We make no apologies for returning to our favourite sport - the one which  really  develops the body in terms of strength, flexibility and, of course aesthetics. Not to mention the dedication needed to acquire the skills we enjoy watching. Recommended to all, though obviously easier when you're young!  

As gymnastics/acrobatics coaches, we always say that the gymnasts can never spend enough time on their hands (i.e. supporting their weight on their hands). They need a good handstand for every piece of apparatus, actually. Today we can see some results - mostly excellent, some perhaps not (but making the effort). Including acrobatic groups pitching and catching, working together. Definitely an exhibition of physical fitness, of course. This post is quite heavy on videos, but in many cases it is the action which is important. Bear with us!   This guy goes for endurance... ...by the way, when we were training we had to do 8 minutes, but against a wall for occasional support   ...an unusual location, but you can't stop those circus performers even when they have free time!   ... and that last one is a good effort, but a typical 'banana back' caused by poor shoulder flexibility He's balancing OK though.  Some "easy steps" now, and then some games: Start young...  ...

  Wish, by all means! But then do something about it!! Young Donovan has the right answer... ...yes, Donovan, you're absolutely right. And not just kids - although we do admire the young generation today, who seem much more committed to fitness than all those grumpy complaints about smartphone time seem to suggest.  Donovan has more to show us:    An important message here is that fitness isn't just about building big muscles. To be of any use in sport, and maintain health, you need to train  movement  as well as strength work. What else could we suggest that combines these modes? Ninja training? Climbing? And lets not forget our  flexibility :  Dance is good, too: That's Ethan, from Australia, competing in UK. Combine flexibility and strength with this young Russian lad?  ...or this other Russian lad... Even chopping wood is good training:  ...as are most outdoor activities: Regular committed training allows you to achieve hard stuff (a...