Ever since the first edition of the Paralympics in 1960, the IOC has constantly looked to add more sports. Unfortunately, gymnastics, one of the most popular Olympic sports didn’t find a place. However, that might all be set to change as the FIG’s latest initiative hopes to include Para-gymnastics by the 2032 Olympic Games.

The official British Gymnastics social media handle posted a video of the para-gymnast Monica Fisher, practicing for a special event. The incredible footage showed the single-arm amputee acing a routine on the balance beam. Besides a slight adjustment during a turn, the young gymnast performed a nearly flawless routine with a front flip dismount. However, that wasn’t even the best part. 

Monica Fisher, Iona Timmons, Sophie Ireland, and Zara Coote from the City of Glasgow Gymnastics Club are heading to Norway in November. There, the young gymnasts will help the Para-Gymnastics Working Group, “to trial the new code at the first Para-gymnastics international in the bid to have it as a sport in the Paralympics,” informed British Gymnastics. The news alongside Fisher’s routine elated fans.

“We need to see para gymnastics at the Olympics. Literally everyone I know has said the same!” commented one fan. However, it turned out that the individual didn’t exaggerate when they said “literally everyone,” as another fan proved. “Cannot WAIT to see gymnastics at the Paralympics, yes, yes, yes!!!” commented the Instagram user who couldn’t withhold their excitement.

All four of the young gymnasts hail from the City of Glasgow, Scotland, and the Working group handpicked them. British Gymnastics has taken the initiative to include Para-gymnastics by the time Brisbane 2032 rolls around. British Gymnastics Foundation’s Managing Director Patrick Bonner leads the Para-Gymnastics Working Group.

Besides Bonner, Chair of British Gymnastics’ Disability Panel, Dr. Angela Turner is also part of the group. They chose these four girls after their performance at the Scottish National Championships in February. The team of youngsters will help the working group create classifications for the first international competition.

Will para-gymnastics make the cut for the Paralympics?

Gymnastics enthusiasts were outright in their praise for the initiative. “Para gymnastics, a big yes!!” encouraged one fan. The community welcomed positive news after the Jordan Chiles bronze medal controversy became increasingly complicated and messy since Paris 2024 concluded in August. “Fantastic,” added another Instagram user after watching Fisher’s immaculate routine.

However, while the Para-Gymnastics Working Group and the four young gymnasts may inspire confidence, it’s best to temper expectations. While fans are eager to watch gymnastics become part of the Paralympics, it entire process is in its nascent stages. The fact that the Scottish gymnasts will simply aid in creating classification should be a good indication that these are early days.

Fully established and immensely popular sports such as Surfing and Skateboarding had to lobby for years before earning their spot. “We’ll begin by having many international competitions to deliver, including the first FIG Para-Gymnastics World Championships in 2027.” Bonner said in an official statement.

The international competition will only show the viability of inclusion and doesn’t guarantee it. However, the community is hopeful the FIG will succeed in its objective. “Wow!!! I love it. Hope there will be an inclusion of gymnastics in Paralympics. This is so amazing,” commented one fan, hoping for the best. What do you think will be the outcome? Let us know in the comments.