Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us
What is Freestyle Gymnastics?
Freestyle Gymnastics is an umbrella term for a variety of acrobatic-based activities including Free Running, Parkour, Tricking, B-Boys and Breakdancing. If you are interested in any of these then Freestyle Gymnastics enables you to learn the skills in a controlled environment with a qualified coach
Is it dangerous?
Gymnastics is an inherently dangerous sport. At alt-path we manage this risk in several ways – there are some basic House Rules that are in place for everyone’s safety. The coaches are not killjoys though and aim to strike a balance between testing your limits and maintaining a safe environment.
How long do your workshops last?
We can run workshops lasting 1 hour to a whole day, or a "drop in" option for large events where visitors can try a specific skill - many of these can be learned within 5 minutes!
How old do participants need to be?
We recommend a minimum age of 10 years to be able to get the most out of the workshops, however we are happy to take younger participants who have gymnastic experience. There is no upper age limit.
What gymnastics experience is needed?
No previous formal training is needed, but participants should be reasonably fit and in good health. It is useful if participants can perform a reasonable handstand, a forward roll/breakfall and some basic vaults. Freestyle Gymnastics has a fast learning curve and the pace of the session is tailored to the needs of the group. Please inform coaches of any previous injury or disability which may affect participation.
What insurance do you have?
We have £10m Public Liability Insurance with British Gymnastics and Sports Coach UK. All lead instructors are British Gymnastics members. We may on occasion bring new instructors which assist the coaches but they are only permitted to work under close supervision.
Are you CRB Checked?
All members of staff have Enhanced CRB clearance. All supervising coaches are Child Protection trained.
Can you do a risk assessment?
Yes, we prefer to use a pro forma one supplied by the client as different settings have different requirements.
What is the structure of a typical class?
It depends on the length of the workshop but all classes include a warm up, a cool down, some floor-based movements and vaulting/trampette work. If time allows we often let participants take the lead in setting up apparatus and coming up with ideas while coaches advise on technique and safety
Do the classes take place indoors?
We use gymnastic equipment to simulate a Free Running environment as it is more forgiving to learners than the real thing. We can run workshops outdoors in good weather but we do not use “street furniture” and we do not advocate this.
What sort of space do I need?
We require a space at least the size of a badminton court for most workshops but do contact us if your space is smaller than this as we may be able to come up with a suitable format.
