In-Focus Advertorial | Published March 19, 2026
TROY — The focus for youth and adult athletes at Monarch Sports Academy in Troy is about skill development, building strength and flexibility, and valuing the benefits of exercise. Perhaps that is why it is one of the fastest-growing sports facilities of its kind in the area.
Monarch is a youth-focused gymnastics and athletic training center that offers classes and programs for children, teens and adults interested in building strength, coordination and confidence. The academy is located at 1855 Bellingham Road, Suite G, in Troy and serves families from across Oakland County and surrounding communities.
Owner Amy Bessler has years of experience managing gymnastics programs, facilities and municipal classes. It took her three years to find the perfect location to build her own business. The facility continues to grow its courses and reach since opening last September. “It’s amazing because I’ve had former students bring their own children here,” Bessler said.
The facility offers a range of instructional programs, including recreational gymnastics classes, tumbling instruction and specialty clinics, with options designed for beginners through more advanced athletes. Programs are structured to help young participants develop athletic fundamentals while encouraging teamwork, discipline and physical fitness. The academy also operates a competitive gymnastics team and pre-team program through the Michigan Recreational Gymnastics League for youth athletes who want to pursue higher-level competition starting at the age of 4.
The gym at Monarch is the gymnastics home of Berkley and Troy high schools.
“All athletes develop at their own pace so that they can build confidence,” Bessler said. “We have competitive teams for those who want it, but we really work on being feeder programs for the local high schools. We want it to be a very positive training experience.”
The classes and instruction are also designed to help athletes who may now or eventually concentrate on other sports. Bessler has worked with numerous divers and sprinters who have benefited from the core full-body strength they have gained.
Other gymnastics classes are available for children younger than 2 years. Bessler keeps the six-week courses affordable at a total cost ranging from $78 to $120, depending on the sport, age, skill level, and amount of time per class.
Classes are open to a wide range of ages — from very young children learning basic movement skills to older students and adults seeking structured training. One such adult class is the fit and flex class to help adults maintain a good range of motion. There is an adult gymnastics class as well, often attended by former gymnasts who want to maintain their skills and flexibility.
In addition to classes, the gym hosts events, clinics and rentals for parties and group activities, making it a gathering place for youth sports and community recreation. Bessler also wants to add other sports, such as girls wrestling, based on demand.
The next round of gymnastics, ninja, tumbling, adult fitness and other exercise classes for youth and adults will start the week of April 13.
More information about programs and registration is available at monarchsportsacademy.com or by calling (248) 422-6076.