our son.
Crysta O.
Mar 14, 2026 - Ms. Ronna is absolutely wonderful and truly makes the gymnastics experience better for both the kids and the parents. She is always so friendly, welcoming, and approachable the moment you walk through the door, which immediately sets a positive tone for the entire visit. Anytime parents or kids have questions about anything gymnastics-related, she is patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely happy to help. Her warm personality and outstanding customer service make families feel supported and valued, and she is clearly a huge asset to the program.
Coach Robert, Coach Alex, Coach Charlie, Coach Lauren, Coach Ashley, and Coach Shayla are also fantastic with the kids. They create a fun, encouraging environment while still helping the kids build confidence, discipline, and new skills. It’s clear they genuinely care about the children and make every class something the kids look forward to.
Gitanjali S.
Feb 21, 2026 - If you are looking for a gymnastics club that balances high-level technical training with a genuinely supportive environment, North County Gymnastics / Gyminny Kids is the place to be. My daughter has been with Gyminny Kids/North County Gymnastics for 4 yrs (3.5 on comp team) and her growth has been amazing. I can't say enough good things about the coaching staff. They strikes the perfect chord between being encouraging and maintaining high standards. They provide constructive feedback that helps the kids understand the "why" behind every movement. Safety is key with a heavy emphasis on teaching proper mechanics to ensure every student is practicing safely. The instructors are patient, ensuring children master foundational techniques before moving on to more complex maneuvers. My child always leaves practices feeling empowered and motivated, thanks to the coaches' ability to celebrate small wins while still pushing for technical excellence. Coach Carrie and Coach Earl are an excellent team. Additionally, the front office staff are truly the heartbeat of the gym. Navigating class schedules, make-up sessions, and billing issues with ease and kindness. They are consistently welcoming, incredibly organized, and go out of their way to ensure every family feels seen and supported, especially Rana who has been with us from the start. But also others like Stephen, Maci, Michael, Alex, and Laryssa (comp team admin). Bottom Line: Between the seamless experience provided by the front office and the expert guidance from the coaches, this gym provides a top-tier experience for both parents and gymnasts.
Cassandra S.
Feb 5, 2026 - As a mom, I couldn't be happier with our experience at North County Gymnastics-Poway. I currently have two girls in their 'developmental program' which is their competitive team. My girls started when they were 1 year old at the Gyminny 4S location and haven't stopped!
The coaches for rec and competitive classes are kind, patient, and truly invested in each child's growth, both physically and emotionally. I love that they focus on proper technique while still making practices fun and encouraging. The gym is always clean and well organized, and I feel confident knowing my child is learning in a safe, positive environment. Seeing my children's confidence grow because of their ever developing physical abilities has been a true highlight.
Vi L.
February 2, 2026 - There is something unique and truly special about this gymnastics gym that you may not notice after 1 or 2 classes. I have taken my kids to multiple gymnastics locations around North County and as someone who can be critical of service/support/scheduling flexibility, this place far exceeded the others for several reasons. Come closer and I’ll tell you why…
1. Moving up levels – At other places when your kid moves from toddler to young kid class, the level of attention may change. At other places, coaches seem uninterested and overall feel like they don’t want to be there. Parts of the class like stretching, technical skills on the bar drag on without watching their form. There is a persistent focus at Gyminny Kids. I truly love seeing this. EVERY coach is phenomenal. Gyminny focuses on building up skills, mastering form, and lots of variety.
2. Adjustments to child personalities – My daughter is on the spectrum and we may have a day where she cries and doesn’t want to be there. They are patient, warm, and welcoming.
3. Career coaches – Every coach has years of experience. They are not kids who come out of high school or college that have cheered or completed gymnastics once upon a time doing a part-time gig. I see the difference across all of their coaches.
4. Super clean atmosphere. Baby/toddler playroom.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a place that respects severe nut allergies, they don’t allow any nuts in their facility. Bummer for my peanut butter lovin’ kids, but I love the consideration of others.
My kids (6) and (9) have grown confidence and a strong foundation to excel in many other types of sports/activities.
We’ve been going to Gyminny Kids for 2 years and will continue bc it’s just that great of a place.
Prices competitive. Not super cheap and not outrageous. They offer Friday date nights and really awesome camps for spring, summer, and winter breaks.
10/10 recommend.
Christine Millay
Hi Everyone! Here's a little note from our family in honor of your 30th Anniversary :)
Gyminny Kids is so awesome! My three children, ages 11, 9, and 7, have been taking classes here for five years. The main reason we love Gyminny Kids is the caring, talented teachers. Even though the teachers have lots of students, they bond with each one. They really get to know each child and understand their likes and dislikes, as well as their learning styles.
