Image: An initial eight clubs offer the programme

UK-based health and racquet club operator David Lloyd Leisure (DLL) has launched a new junior coaching programme designed to teach young people the core skills of gymnastics.

Gymnastics All Stars is supported by Total Gymnastics - founded by world champion Beth Tweddle - and will help children develop skills in strength, flexibility and co-ordination.

It is initially being offered to three- and four-year-olds at eight clubs across the UK and will be extended to five- to seven-year-olds at those locations from September.

DLL will roll out the programme to other clubs at a later date. Gymnastics All Stars is based on the Total Gymnastics Gym Stars initiative, which is built around a badge award scheme.

Sarah Hobbs, head of sport, health and fitness at DLL, said: "Every parent wants their child to learn the basic abilities that are essential to their early development and this programme is brilliant for teaching those core skills."

Tweddle added: "It is fantastic that David Lloyd Leisure have added gymnastics to their All Stars portfolio; at Total Gymnastics we believe that every child should have the opportunity to taste gymnastics, no matter what their ability."

Gymnastics All Stars adds to DLL's existing portfolio of All Stars-branded programmes in swimming and tennis.

Details: www.davidlloyd.co.uk

Image: Cherry-Merry/shutterstock.com