The best 11 Gymnastics books

How do we create content on this page?
1
Gymnastics Books: Finding My Shine by Nastia Liukin

Finding My Shine

Nastia Liukin

What's Finding My Shine about?

Finding My Shine is an inspiring memoir by Nastia Liukin, the Olympic gymnast. In this book, Liukin shares her journey from a young girl with big dreams to becoming an Olympic champion. She opens up about the challenges she faced, the sacrifices she made, and the lessons she learned along the way. Through her story, she encourages readers to find their own inner strength and pursue their passions.

Who should read Finding My Shine?

  • Individuals seeking motivation and inspiration to overcome challenges

  • Aspiring athletes looking for insights into the world of gymnastics and elite sports

  • People interested in personal growth and resilience


2
Gymnastics Books: I Want to Be a Gymnast by Kate Simkins

What's I Want to Be a Gymnast about?

I Want to Be a Gymnast by Kate Simkins is an inspiring book that follows a young girl named Emma who dreams of becoming a gymnast. Through beautiful illustrations and engaging storytelling, the book takes us on Emma's journey as she works hard, overcomes challenges, and ultimately achieves her dream. It's a wonderful story that teaches children about determination, perseverance, and the power of believing in oneself.

Who should read I Want to Be a Gymnast?

  • Children who dream of becoming gymnasts

  • Parents and caregivers looking to support and encourage their child's interest in gymnastics

  • Coaches and instructors seeking to inspire and motivate young gymnasts


What's Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy about?

Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy by Bret Contreras is a comprehensive guide to bodyweight exercises that target every major muscle group. With detailed anatomical illustrations and clear instructions, this book provides valuable insights into how different exercises work and how to maximize their effectiveness. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, this book offers a wealth of knowledge to help you achieve your strength training goals.

Who should read Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy?

  • Individuals who prefer bodyweight exercises over traditional gym workouts

  • People looking to improve their strength, flexibility, and overall fitness without using equipment

  • Those who want to understand the anatomy behind each exercise and how it targets specific muscles


4
Gymnastics Books: Gold Medal Summer by Donna Freitas

Gold Medal Summer

Donna Freitas

What's Gold Medal Summer about?

Gold Medal Summer by Donna Freitas is a captivating young adult novel that follows the story of Joey, a passionate gymnast who dreams of winning a gold medal. Set against the backdrop of the Olympics, the book takes readers on a journey of determination, friendship, and the pursuit of one's dreams. With its engaging plot and relatable characters, it is a must-read for anyone who loves sports and coming-of-age stories.

Who should read Gold Medal Summer?

  • Young readers who are interested in gymnastics and sports

  • Those who enjoy stories about friendship, determination, and overcoming challenges

  • Parents and educators looking for a book that promotes positive values and a strong work ethic


What's Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy about?

Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy is a delightful children's book written by Daisy Meadows. It follows the story of best friends Kirsty and Rachel as they help Gemma retrieve her magical ribbon, hoop, and headband, which have been stolen by Jack Frost and his goblins. With determination and teamwork, they embark on an enchanting adventure to save the Fairyland Olympics and restore balance to the world of gymnastics.

Who should read Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy?

  • Children who enjoy reading about fairies and magical adventures

  • Young gymnastics enthusiasts who want to learn more about the sport

  • Parents and educators looking for engaging and age-appropriate books for early readers


6
Gymnastics Books: Landing on My Feet by Kerri Strug

Landing on My Feet

Kerri Strug

What's Landing on My Feet about?

Landing on My Feet is a memoir by Kerri Strug, the Olympic gymnast who famously stuck her final vault landing on an injured ankle to secure the gold medal for the U.S. women's gymnastics team in the 1996 Olympics. The book details her journey in the sport, the challenges she faced, and the determination that ultimately led her to triumph.

Who should read Landing on My Feet?

  • Aspiring gymnasts looking for inspiration and insights from a successful Olympian

  • Parents and coaches of young athletes seeking valuable lessons on dedication and perseverance

  • Readers interested in personal stories of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness


7

What's The Science Behind Gymnastics about?

