photos by Stephen Eginoire

Gymanstics is an ultimate exercise in movement, combining elements of explosive physical power, hyper-flexibilty, and graceful balance. Training year round right is the Durango Gymnastics Girls Team, a competition-level program composed of talented girls. The team travels throughout the state to compete in Colorado Association of Recreation Athletic (CARA) gymnastic meets. Heres a glimpse of a typical training session, as the team prepares for its next competition.

A gymnast carefully squares up for a practice run on the balance beam. Anna Casper launches from the beam while Alexis Thomas, left, readies for her routine. Precise balance and and motion as demonstrated by Anna Casper. The girls intermediate class enjoys a lively chalk-up before practice on the bars. A coach helps spot a young gymnast learning the how to dismount from the bars. Toni Stoll polishes up her floor skills.