A children's gymnastics coach needs more than technical knowledge of how to do stunts. A coach must have a love of kids and a full supply of patience. The job also requires the ability to work with boys and girls of different ages and levels of talent. It's helpful if you're a former gymnast yourself, but this isn't usually a job requirement.

Education and Experience

Some gymnastic coaching jobs require a high school diploma with at least one to two years of experience. However, positions at educational institutions and competitive gyms may require studies in child development, physical education and courses in gymnastics. Teaching skills are an essential accompaniment to knowledge of the sport. A certification in coaching, first aid and CPR may also be necessary.

Job Functions

Depending on the employer, job functions may slightly vary. Gymnastics coaches may be responsible for leading and supervising classes with children as young as one year old. Duties may include setting up and safe-proofing the gym area, instructing and demonstrating skills and abilities in gymnastics, developing dynamic lesson plans, training new instructors and administering first aid if necessary. Coaches may also have to maintain computer records of classes, fees and participation.

Additional Requirements

Good interpersonal skills are necessary to communicate with parents, staff and the general public. A gymnastics coach might have to travel to team competitions, specialize in teaching one specific event and learn about competition requirements. Age requirements can be as young as 16 years of age with a neat and professional appearance. Some facilities require a tolerance to noise, dust -- due to flying white chalk -- and chaos from many children performing stunts at the same time. Coaches may also need to pass a background check and applicable drug tests.

Physical Abilities

Gymnastics coaches may be required to lift equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Strenuous physical activity may include climbing, balancing, stooping, crouching, crawling, pulling and extensively reaching at heights above floor level. Tumbling and other gymnastics activities may also be required. Depending on the facility, instructions can be done indoors and outdoors, with exposure to sunlight, pollen and other airborne allergens.

Salary Expectations

Some gymnastics coach jobs pay pay the hour. However, according to Simply Hired, the average annual full-time income of a gymnastics instructor was $32,000 as of July 2014. These wages may vary depending on the employer, job description and requirements.