Podcasts and gymnastics-what do they have in common?? Whether you are a new gym mom looking to learn about artistic gymnastics or you are a veteran parent, coach, or accomplished athlete, discovering podcasts about gymnastics is a MUST! Obtaining free, incredibly valuable information is just a click away. Did you hear that- FREE (in the same sentence as gymnastics-how often does that happen)?
Check out the comprehensive list of gymnastics themed podcasts below and click on the shows that appeal most to you. If you are interested in sports mental performance training advice via podcasts, we have the perfect list for you too (also FREE).
Available entertaining podcasts about gymnastics vary widely in scope and targeted audience. Happy listening, learning, and gaining inspiration!
1. GymCastic
Famously hosted by gymnastics fans and experts Jessica O’Beirne and Spencer from The Balance Beam Situation, this weekly show comprises over 400 entertaining episodes as of the beginning of 2020. Episodes range from 1-2 hours in duration and cover a huge spectrum of gymnastics-related topics. Younger gymnasts will love the episodes featuring interviews with world renowned gymnasts, such as a recent episode with Brenna Dowell. Parents and coaches truly can benefit from the hosts’ in-depth, honest discussion of the ongoing issues with USAG in recent years- it’s the best place to get the real scoop on what is happening.. Often, episodes focus on amazing reviews of meets, including everything from men’s gymnastics Winter Cup to NCAA meets and World Championships. Honestly, the podcast offers something for anyone with an interest or passion for gymnastics, period.
2. The Shift Show
Produced by movement specialist Dave Tilley, the tag line of this podcast describes it well: “Giving you tools to change athlete’s lives”. Typically, episodes feature an hour-long, engaging interview with a top-notch expert in a gymnastics-related topic. Parents and coaches can glean relevant, up-to-date information on essentials in strength and conditioning for gymnastics, nutrition advice, the mental aspects of the sport, and more. The need for an overall culture shift in gymnastics training is discussed in a positive, game-changing manner. Gym parents and coaches-this one is another must listen and must subscribe show.
3. I Have Cool Friends
Hosted by Olympian Samantha Peszek, this podcast is a fantastic one to binge-listen to with your gymnasts en route to a meet, or just listen one by one each week on the way to practice. Season one included eye-opening, fun interviews with Olympians and experts in gymnastics. Nutrition, college recruiting, mental training, and more were covered in a relevant, educational and entertaining way. Most recently, season two comprised of in-depth coverage of the 2019 NCAA season, again including interviews with top athletes like Maggie Nichols and Trinity Thomas (and many more!). Starting in 2020, season three highlights motivational interviews from non-gymnast champions. Athletes of all ages, parents, and coaches will look forward to listening to this show.
4. Tumbling Along With Betsy
Developed by nutrition and fitness expert Betsy McNally Laouar, this podcast is aimed at educating gymnasts, parents, and coaches. Interviews with passionate, renowned experts will help gymnasts and their support systems understand the importance of healthy fueling, proper strength, and overall balance within the challenging sport of gymnastics. Coaches, parents, and athletes should subscribe to this show for continued positive inspiration and education related to gymnastics.
5. Flippin Awesome Coaching for Athletes
Hosted by a former national team member and a collegiate athlete, this show includes short episodes on the often overlooked, but important mental side of training. Gymnasts will enjoy learning about motivation, focus, emotion, and the overall ability to build confidence. Perfect for the commute to practice, the concise mental tools and tips provided will benefit a gymnast at any level.
6. Gymnast Mindset
Created just for gymnasts, this show teaches techniques to overcome mental blocks, redefining success, overthinking, and boost overall confidence. Concrete action steps detailed throughout by the host are note-worthy and easy to understand for any age gymnast.
7. Gymnastics Growth Show
Created by Nick Ruddock, this show is another gem chock full of educational interviews with experts in multifaceted roles related to gymnastics. Coaches (and parents) can gain valuable insight and understanding of ideal strategies to train athletes for maximal performance in a positive manner. Episodes are usually less than an hour in duration and will surely generate thought-provoking questions from listeners.
8. The Gymnast Care
Developed by Dr. Josh Eldridge, this podcast is primarily dedicated to keeping gymnasts healthy. Parents will benefit from the nutrition advice provided (and it would be a great idea for a gymnast of any age to listen along). Overtraining, recovery, and management of injuries are all covered in an engaging style.
9. The Gymnastics Life
Marketed as a podcast for “Everything Gymnastics”, this show features short episodes directed at coaches. Just a few of the topics highlighted include how to get the most out of practice, spotting, overall gym culture, and routine numbers..
10. The Routine Gymnastics Conversation
This show features lively discussion between a former collegiate athlete and her mom. Most episodes focus on NCAA gymnastics, including chats with top gymnasts and coaches. Gymnastics fans and prospective student athletes will love listening to the inside scoop and details in this in-depth review of college gymnastics.
11. Believed
Created by NPR, this show includes 9 episodes detailing how Larry Nassar was able get away with abuse in the gymnastics world. Because some of the content is highly sensitive, parents will want to listen before deciding about sharing with their children.
BONUS….
Perform Happy With Rebecca Smith
Catch over 100 episodes of free mental training advice for athletes, parents, and coaches via this insightful podcast. Episodes provide tactical advice for parents about fears, motivation, progression, and general life skills for gymnasts. Ever feel like you said the complete WRONG thing on the way home from the gym? This show is for you and is a life changer!
Good Luck!
Good luck to all the gymnasts and coaches this season! Make listening to podcasts about gymnastics a part of becoming 1% better every day! If you want more podcasts, we have a list for kids and a list for teens– keep learning on the go.