Build confidence. Learn motor skills. Have fun. That’s what children do when they go to The

Little Gym. This local gem, located in Highland Heights, has become a popular hotspot for

families and their children.  

 

Belinda Gest, the owner of The Little Gym of Highland Heights, has created a community-

centered haven for child development and fun. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Belinda and her

husband, reflecting on their future, decided to merge their passions for fitness, children, and

education.  

 

The Little Gym was the perfect fit, offering a holistic approach to child development that

families would love. Tragically, before they could fully realize their dream, Belinda’s husband

passed away. Despite this heartbreaking loss, Belinda dedicated herself to making The Little

Gym of Highland Heights a labor of love and a positive impact on the community. 

 

“The Little Gym is an awesome brand,” shares Belinda. “We have perfected this model for kids

and continue to innovate and update our activities to keep them fresh and exciting for families.

We incorporate the latest trends in child development and fitness to ensure that families keep

coming back.” Belinda works as an attorney and is a proud mother of three adult daughters,

each with their own unique careers but having a shared passion for children and learning.

Kenya, 34, is a kindergarten teacher in Shaker Heights and professional dancer; Nikiiyah, 27,

lives in Los Angeles and works in animation; and her youngest daughter, Simone, is a graduate

student in Maryland studying Child Life Sciences and Autism Studies. Belinda also has a

beautiful granddaughter, Noa-Grace, 4. 

 

Located in The Shoppes at Alpha Place in Highland Heights, The Little Gym of Highland Heights

opened its doors in April 2024. In a short period of time, it has built a wonderful community of

families, eager to participate in its fun and educational programs. The facility is one of the

largest in the nation and features state of the art safety standards. Offering gymnastics, dance,

reading programs, awesome birthday parties, early learning classes, camps, parent night outs,

private events and play dates has allowed The Little Gym to emerge as a leader in the children’s

recreational and entertainment industry. 

 

Classes For 4 Months Old - 12 Years 

 

The Little Gym offers classes for children starting as young as four months old, up to 12 years

old. Parent-child classes, for the youngest age group, foster early development, motor skills,

balance, and coordination, while providing a fun and safe environment for social connections.

Pre-kindergarten classes for 3-6-year-olds focus on fundamental motor skills and boosting

confidence through mastering new skills. The grade school classes for 6-12-year-olds emphasize

skill progression, teamwork, friendship, instilling perseverance, discipline, and achievement in a

noncompetitive environment. Each age group has a unique curriculum that includes a different

lesson plan for each class.  

 

The Little Gym’s commitment to safety is paramount, using equipment custom-sized for kids

that meets the highest safety standards. The facility is not just about gymnastics, dance, and

sports skills; but also about fostering a sense of community, building life-long relationships, and

a positive environment where everyone is welcome to enjoy Serious Fun! 

 

A Talented Team 

 

The Little Gym of Highland Heights is led by a passionate and skilled team of gymnasts, dancers,

fitness instructors, educators and collegiate athletes. Director of Operations, Destiny King,

previously led a vibrant gymnastics studio and achieved a high level of success in gymnastics

and track while studying at Duquesne University. Director of Curriculum and Training, Nasha

Manitkul-Davis, is a highly decorated gymnast and graduate of Kent State University and The

University of North Texas. The team also includes Mizraim Samidan, Brooke Schwartz, Ellen

Wheatland and Kenya Gest. “Their passion and expertise make The Little Gym a special place

for kids and families,” says Belinda. “Kids who come here don’t want to leave. Not only do

families have a blast, but they also experience an increase in confidence, self-esteem, and

exceed a variety of child development milestones. Parents have peace of mind when they come

here that their kids are in good hands with our amazing team,” adds Belinda.  

 

Check Out The Little Gym of Highland Heights! 

 

Belinda encourages families to visit The Little Gym and sign up for a complimentary

Introductory class. There are a variety of discount programs for military, first responders,

siblings, and a partnership with the Northeast Ohio Network (NEON) to support children with

autism. Members enjoy complimentary events, practice time and discounted supplemental

programs/parties and access to offers from sister brands: Urban Air, Snapology, Premier Martial

Arts, Class 101, Sylvan Learning and XP League.  

 

Belinda Gest’s dedication to The Little Gym of Highland Heights has created a nurturing

environment that combines fun, education, and community, ensuring a bright future for the

children and families who walk through its doors. 

 

Visit The Little Gym of Highland Heights at 767 Alpha Dr, Highland Heights, OH 44143. 

thelittlegym.com/ohio-highland-heights/ 

(440) 207-9153