OUR HISTORY

The story of Viking Gymnastics and Dance dates back to when our Owner, Charlie Friedman, began her gymnastics career at the age of eight and quickly fell in love with the sport. What her parents thought would be a weekly activity quickly became a passion, resulting in a deeper commitment to the sport. Her training included traditional gymnastics, ballet, and acrobatic dance.

After competing in club and high school gymnastics, Charlie performed with an acrobatic dance company throughout college. During her elementary education certification program, Charlie was hired by Niles North High School as a choreographer and assistant coach for the girls’ gymnastics team. She became head coach and in 2008 started an off-season feeder program for the high school and younger students in the area. Viking Gymnastics was born!

With budding competitive teams and a growing instructional program, Viking needed to find a home outside of the high school’s second floor gym. In 2012, we opened a bright and dynamic 15,500-square-foot gymnastics facility in Niles, Illinois. After successfully operating in that space for five years, it became apparent that a larger facility was needed. In 2017, we increased our space to 37,500 square feet. In 2025, Viking expanded yet again to over 51,000 square feet, making room for even better programming focused on both progress and fun.

Charlie and the entire Viking Staff believe that every child can benefit from gymnastics. We are committed to providing a positive and enriching experience to everyone who walks through our doors.