If your child is passionate about gymnastics, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Does gymnastics stunt growth?”
As a parent in Springfield, MO, that’s a valid concern—and at 417 Performance Chiropractic & Sports Rehab, we’re here to give you real answers, backed by science and supported by years of experience working with young athletes across Southwest Missouri.
The Bottom Line: Gymnastics Doesn't Permanently Hinder Growth
While it’s true that some gymnasts may experience temporary slowdowns in growth during intense training years, research shows that most still reach their full adult height in the long run.
Study: Long-term growth of gymnasts – PubMed
At our Springfield-based sports rehab clinic, we’ve seen first-hand how athletes can thrive with the right balance of training, recovery, and nutrition.
Why Do Gymnasts Sometimes Grow Slower?
There are a few science-backed reasons why gymnasts may grow at a slightly slower pace during peak training.
1. Delayed Bone Age
Gymnasts often have a “delayed bone age”—meaning their bones look younger than their actual age. This is usually tied to:
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High training hours (often over 25/week)
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Low body fat from intense physical activity
Study: Growth and bone development in gymnasts – PubMed
2. Puberty Happens Later
Especially in young female gymnasts, lower fat levels and high-intensity training can delay puberty. It’s common for them to start menstruating later than peers.
Study: Delayed puberty in gymnasts – PubMed
3. Lower Growth Velocity (Temporarily)
Gymnasts training 18+ hours/week may grow more slowly—about 2.2 inches per year compared to 3.15 inches per year in swimmers. But this doesn’t mean they won’t catch up.
Study: Growth velocity in athletes – PubMed
Catch-Up Growth Happens—and It’s Encouraging
Most athletes regain normal growth patterns once training intensity decreases or they retire. In fact, 85% of former gymnasts reach their expected adult height.
Study: Adult height in female gymnasts – PubMed
Benefits of Gymnastics for Springfield Kids
Beyond growth, gymnastics offers lifelong health perks:
Stronger Bones
Gymnasts often develop higher bone density, even during periods of lower food intake—a key defense against osteoporosis later in life.
Study: Bone density in gymnasts – PubMed
Injury-Resistant Muscles
The sport promotes balanced strength, joint stability, and coordination—crucial for injury prevention, whether your child continues gymnastics or transitions to another sport.
How Springfield Parents Can Support Healthy Growth in Young Gymnasts
1. Manage Training Hours
If your gymnast is under 12, aim for fewer than 20 hours/week. Recreational gymnastics (under 10 hrs/week)? No major growth risks.
2. Prioritize Nutrition
Kids in training need fuel to grow—especially in active cities like Springfield, where many kids play multiple sports:
For a 70-pound gymnast, aim for:
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Protein: About 50–70 grams/day
(That’s roughly 0.7–1 gram per pound of body weight) -
Carbs: Around 160–250 grams/day
(2.5–3.5 grams per pound of body weight) -
Fats: Minimum of 40–50 grams/day
(About 0.6–0.7 grams per pound of body weight)
Tip: These are general estimates—every kid is different! Work with a pediatric nutritionist or athletic care specialist for personalized guidance.
3. Track Growth Over Time
Regular checkups with a pediatrician (including bone age scans if needed) can help you stay on top of your child’s development.
How 417 Performance in Springfield, MO Helps Gymnasts Thrive
At 417 Performance Chiropractic & Sports Rehab, we work with gymnasts from all over Springfield and Greene County to support healthy growth, recovery, and athletic performance.
Chiropractic Adjustments for Active Kids
Our gentle, sport-specific chiropractic care helps reduce tension and correct posture issues caused by repetitive gymnastics movements.
Corrective Exercise for Injury Prevention
We create custom strength and mobility programs for young athletes right here in Springfield—to help them stay strong, flexible, and pain-free.
Active Release Technique (ART)
This hands-on soft tissue therapy helps with tight muscles and boosts flexibility—perfect for gymnasts who need full range of motion.
Advanced Recovery Tools
We use dry needling and shockwave therapy at our clinic in Springfield to help speed up recovery and reduce soreness in training athletes.
Final Thoughts for Springfield Families
Gymnastics does not stunt growth—but high-level training can cause short-term changes. With smart oversight, proper nutrition, and expert support right here in Springfield, MO, your gymnast can grow strong and perform at their best.
Support Your Springfield Gymnast with Confidence
Looking for local experts to help your child stay injury-free and grow strong?
We’re here for you—right here in Springfield.
Book a Free Discovery Call with 417 Performance
Let’s create a plan to support your young athlete’s health, development, and success in gymnastics.
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