Inaugural Aerobic Gymnastics Camp - A Success
The Uganda Gymnastics Federation (UGF), in partnership with the Russian Gymnastics Federation, successfully crowned 2025, by hosting an Aerobic Gymnastics Training Camp from 18 to 22 December 2025, reinforcing its commitment to the structured development of aerobic gymnastics in Uganda.
The five-day camp brought together athletes, coaches, and officials for an intensive training and education program aimed at raising technical standards and preparing gymnasts for competitive pathways.
PARTICIPATION AND KEY STATISTICS
Participant Description
The camp recorded strong participation and engagement:
* 3 gymnasts (ages 5–13) from 2 gymnastics clubs
* 18 local coaches from 13 clubs, schools and insitutions participated in coach education sessions
* 30+ hours of structured technical and physical training
* 2 choreography sequences developed during the camp
* +80% attendance rate across all training days
Aerobic Gymnastic Class of 2025
The camp was led by a team of experienced facilitators from the Russian and Ugandan Gymnastics Federations:
* Mariia Oskner – International Aerobic Gymnastics Coach
* Vladislav Oskner – Aerobic Gymnastics Technical Specialist
* Shakirah Nansubuga – UGF Head of Aerobic Gymnastics
Their expertise provided athletes and coaches with international best practices while adapting training methods to the local context.
COACH EDUCATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING
Alongside athlete development, the camp placed strong emphasis on coach education, equipping Ugandan coaches with modern training methodologies and athlete-centered approaches.
Coaches participated in:
* Practical floor sessions
* Routine construction and progression planning
* Athlete safety and load management
VOICES FROM THE CAMP
“We are grateful for the support and knowledge we received at the camp. It has improved our technical awareness. The progress in just five days was remarkable,” said Rodney, Lubiri High School.
“I learned about the difficulty elements of Aerobic Gymnastics and gained confidence performing in front of others,” Jennifer, a gymnast from Mukono.
“We need to open these courses up to more sports science students at our campus and other campuses around Uganda. If we can target August or early September, we could make UGF courses mandatory and get a sizeable crowd.” Loyce, a lecturer from Kyambogo University.
IMPACT AND FUTURE DIRECTION
Parents and club representatives praised the camp for providing structured, high-quality training during the holiday period. The camp also helped identify promising athletes for future national development programs.
“Initiatives like this are essential for growing aerobic gymnastics nationally and preparing Uganda for regional and international competitions. We plan to host national championships in August 2026 and hope that each club or school represented here will participate,” noted UGF President Ayaa.
The Uganda Gymnastics Federation extends its sincere appreciation to all athletes, coaches, facilitators, parents, and partners who contributed to the success of this camp.
Congratulations to Shakirah, Head of Aerobic Gymnastics on organising this successful event.
Together, we continue to elevate gymnastics in Uganda.
I am honored to have been part of the organizing committee and thank everyone who participated in this cause, it was an amazing experience.