Our Story

Joann Distler, owner of Glacier Gymnastics, brings more than 40 years of experience in recreational and competitive gymnastics to the Flathead Valley. Her lifelong connection to the sport began as a child, when she was a competitive gymnast and her parents, Joe and Annie Rose Pipia, founded ISG Gymnastics in Harrison, New York.

What began as a family business grew into a successful gymnastics school that served its community for more than 40 years. Joann eventually took over the business and continued its tradition of excellence, sharing her knowledge, passion, and dedication with generations of gymnasts.

After selling the New York gymnastics school in 2017, Joann moved to Montana to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. In 2019, she founded Glacier Gymnastics, bringing her decades of experience and love of the sport to the Flathead Valley.

Joann is passionate about creating a positive, encouraging environment where gymnasts of all ages and abilities can build confidence, develop skills, and discover a lifelong love of gymnastics.

Our Philosophy

Plato, the great philosopher, was once asked to describe the ideal education for young people. His answer was simple: “Gymnastics for the body and music for the mind.”

At Glacier Gymnastics, we believe gymnastics offers far more than physical development. It teaches children confidence, discipline, perseverance, focus, and the value of working toward a goal. Our mission is to provide a safe, positive, and nurturing environment where every child feels supported, challenged, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

The well-being of your child is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing exceptional instruction while helping each gymnast develop not only strength and skill, but also confidence, character, and a lifelong appreciation for the sport.

When you choose Glacier Gymnastics, you are choosing more than a class. You are entrusting us with an important part of your child’s development—and we take that responsibility seriously. Every student deserves to be seen, encouraged, and taught with care.

We strive for excellence in everything we do, from the quality of our instruction to the environment we create for our gymnasts and families.

Plato believed in the powerful connection between a strong body and a strong mind. At Glacier Gymnastics, we’re proud to carry that philosophy forward.