Ninja Central is for Kids of All Ages and Abilities

From the moment they step onto a ninja training course, kids snap into activation mode – using their athletic skills to jump, climb, and balance their way through physical challenges and activating their minds to out-maneuver the puzzle of obstacles that stand in their way of victory.

That combination is a powerful one and equips kids with the confidence, persistence, self-esteem, and creative thinking skills they need throughout their lives. And now, with the grand opening of Ninja Central, a top-tier ninja training facility in Maryland Heights, even more young athletes will get the chance to reach their full potential.

For years, Team Central Gymnastics Academy, the nonprofit sister organization of Olympia Gymnastics, has provided accessible ninja training to children of all abilities. Athletes immediately took to the sport’s mash-up of gymnastics, parkour, and strength conditioning, and as its popularity skyrocketed, Team Central could no longer keep up with the demand for classes. By expanding its facility and adding more state-of-the-art challenges, the new Ninja Central is a must-visit destination for young adventure-seekers.

“Ninja Central was created to give kids a place where movement builds confidence and every challenge feels like an opportunity to grow,” said Ray Overmann, Founder and CEO of Team Central. “We wanted a space that feels exciting and welcoming, while staying true to the values that have guided Team Central for years.”

The benefits of ninja training for athletes of all abilities

Offering everything from beginner classes for preschoolers to advanced training and competitive team options for middle and high school students, Ninja Central is focused on helping all kids boost their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Ninja Central, which is led by ninja director Evan Rose and gym manager Ashley Salazar, offers a full range of specialized equipment and obstacle courses that grow more difficult as kids progress through their training. From warped walls and pegboards that test their endurance and agility to swinging beams and hanging rings that help them develop their balance and coordination, athletes are constantly challenged while having fun. Most important, the encouragement of their coaches and fellow athletes creates a positive, supportive community where everyone thrives.

“The skills kids build in ninja training not only help them excel on the obstacle course, but transfer to other sports as well,” said Ashley Salazar, Gym Manager of Team Central & Ninja Central. “When you’re four or five, you’re working on balance, coordination, and cross-body movements. As you get older, you’re focusing on strength and agility, as well as skill challenges. Kids don’t just grow stronger physically – they learn how to deal with both success and struggles along the way.”

At Ninja Central, training sessions are ongoing, so kids can jump in and out as their schedules allow. While some athletes participate year-round, others train at Ninja Central between school sports seasons to stay active in their downtime and keep their skills sharp. Ninja training is also an ideal option for kids who may not see themselves as athletes or tend to shy away from the pressure and intensity of traditional sports but still want the camaraderie and connection of a team.

According to Trish Dubos, Director of Marketing and IT, one athlete’s story that particularly sticks with her is that of a child on the autism spectrum who had never participated in sports before. Through his ninja training, he improved his coordination, learned how to modulate his behavior, and built new friendships that helped him grow into a confident 12-year-old with strong self-regulatory skills.

Ensuring every child has the chance to be a ninja

What makes the new Ninja Central truly stand out in the St. Louis region is that, as a nonprofit, Team Central provides financial scholarships to families in need and assists higher-level athletes with the expenses of competing on a regional and national scale. Multi-sibling discounts are also available for families who want to enroll more than one child.

In addition to ninja training, the facility also offers Flipz!, its tumbling and trampoline program for kids in first grade and beyond who want to learn gymnastics or cross-train for ninja and other sports.

For more information on Ninja Central or to check out their full line-up of classes, visit www.teamcentral.org/ninja.