What Degree Do You Need To Be A Professional Gymnast?

Depending on the sort of professional gymnastics in which you intend to participate, you may not need any degree at all. Competitive gymnasts are often quite young and compete based on their talent rather than their education. Professional coaches may need only experience, or might have certifications or degrees to help them succeed in their careers.

Competitive Gymnasts

A competitive gymnast makes or misses the professional show based on performance in competition, regardless of what sort of education she has received. In fact, the average professional female gymnast is still in her teens -- far too young to have accumulated any meaningful academic credentials. However, a professional gymnast will have undergone years of gymnastics training and practice, representing a time and education commitment far beyond what's required to earn a bachelor's degree.

Independent Coaches

A former professional, or highly successful amateur, gymnast can make a living by opening a gymnastics school and teaching students. Coaches working for themselves can make this transition without attaining any formal education, instead relying on their reputation as a competitor and as a coach to provide their credentials. In some cases, independent coaches will pursue certifications in group fitness or sports medicine to provide additional credibility, or to comply with the requirements of a liability insurance policy.

Coaching for a Gym

It's possible to work professionally as a gymnastics coach in a large gym or health club. To qualify for these positions, it is often necessary to have some kind of two-year certificate in fitness instruction. These programs are offered at community colleges, and through distance learning programs, nationwide. USA Gymnastics offers a safety and risk management course that specifically teaches spotting, injury prevention and first aid for common gymnastic situations. This certification is accepted by most employers nationwide.

Coaching in a School

Gymnasts can also find an outlet for their skills by coaching a team at a local school, or by coaching a cheerleading, flag or drill team. To make this your sole source of income, you would need to coach as an adjunct to a professional teaching job. This is the most degree-intensive career path for a professional gymnast. Although requirements vary state by state, most require at least a bachelor's degree for a teaching job. Many require a master's degree or a graduate-level teaching license program.