In 1995, twin brothers Ryan and Eric were born seven weeks early. Ryan, the smaller child at 2 lb. 15 oz., needed hernia surgery and then developed an upper respiratory infection when he was 6 months old. These setbacks slowed his development. At age 2, he was still trying to take his first steps. The boys’ pediatrician recommended a gymnastics class for both Ryan and Eric to help with their balance and motor skills. Soon they were running and climbing, and by age 3, riding their bikes without training wheels.
Ryan and Eric still take occasional gymnastics classes to help with conditioning for their travel baseball teams. In addition to the physical benefits, both boys have learned to take instruction and make corrections, which have made them more coachable on the baseball field.