My kids have learned so much from each teacher, and have adored each of them. I have even hired three instructors as babysitters.
One of the best things about the gym is that the kids can take classes together, even though they are at different levels. That means I only have to make one trip to the gym a week! It's so great!
Thank you, Gyminny Kids, for being so wonderful and for all of the kindness you have shown our family. We love you all!
Sincerely,
Christine Millay
The Land Family
Land Family & Gyminny Kids
Sean joined the Demo Team in 2006 and performed with them until the formation of the competition team in 2013.
When Daniel announced the start of the Boys competition team, Sean and the rest of the Boys Demo team were ready to go.
Sean competed at Levels 5, 6, 8, and 10 for 2 years. He will be competing as a 2nd-year Level 10 in this, his last year at North County Gymnastics.
We want to thank Gyminny Kids / North County for providing a safe and positive gymnastics environment, which allowed both of our children to thrive.
Joyce Ryan / David Ryan / Shannon Ryan
Happy Anniversary, Gyminny Kids Owners and Staff!
I began bringing my son and daughter to Gyminny Kids early in 2004, when he was 4, and she was 1. They grew up coming to two classes every week. It was the highlight of their week. They love gymnastics and always feel at home at Gyminny Kids. I saw bringing them to GK as far more than fun; they learned many life lessons, including skills they use every day, as well as how to interact socially, competitively, and academically.
Plus, the fitness benefits are great! My son continued taking classes for 14 years, and my daughter for 13 years. I loved watching them have fun, be active, and master new skills. My thanks to Gyminny Kids for so many good years!
Joyce Ryan
I took classes at Gyminny Kids since I was 4, and just finished because I'm leaving for college soon. But my gymnastics class each week of those fourteen years was one of the best parts of my week. My coaches were amazing teachers and great friends. I learned so much and had so much fun; I only wish I could continue taking gymnastics while in college.
-David Ryan
I started attending gymnastics classes here at Gyminny Kids when I was 1.5 years old. I continued taking gymnastics classes here throughout my childhood. When I was eleven years old, I joined the first competitive girls' gymnastics team here. I competed with the team for about two years before deciding to go back to simply doing it recreationally.
I continued to take classes until I had to take a break due to an injury. Although I am currently not enrolled in any classes due to scheduling issues, I can't wait to start retaking classes. Because I grew up spending so much time here, something is missing when I am not attending regular classes.
The staff here has always been so nice. Even though I may not know some of the newer faces, I'm sure they are amazing people, and I hope to meet them someday. Some of the staff here have known me since I was a toddler, and they are such kind people and amazing mentors.
North County Gymnastics and Gyminny Kids have greatly impacted my life growing up, only in positive ways. Having grown up here, the lessons I learned in gymnastics classes became part of who I am.
For example: I always run on my toes, constantly walk on curbs, can cartwheel anytime, only do front flips off diving boards, surprise friends with backflips on trampolines, I know how to stretch properly, respect authority, listen to directions, accept constructive criticism, deal with injuries properly, know how to fall in safer ways, and act as a good person in society.
At this point, I have been a Gyminny Kid for about 13.5 years. NCG will always be very important to me, and an incredibly influential part of my childhood.
Congratulations on thirty years North County Gymnastics!!!
Forever a Gyminny Kid,
-Shannon Ryan
Ellie Manzke
Dear Gyminny Kids/NCG,
You have all taught me so much, gymnastics and good character traits. I've loved every single recital that I've performed at. Now I'm on the competitive team, and I love competing in front of judges with my teammates. I love my coaches, my teammates, and my gym, North County Gymnastics!
Love,
Ellie Manzke
The Moehlig Family
Happy 30th Anniversary to Gyminny Kids!!!
We are so happy to be part of the Gyminny Kids/NCG family!
When Sam was born, we were told by doctors that they did not think he would walk or talk due to prenatal and premature complications. When he was a toddler, we were told by medical professionals that our child, who had developmental delays, would benefit from a gym program. Being long-time residents of Rancho Bernardo, of course, we came to Gyminny Kids. Sam started with Mommy-and-Me classes with Mr. Scott.
All through his young years, Sam came every week, sometimes twice a week, to do his "workout", develop his skills, and have fun. He even did the sports classes with Mr. Rob. He was fortunate enough to have Mr. Scott as his coach for most of those years. The classes have helped him overcome some of his early developmental challenges, build friendships, increase his self-esteem, and establish a bond with adult coaches who served more as mentors.
There is no doubt that without Gyminny Kids, Sam would not have progressed as far or as fast as he did.
