Starting April 4, the UMD School of Public Health will host the Gymkana Home Show, featuring traditional gymnastic acts and circus-like performances. Gymkana is an SPH outreach program where UMD students from across all majors and athletic capabilities travel to schools and perform gymnastics at assemblies.
Established at the University of Maryland in 1946, today the Gymkana Troupe promotes healthy, active lifestyles through its shows, gymnastics youth camps and classes.
“This show is special because it is the culmination of the season’s worth of hard work and, for some, their last opportunity to showcase their skills for their family and friends,” said Head Coach and Director of Gymkana Joshua Montfort. “This is the only School of Public Health that has its own sports team and one that promotes such a positive message.”
The 2025 Home Show will take place on both Friday and Saturday April 4 and 5 at 7 p.m. and tickets are available to buy here.
Freshman computer science major Max Burkes has been practicing two hours, five days a week for the Home Show. Burkes grew up practicing flips and tricks in his backyard and joined the troupe because of its inclusivity to students.
“When I found out there was a gymnastics troupe open to everyone, I was excited because I hadn’t had much practice outside of my backyard,” Burkes said. “The openness and friendliness of Gymkana really made me want to join.”
Similar to Burkes, junior cell biology and genetics major Artina Zarpak only had recreational experience with gymnastics growing up. Zarpak is excited about preparing for the show and encourages everyone to come and watch.
“There’s not really much other space for me to do gymnastics as an adult,” Zarpak said. “I decided to try it out one day, and it was the best decision ever. The community here is so beautiful. The connection we all have with each other is so strong.”
I’ve met so many friends here that I want to know for the rest of my life.
As a child, sophomore environmental science and policy major Olive Beverly attended the Gymkana’s summer camps since 2011. She began working at the camps in 2022 and joined the troupe upon her admission into the university. The strength and friendliness of the community is something Beverly cherishes.
“I’ve met so many friends here that I want to know for the rest of my life. It’s really fun to have that everlasting community,” Beverly said.
The students encourage the campus community to attend the Home Show to witness - and be motivated by – all the hard work, effort and teamwork the troupe has put into creating the performance.
“I hope to inspire people to try out movement and wellness for themselves,” Burkes said. “Everyone should come watch the show.”
– Sumaya Abdel-Motagaly