Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Gymnastics Classes in Upper Marlboro
MGA Gymnastics is a Christian family-owned business with over 60 years of service to communities in Maryland and Florida. Founded in 1964 as a small gymnastics and dance studio near Washington, D.C., we have grown into a trusted provider of gymnastics programs for children of all ages and skill levels. Our mission is to create a positive, uplifting environment where students grow and thrive, guided by our core values of faith, family, and community. With two locations in Upper Marlboro, MD, and Apopka, FL, we offer preschool classes, beginner to advanced gymnastics, tumbling, and ninja programs.Our experienced coaches prioritize child well-being, fostering confidence, teamwork, and resilience through safe, supportive instruction. We welcome students from all backgrounds and maintain a warm, inclusive atmosphere rooted in our founding principles. Our legacy of excellence continues through multigenerational family involvement and a commitment to adapting programs to meet evolving community needs.
Services
Preschool Gymnastics
Girls' Gymnastics
Boys' Gymnastics
Ninja Classes
Tumbling Programs
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1964 with multigenerational coaching experience
- Safe, supportive environment prioritizing child well-being
- Offers preschool through advanced competitive programs
- Christian values integrated with skill development
- Community-focused with 60+ years of local service
Services
Preschool Gymnastics
Parent-and-child classes for ages 2-3 introduce basic movement skills through games and gym equipment. Focus on balance, coordination, and social interaction in a fun, nurturing environment. Builds confidence while preparing children for structured learning.
Girls' Gymnastics
Progressive training from beginner to advanced levels with emphasis on skill development and confidence building. Coaches provide personalized instruction in a supportive team environment. Programs include recreational and competitive pathways.
Boys' Gymnastics
Skill-focused classes for boys of all ages and abilities. Develops strength, flexibility, and coordination through age-appropriate equipment. Encourages positive values while building foundational gymnastics techniques.
Ninja Classes
Obstacle course training combining gymnastics and fitness for boys and girls. Builds agility, strength, and perseverance through challenging activities like warped walls and hanging obstacles. Promotes problem-solving in a fun setting.
Tumbling Programs
Specialized instruction for beginning to advanced tumbling skills including back handsprings and aerials. Uses spring floors and specialized equipment to develop proper technique. Prepares students for cheerleading or competitive tumbling.
People
Brian Shrewsbury
Co-Owner
Third-generation gymnastics leader with 30+ years of coaching experience. Developed competitive programs and oversaw expansion to Florida. Focuses on maintaining family values while advancing technical training standards.
Barbara Shrewsbury
Co-Owner
Coaches girls' teams and manages daily operations. Brings seven children into the MGA Gymnastics family, emphasizing inclusive growth through gymnastics. Combines administrative leadership with hands-on coaching experience.
Kellen Tichenor
Director
Third-generation leader trained from childhood in coaching techniques. Oversees Florida operations and competitive team development. Focuses on community engagement and program innovation while maintaining family traditions.
Carolyn Shrewsbury
Founder
Acrobatic prodigy turned pioneer in children's gymnastics. Established first studio in 1964 after television performance career. Her early performances at venues like Steel Pier influenced MGA Gymnastics's focus on technical excellence and showmanship.
Jerry Shrewsbury
Founder
Co-founded MGA Gymnastics with Carolyn after meeting at University of Maryland. Built Royal T's Gymnastics into Maryland's longest-running facility. Instilled values of integrity and child-centered coaching that continue today.
Questions
What age can children start gymnastics classes?
Our preschool program accepts children as young as 2 years old with parent participation.
Do you offer competitive gymnastics teams?
Yes, we have competitive teams for boys and girls with advanced skill requirements.
Are make-up classes available?
Monthly members can schedule free make-up classes through our online system before 7:30 PM the day prior.
What locations do you serve?
We operate two facilities in Upper Marlboro, MD and Apopka, FL with similar program offerings.
Is prior gymnastics experience required?
No, our programs accommodate all skill levels from complete beginners to elite athletes.
What safety measures are in place?
Certified coaches use progressive skill training with spotting techniques and age-appropriate equipment.
Reviews (6)
Maria Delio
Jan 15, 2022
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism
Had my sons 3 year old bday here. The girls were so professional, welcoming, and attentive. The place was clean and kids had a blast!
Had my sons 3 year old bday here. The girls were so professional, welcoming, and attentive. The place was clean and kids had a blast!
Joshua D.
Oct 28, 2021
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The most absolutely bootleg gymnastics experience you could imagine - Bowie deserves better! Our daughter is currently in a class here. The instructors are very young - which would not be a problem if they had ANY plan for the classes at all. But, they don't. Mostly they wander around and spontaneously decide what to do next (bend over, jump on trampoline, etc). In between exercises the kids are just sitting around with nothing to do. There's no theory, no logic, no progression. As I'm typing this my 3 year old is for some reason doing squats against a wall . I mean, I promise you
Lisa Fairman
Dec 06, 2020
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We recently have started selling my apparel products to MGA. Great business to work with! I have heard great things about this gym and the classes they offer. It is wonderful to find gyms that truly mentor and create a sense of community.
Alena B.
Sep 01, 2020
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My son been attending the ninja class here for some months and really enjoys it. MGA was there with virtual classes during the hight of the pandemic and handled resuming in person classes while following strict social distancing, screening and cleaning protocols spectacularly. Thanks MGA
Kevin Lane
Aug 21, 2019
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My daughter absolutely loves it here. We recently moved and didnt know how the transition would be from one gym to the other, but could not be happier. She adores the coaches and has met so many friends. We would recommend to anyone.
Quiet S.
Feb 04, 2018
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My girls absolutely loved MGA (as we did as parents). The coaches were excellent and were very careful to prevent any injuries. They have an open door policy where parents are welcomed to stay and watch. The only reason we left was because they did not have a competitive gymnastics program. If they were to get one started again we would definitely go back!