The difference: Equipment / Skill Level / Coaches' Experience....... [quote]Kayla taught herself the full twist at home on the trampoline, then brought the element into the gym and incorporated it into her routine for floor. The full twist is not normally attempted without a springboard floor, which is why the skill is new to the Bradford Y. However, that factor didn't impede Kayla. "Kayla has springs in her toes," noted Michelle Taylor, Kayla's mom and an assistant coach for the Flames. Pam Payne, Kelsey's mother, also assists with coaching the Bradford Y gymnasts. Both girls practice at home when they can, although it has become more difficult to do so as they practice more advanced skills. The skills are also difficult to perform in the Y gym, due to limited equipment. However, the girls persevere and put in the extra effort needed to learn the new elements without the benefit of advanced equipment. [/quote] YMCA's are great for bringing sports to the community. But.... ...The benefit of advanced equipment is also for safety, not merely convenience...... Article: "Taylor and Payne add new dimension to Flames gymnastics program" - http://www.bradfordera.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17881124&BRD=52&PAG=461&dept_id=569781&rfi=6

There are also club gymnastics gyms that do not have the same updated high quality equipment, not just the ymca clubs. That's one of the things to check for when you're deciding on a club, as well as the coaches and their experience level. Clubs that don't have the springy floor or a good set of bars or vault or beam or the boys equipment might also get a lower response for teams wanting to compete at their event b/c of the poor quality of the equipment. We do take that account when picking which competitions to go to. Pits are really good for trying out and learning new skills - and good coaches too of course! :D