The University of Utah Gymnastics High Performance Camp offers a premier training experience for dedicated young gymnasts looking to refine their skills under the guidance of Utah’s nationally recognized coaching staff. Held annually in Salt Lake City, this camp provides an immersive environment where athletes train at the same state-of-the-art facility that has produced NCAA champions and Olympic competitors.
Who Should Attend
The High Performance Camp is designed for gymnasts ages 7 through 18 who are competing at Level 4 or above. Whether an athlete is working toward optional routines or preparing for elite competition, this camp provides the coaching depth and facility quality to accelerate improvement. Gymnasts of all competitive backgrounds are welcome, from JO competitors to XCEL athletes seeking to sharpen technique and build confidence.
Each participant is evaluated at the start of camp so coaches can tailor instruction to individual strengths and areas for growth. This personalized approach ensures that every gymnast—regardless of where they are in their competitive journey—receives meaningful, targeted feedback throughout the week.
Training on All Four Events
Campers receive intensive instruction across all four women’s gymnastics events: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. Each event station is led by specialized coaches who break down technique, progression, and competitive strategy.
Vault
Drills focusing on approach speed, board contact, block technique, and flight mechanics. Athletes work on perfecting current vaults and progressing toward higher-difficulty skills with proper form and safety protocols.
Uneven Bars
Emphasis on swing mechanics, release moves, transitions between bars, and dismount technique. Coaches provide spotting and progressive skill development for athletes at every level.
Balance Beam
Focus on connection values, acrobatic series, dance elements, and dismount execution. Training includes mental preparation strategies to build confidence and consistency under pressure.
Floor Exercise
Tumbling progression, choreography and artistry, leap and jump technique, and performance quality. Athletes develop the combination of power and expression that defines elite floor work.
Beyond the Apparatus: Supplemental Training
The High Performance Camp goes beyond traditional event training by incorporating essential supplemental disciplines that develop the complete gymnast. These sessions are integrated throughout the camp schedule to complement apparatus work and build long-term athletic development.
- Strength and Conditioning: Functional strength training tailored to gymnastics, including core stability, upper body power, and explosive leg strength exercises designed to improve performance and reduce injury risk.
- Dance and Artistry: Ballet-based training with a focus on body lines, extension, pointed toes, and the expressive movement quality that judges reward in competition. Dance sessions help gymnasts develop grace and presence on beam and floor.
- Sports Nutrition: Educational sessions on fueling for performance, proper hydration, recovery nutrition, and building a healthy relationship with food. Campers learn practical strategies they can apply during training and competition seasons.
- Mental Skills Training: Workshops on visualization, focus techniques, managing competition nerves, building resilience, and developing a growth mindset. Mental skills coaches help athletes develop the psychological tools that separate good gymnasts from great ones.
World-Class Coaching Staff
One of the defining features of the High Performance Camp is the caliber of instruction. Campers train under the direction of the University of Utah Gymnastics coaching staff, whose combined experience includes multiple NCAA championships, conference titles, and the development of All-Americans and national team members.
In addition to the Utah staff, the camp regularly features guest coaches and clinicians who bring diverse perspectives from club, collegiate, and elite gymnastics. This variety of coaching voices gives campers a well-rounded experience and exposure to different training philosophies and technical approaches.
Coach-to-Camper Ratio: The High Performance Camp maintains a low coach-to-camper ratio to ensure every athlete receives individualized attention, hands-on spotting, and detailed feedback throughout each training session.
Individualized Instruction and Video Analysis
A standout feature of this camp is the commitment to individualized instruction. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, coaches assess each gymnast’s abilities and goals to create a targeted training plan for the week. Athletes receive personal corrections, progressions suited to their skill level, and encouragement to push beyond their comfort zones safely.
The camp also incorporates video analysis sessions where gymnasts can review their skills in slow motion alongside coaches. Seeing their technique on screen helps athletes understand corrections more clearly and creates a powerful visual learning experience. Campers are able to compare their execution to ideal form, identify timing issues, and track improvements throughout the camp.
Day Camp and Overnight Options
To accommodate different family schedules and preferences, the High Performance Camp is available in two formats:
Day Camp
Ideal for local families or those who prefer to arrange their own accommodations. Day campers participate in all training sessions, meals during camp hours, and organized activities. Drop-off and pick-up times are structured to provide a full day of training while giving families flexibility in the evenings.
Overnight Camp
The full immersive experience. Overnight campers stay in supervised university housing, enjoy all meals, and participate in evening activities including team-building exercises, movie nights, and campus tours. This option lets athletes fully focus on their gymnastics in a supportive, fun environment away from home.
State-of-the-Art Facility in Salt Lake City
The camp takes place at the University of Utah’s gymnastics training facility in Salt Lake City, the same venue where the Red Rocks train and prepare for NCAA competition. The facility features full competition equipment, foam pits, a dedicated dance studio, and conditioning areas designed specifically for gymnastics training.
Training in a collegiate environment gives young gymnasts a taste of what it feels like to pursue gymnastics at the highest level. Many past campers have credited the experience with motivating them to set bigger goals and commit more fully to their gymnastics development.
Salt Lake City: A Destination for Families
While gymnasts are hard at work at camp, families visiting Salt Lake City have no shortage of things to see and do. The city sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountains and offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and dining.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon, biking along the Jordan River Parkway, or exploring the trails at Red Butte Garden.
- Cultural Attractions:The Natural History Museum of Utah, Clark Planetarium, Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, and Temple Square.
- Shopping and Dining: City Creek Center, the 9th and 9th neighborhood, and a thriving local restaurant scene featuring diverse cuisines.
- Day Trips: Park City (home of the 2002 Winter Olympics), the Great Salt Lake, and several nearby national parks and monuments are all within easy driving distance.
Many families choose to extend their trip and combine camp with a family vacation, making the most of everything northern Utah has to offer.
What to Bring
Campers should come prepared with the following items to make the most of their training experience:
- Multiple leotards and workout attire
- Grips (for bar workers) and wristbands
- Water bottle (hydration stations available throughout the facility)
- Athletic tape and any personal training aids
- Sunscreen and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities
- Notebook and pen for taking notes during lectures and video review
- Bedding and personal items (overnight campers)
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Registration and Camp Information
The University of Utah High Performance Camp typically runs during the summer months, with sessions available in June and July. Registration opens in the spring and spaces fill quickly due to the camp’s reputation and limited enrollment. Early registration is strongly encouraged to secure a spot.
Camp fees include coaching instruction, facility use, supplemental training sessions, a camp T-shirt, and meals during camp hours. Overnight campers receive additional accommodations and evening programming. Financial assistance may be available for qualifying families.
Important: All campers must provide a completed medical form, proof of insurance, and a signed liability waiver before the first day of camp. These documents ensure the safety of every participant and allow coaches to be aware of any special medical considerations.