Several years ago, he was asked to join the Demo team. When Mr. Scott asked him, he said, "I am so afraid of performing in front of people that I think I should do this to help overcome it." Without the amazing staff at the gym, he never would have had the guts to step up for himself and do this.
Today, he is a proud member of NCG's boys' competitive team. He is a gym rat for sure! He is in the gym 7 days a week and would be there more if they would let him. Being on the team has given him newfound confidence and allows him to really honor his lifelong passion for gymnastics.
We are beyond grateful to Liz, Rob, Daniel, Mr. Scott, and all the amazing staff. We are honored to be a part of the Gyminny Kid & NCG family. Wishing you all many more years of success!
The Moehlig Family
The Etheridge Family
Happy 30th Anniversary, Gyminny Kids!
The Etheridge family has been a part of Gyminny Kids/NCG for almost 14 years! Our daughter, Gabby, started when she was 5 and continued until middle school. Our boys, Ethan and Ben, are still a part of the gym. They both started at 2 years old.
Ethan is now 17 and can't even imagine not being at the gym 6 days a week! It wasn't all that easy, though, to get him to go in the early stages of his gymnastics career. For the first three weeks, he cried and was so afraid to go out into the red room. His coach, Jenny, was so patient with him.
After those 3 weeks, though, Ethan was loving gymnastics. He was on the Demo team for several years, then was invited onto the boys' team. Fast forward to today, Ethan is starting his 6th season with the boys team as a Level 10.
Recently, he told me that he was so thankful that I kept him in gymnastics all these years. He said he learned why he had to fail to succeed, that he knew what commitment was, what a team player is, and most importantly, what hard work will get you! All of these things have given him direction for what he wants to do after high school.
One of our favorite memories about our other son, Ben, who is 13, is when he was in Mr. Daniel's class. Mr. Daniel would tell him to run down the yellow tumble track as fast as he could. Ben would sweep his arms back and run down, yelling that he was Sonic! At the time, he was obsessed with the Sonic the Hedgehog games.
Other notable memories were all the red room recitals he participated in. Ben, like his older brother, was on the Demo team and was also invited to the boys' team. In his 6th season with the team, he is now a Level 8. He has aspirations to compete on a college men's gymnastics team, preferably at Stanford, and one day make it to the Olympics!
Gyminny Kids/NCG has been an essential part of our lives. Each of our kids has learned the value of hard work and commitment thanks to all the coaches that they've had. Each of those coaches made such a positive impact on their lives. The gym has provided them with years of "so much fun" when they were little, and now has transitioned the boys into young men and leaders at the gym.
Thank you, Gyminny Kids/NCG!
The Etheridge Family
Scott, Cindy, Gabby, Ethan, and Ben
Jennifer Manzke
Dear North County Gymnastics & The Gyminny Kids,
Congratulations on your 30th Anniversary, and thank you, thank you, thank you!! We have been members for 7 years and have nothing but fond memories. Back when we joined, Adam was 6, Ellie was 4, and Audrey was 2! I was so happy you had classes available for all 3 kids at the same time.
I loved the floor with Audrey and Coach Karen, and could watch Ellie work with Coach Kay and Adam with Coach Daniel. Saturdays quickly became the most fun day of the week. It was a thrill every time they achieved a new skill — the smile on their faces was priceless. And to watch them learn and grow and move from level to level was and still is wonderful.
Demo Team was a blast, and we're so glad the girls got to be a part of it. Learning routines, being part of a team, and performing in front of crowds were fantastic ways for them to spend their time, and they became better gymnasts and people for it. Coach Scott is a fantastic coach, and we will always be thankful for his light-heartedness, kindness, and excellent sense of humor. And the girls truly benefited from the extra time he spent on their private lessons.
And I cannot say enough about how grateful we are to your program and its positivity. It's even more noticeable to me now that we attend competitive girl meets. I often see a big difference in coaching styles between our coaches and those of other teams. Our coaches seem to have nothing but kind, supportive words of direction, while other coaches negatively criticize and try to perfect their students right before being judged. I feel our coaches' style is so much better for promoting confidence and self-worth in our children. Thank you!
Thank you for everything you have given Ellie, Audrey, Adam, and us as a family.
With much appreciation and gratitude,
Jennifer Manzke and Family
Five-star rated by over a thousand families on Google, Yelp & Facebook
Serving San Diego families since 1987
Recreational & competitive programs for boys and girls
Multiple San Diego locations
Why Families Stay With Gyminny Kids
Kids of all ages can attend at the same time
Long-tenured career coaches
Positive, confidence-building coaching style
Recreational & competitive pathways
Focus on character, not just skills
