When parents see their child flipping, tumbling, and balancing on their hands at home, a common question arises: Should they be doing acro or gymnastics? While these two disciplines share similarities, they are actually quite different in terms of technique, training, and overall purpose.
At Ignition Performance Academy, we offer acro as part of our dance training, and we often get asked, “How is this different from gymnastics?” In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between acro and gymnastics and help you determine which one is the right fit for your child.
What is Acro?
Acro, short for acrobatic dance, is a unique blend of dance and acrobatics. It incorporates flexibility, balance, strength, and controlled tumbling, but it is specifically designed to be performed alongside dance. You’ll often see acro elements woven into jazz, lyrical, and contemporary dance routines.
At kids dance performance teams, like those at Ignition PA, acro skills are used to enhance choreography rather than being performed in isolation. This means that acro tricks are seamlessly integrated into routines with fluid transitions and artistic expression.
Acro dancers focus on:
✔ Smooth transitions between tricks and dance moves
✔ Strength and flexibility to support controlled movements
✔ Performance quality – tricks must look effortless and artistic
What is Gymnastics?
Gymnastics, on the other hand, is a competitive sport that involves performing acrobatic skills on specific apparatus such as the vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor. Gymnasts train extensively in powerful tumbling passes, aerial manoeuvres, and precise landings to compete in structured routines.
Unlike acro, gymnastics routines:
✔ Are performed on specialised equipment (vault, bars, beam, floor)
✔ Require precise landings after tumbling passes
✔ Focus on scoring points based on execution and difficulty
While acro and gymnastics both teach balance, coordination, and strength, the biggest difference lies in their intent and presentation.
For children who love performing and artistic movement, kids dance classes that offer acro might be the perfect fit!
Why Choose Acro Over Gymnastics?
If your child loves to dance but also enjoys tumbling and tricks, acro is the perfect way to combine both passions. Acro provides the opportunity to:
✨ Enhance dance performances – Adding flips, balances, and flexibility tricks can elevate any jazz, contemporary, or lyrical routine.
✨ Improve strength and coordination – Acro training builds a strong, flexible body that supports both dance and everyday movement.
✨ Develop artistic expression – Unlike gymnastics, where strict execution is required, acro allows dancers to add emotion and individuality to their movements.
✨ Be a part of a team – At Ignition PA, our students train together in kids dance performance teams, building friendships and confidence through dance and acrobatics.
Can My Child Do Both?
Absolutely! Many students who start in gymnastics eventually transition to acro, especially if they develop a love for performing on stage rather than competing in a judged environment.
Some dancers also take gymnastics classes to improve their tumbling skills while focusing on acro for performance-based training.
If you’re looking for children’s ballet academy but want a program that also includes acro training, Ignition PA offers a well-rounded curriculum that integrates dance with acrobatic elements.
Which One is Right for Your Child?
✅ If your child loves artistic movement and dance – Acro is the way to go!
✅ If your child wants to compete in structured gymnastics events – Gymnastics might be a better fit.
✅ If your child enjoys both dance and tumbling, they can train in both disciplines for a well-rounded experience.
At Ignition PA, we love helping dancers find their strengths and passions. Whether your child is just starting out or already has some experience, our acro program is designed to build confidence, flexibility, and performance skills in a supportive and fun environment.
Looking for kids dance classes that incorporate acro? Come join us at Ignition Performance Academy and discover the exciting world of Acrobatic Dance!
Comments