WORDS BY ERICA NEWTON, MYFIRSTGYM CO-FOUNDER
Ahhh, winter school holidays. That magical time of year when the lunchboxes get a break, the uniforms stay crumpled on the floor, we eat allll the comfort food, and the kids… well, let’s be honest, they turn into high-energy Oodie-clad devils by 9:03am on Day One.
If you’re anything like me, you want your kids off the couch (and their screens!) but you don’t have time to be the taxi driver ferrying them between 17 different activities. You want something fun, local, social… and if it helps wear them out even a little before bedtime, even better. Enter: MyFirstGym. It’s your secret parenting weapon these holidays.
Movement That’s Actually Fun (Yes, Really!)
At MyFirstGym, we’re not just another kids’ fitness centre. We’re inspiring movement through fun and variety. Our gyms are popping up all over Australia—because parents everywhere are craving the same thing: a place where kids can move their bodies, build confidence, and just be kids, without the pressure of competition or the usual ‘serious sports’ vibes.
We’ve created a space where the energy is high, the smiles are real, and the focus is on helping kids fall in love with movement—whether they’re the sporty type or not. Not every child dreams of kicking the winning goal or making the rep team, and that’s okay! We believe all kids deserve a chance to enjoy being active, not just the team-sport superstars.
More Options Than Your Streaming Service
Our holiday programs don’t take a break, and are a smorgasbord of movement fun: Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses, parkour, gymnastics, dance, martial arts and more. Whether your child is a budding gymnast, a mini ninja, or just likes to jump off things for fun (RIP my couch), there’s something for them here. Bonus: they’ll be out of that Oodie long enough to give it a wash or at the very least, an airing.
We even offer trial classes, so your child can find their groove without committing to one thing. (Because we all know a five-year-old’s passion for ballet can turn into a deep love of boxing overnight…)
A Growing Network, A Stronger Community
With new locations opening up across the country, chances are there’s a MyFirstGym near you (or about to be!) Our growing network means more families are finding a local hub of movement, mateship and motivation, and it’s not just about kids. As a mum of three, I’ve had my fair share of sideline small talk, but at MyFirstGym, the vibe is different. Less competitive comparison, more connection and lots of smiling faces. It’s refreshing.
We’re building a real community. One that supports healthy habits and celebrates every child’s progress, whether they’re mastering a cartwheel or just brave enough to try something new. The pressure’s low, but the high-fives are endless.
What to Expect These School Holidays
Our holiday sessions are built around what kids actually enjoy: freedom to move, friends to laugh with, and coaches who know how to bring out the best in them. You won’t hear “I’m bored” or “Can I have the iPad?” when they’ve spent an hour flipping, jumping, balancing and burning off all that school-term energy.
Plus, it’s indoors, so no weather dramas. No mud-soaked soccer boots or sunburnt shoulders. Just climate-controlled chaos.
Ready to Join the Fun?
These holidays, ditch the guilt, dodge the madness and give your kids the gift of joyful movement. Whether they’re climbing, crawling or cartwheeling their way through our sessions, they’ll be getting fitter, stronger, and more confident, without even realising it.
Come join the fun at your local MyFirstGym. We’ll be here with open arms, padded floors, and maybe even a coffee in hand. You bring the kids and check the Oodie at the door. We’ll bring the movement.
Let’s keep the holidays happy, healthy and a little less hectic.
Find your nearest MyFirstGym and book a trial at www.myfirstgym.com.au