3 Top Gymnastics Movies - and One Terrible Gymnastics Movie

Gymnasts and gymnastics lovers need not fret: gymnastics movies are everywhere. When gathering with some gymnastic buffs, having some topical, gymnastics-themed movies on hand for social occasions can amuse and impress visiting gymnasts and kids who are into gymnastics. Some old classic gymnastic movies may even bring back memories for older gymnasts who have had a lifelong passion for inspiring movies about gymnastics. Here are three favorite movies that focus on gymnasts and gymnastics -- plus one bad movie to watch for kicks.

Stick It

A 2006 movie starring Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski) and Missy Peregrym and featuring a cameo appearance by Olympic Gold Medalist Carly Patterson, Stick It is the standard "Bring It On"-style sports achievement movie for gymnasts. With a rousing, energetic soundtrack, Stick It paints an energetic picture of the world of gymnastics, and it is an entertaining movie for teens involved in gymnastics. this film was rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

American Anthem

Cheesy as it may be, American Anthem is a favorite movie among gymnasts. Released in 1986 and starring Mitchell Gaylord and Janet Jones, American Anthem is the story of a gymnast named Steve who, after giving up gymnastics, takes it up again at the inspiration of Julie. Together, the two strive to get Steve to the Olympics. This movie is chock full of the usual cheese seen in eighties movies, but it is still a highly recommended film for true gymnastics geeks. American Anthem is rated PG-13.

The Gymnast

Released in 2006 to awards and critical acclaim, The Gymnast is the soothing, inspirational and moving story of a female gymnast who is stricken by an injury that ends her career. After a period of unhappiness, Jane Hawkins, played by Dreya Weber, meets a friend who encourages her to use her talent on an alternative path, with the Cirque du Soleil. This film was not rated by the MPAA.

Finally, the bad one:

Gymkata

Fans of campy gymnastics movies may also like Gymkata, but not because it is a good movie. Rated by Maxim as one of the worst movies of all time, Gymkata centers around a championship gymnast hired as an agent by the United States government. The aptly assumed parade of bad movie hilarity and ridiculous gymnast stunts then ensues.

Whether the local crowd is into cheerleading gymnastics, tumbling gymnastics or American competitive gymnastics, the new media world offers a variety of gymnastics movies. These films, both new and old, can help with teaching gymnastics by inspiring students and offering a different perspective on ability in the world of gymnastics.