When school’s out and the sun is shining, it’s the perfect time to take gymnastics training outside! Summer offers a fun, flexible environment where young gymnasts can stay active, refine their skills, and enjoy the fresh air. At We Sell Mats, our gymnastics skill shape trainers are built for versatility and can be used indoors and out, making them ideal companions for sunny day workouts. Here are our top tips for safe, creative, and effective gymnastics practice during the summer—plus some fun ways to use our gear outdoors!
1. Set Up a Backyard Practice Zone
Choose a flat, shaded area in your yard or patio and lay down protective flooring or foam tiles. This designated space gives your gymnast the freedom to train with focus while minimizing the risk of injury. Our folding mats and foam flooring tiles are easy to transport and perfect for outdoor use. Pro tip: Use a large beach umbrella or canopy to create a shady spot for rest and recovery between drills.
2. Balance Beam Basics Under the Sun
Practicing on a balance beam outside adds a fresh challenge—sunlight, breeze, and natural distractions can help gymnasts improve their focus and adaptability. Our foam balance beams provide a safe, soft platform for perfecting walks, turns, and leaps. Try this outdoor balance challenge. Set up the balance beam in the grass and create a timed obstacle course. Mix in creative elements like hopping over pool noodles or twirling a ribbon at the end of the beam to encourage balance and coordination with a fun twist.
3. Tumble into Summer with Incline Mats
Our incline mats are the ideal tool for practicing forward rolls, back walkovers, and back handspring drills outdoors. The firm foam is supportive for skill development and its folding design makes for easy backyard setup. If your yard has a slight slope, you can place the incline mat to enhance momentum for certain drills. Just be sure the surface underneath is level enough to avoid slipping.
4. Get Moving with Tumbling Octagons
Our tumbling octagons are a favorite among gymnasts for developing body awareness and strength, especially when learning back handsprings and walkovers. These trainers are sturdy, weather-friendly for short outdoor sessions, and designed to keep kids moving safely. Incorporate the tumbling octagon into a relay game or set up stations where kids can perform different skills on each shape. Add some music and turn your backyard into a mini summer gymnastics camp!
5. Keep it Cool and Safe
Even during the most exciting practice sessions, safety comes first. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks often. You may want to avoid peak heat hours, usually between 12–3 PM. Don’t practice alone! Always supervise young gymnasts during practice. Wipe down mats after outdoor use and store them indoors when not in use to prolong their life.
Take Your Training Outside with We Sell Mats
At We Sell Mats, we’re proud to offer high-quality, portable gymnastics gear that makes outdoor summer training both fun and safe. Whether it’s tumbling on an incline mat, balancing under blue skies on a foam beam, or rolling with a tumbling octagon, summer is the perfect time to level up your skills and create unforgettable memories. Check out our full collection of gymnastics skill trainers and turn your summer into a season of strength, growth, and movement!