Hundreds of young people and sports instructors in Thimphu took part in a lively gymnastics session today aimed at promoting health, fun and community participation. The event, led by a visiting Japanese expert, introduced a global concept – “Gymnastics for All,” which encourages people of all ages to stay active through simple and enjoyable exercises.
Laughter, stretches, and energetic jumps filled the Bhutan Amateur Athletics Ground this morning as young participants experienced gymnastics in a completely new way.
For many of them, this was their introduction to gymnastics, and the experience quickly turned into both fun and learning.
Among the participants was 10-year-old Nima Ghalley, a class four student of Changzamtog Middle Secondary School.
“I like sports, and I want to win trophies and make my family proud. The jumping part was very fun, and meeting my friends during the session made it even more enjoyable,” said Nima Ghalley, a participant.
Around 300 participants, including students and 15 School Sports Instructors from across the country, gathered for the one-hour session.
“It was very good for my health. When we did the exercises, my body warmed up and became more flexible. Programmes like this are important because they help keep our bodies healthy,” said Dinesh Gurung, Participant.
72-year-old Professor Araki Tatsuo from Japan led the program.
Unlike competitive gymnastics often seen at international sporting events, the Gymnastics for All programme focuses on simple movements, coordination exercises and group activities that promote health, flexibility and social interaction.
“Many people want to stay healthy and need exercise, but they often do not know which type of exercise is best for them. There are many options like Zumba or yoga, but gymnastics has a long history as a basic form of exercise. My programme, Gymnastics for All, is designed to help people find simple exercises that are good for their health,” said Araki Tatsuo, Professor Emeritus, Nippon Sport Science University, Japan.
“Gymnastics for All has no competition or trophies. It helps improve both mental and physical health. We plan to work with the International Gymnastics Federation to further develop the sport in Bhutan,” said Kinley Tenzin, Assistant Media Officer, Bhutan Olympic Committee.
The programme is also expected to create a ripple effect in schools across Bhutan, with a training on gymnastics underway for the School Sports Instructors.
“Students often get bored with the same routine of going to school from Monday to Friday. So, I am planning to organise gymnastics sessions on Saturdays from 5 to 8 AM. I will also sensitise the community and teachers on the sport and plan related activities during World Health Day,” said Jigme Namgyel, Instructor, Buli Central School, Zhemgang.
Professor Araki hopes to introduce similar activities in monastic institutions, enabling monks to benefit from regular physical exercise.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to establish a national gymnastics body under the Bhutan Olympic Committee. This would eventually pave the way for Bhutan to join the International Gymnastics Federation and the Asian Gymnastics Union.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