The Science Behind Gymnastics by L. E. Carmichael explores the physics, biomechanics, and physiology behind the incredible feats performed by gymnasts. From understanding the forces at play during a backflip to the training methods that optimize strength and flexibility, this book delves into the scientific principles that make gymnastics possible.

Who should read The Science Behind Gymnastics?

  • Individuals interested in the intersection of science and sports

  • Gymnastics enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of the sport

  • Coaches and athletes seeking to improve performance through scientific principles


8
Gymnastics Books: Chalked Up by Jennifer Sey

Chalked Up

Jennifer Sey

What's Chalked Up about?

Chalked Up is a gripping memoir by Jennifer Sey that takes you inside the world of elite gymnastics. With raw honesty, Sey shares her journey from a young, passionate gymnast to a national champion, exposing the dark side of the sport along the way. It's a compelling and eye-opening read that sheds light on the pressures and sacrifices faced by athletes in pursuit of their dreams.

Who should read Chalked Up?

  • Individuals who are interested in the world of competitive gymnastics

  • Parents of young athletes who want to understand the potential challenges and pressures of elite sports

  • Former gymnasts or athletes who can relate to the personal struggles and sacrifices involved in pursuing a dream


What's Kim Zmeskal: Determination to Win about?

Kim Zmeskal: Determination to Win by Krista Quiner tells the inspiring story of Olympic gymnast Kim Zmeskal. From her early days in the sport to her historic achievements at the World Championships and Olympics, this book highlights Zmeskal's unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at her training, her triumphs, and the challenges she overcame to become a true champion.

Who should read Kim Zmeskal: Determination to Win?

  • Individuals who are fans of gymnastics and want to learn more about the sport

  • Gymnasts looking for inspiration and motivation to achieve their own goals

  • People interested in stories of perseverance and overcoming challenges


10
Gymnastics Books: HomeMade Muscle by Anthony Arvanitakis

HomeMade Muscle

Anthony Arvanitakis

What's HomeMade Muscle about?

HomeMade Muscle by Anthony Arvanitakis offers a unique approach to strength training and building muscle. Focusing on bodyweight exercises and minimal equipment, this book provides a comprehensive guide to creating an effective workout routine at home. With detailed instructions and workout plans, it empowers readers to achieve their fitness goals without the need for a gym membership or expensive equipment.

Who should read HomeMade Muscle?

  • Individuals who want to build strength and muscle using bodyweight exercises

  • People who prefer working out at home or without a gym membership

  • Those who are looking for a simple and effective fitness program


11

What's Yoga Guide for Beginners about?

Yoga Guide for Beginners by Melody White is an essential book for anyone looking to start their yoga journey. With clear instructions and helpful illustrations, this book provides a step-by-step guide to various yoga poses and sequences. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to deepen your practice, this book offers valuable insights and tips to help you achieve physical and mental well-being through yoga.

Who should read Yoga Guide for Beginners?

  • Individuals who are new to yoga and want to learn the basics

  • People who want to improve their flexibility, strength, and overall well-being

  • Readers who are looking for a comprehensive guide to yoga poses and sequences


Related Topics

Gymnastics Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Gymnastics book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Finding My Shine as the ultimate read on Gymnastics.

What are the Top 10 Gymnastics books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Finding My Shine by Nastia Liukin
  • I Want to Be a Gymnast by Kate Simkins
  • Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy by Bret Contreras
  • Gold Medal Summer by Donna Freitas
  • Gemma the Gymnastics Fairy by Daisy Meadows
  • Landing on My Feet by Kerri Strug
  • The Science Behind Gymnastics by L. E. Carmichael
  • Chalked Up by Jennifer Sey
  • Kim Zmeskal: Determination to Win by Krista Quiner
  • HomeMade Muscle by Anthony Arvanitakis

Who are the top Gymnastics book authors?

When it comes to Gymnastics, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Nastia Liukin
  • Kate Simkins
  • Bret Contreras
  • Donna Freitas
  • Daisy Meadows