Youth

Given the importance of physical activity to kids’ health and development, it makes sense that the ABCs of physical activity should be taught right alongside the ABCs of language. As a fitness professional, you have the opportunity to help shape the future activity levels and preferences of today’s youth. Here are some great ways to help kids learn the fundamental movement skills that will help lay the foundation for a lifetime of physical activity.

Research suggests that sedentary kids may be destined to become sedentary adults, and too many kids are exiting childhood without first developing a regular exercise habit or mastering basic fundamental movement skills. Here are some great beginner moves and games that are ideal for developing these basic movement skills, all while making movement and exercise a whole lot of fun.

When it comes to performance technique, kids are likely to attempt lifting weights that are too heavy for their abilities or perform an excessive number of repetitions with improper form unless a professional is properly supervising them. Learn how to utilize both speed and range of motion to create safe and effective resistance-training programs for kids.

When working with kids to improve their strength, you must consider the youth’s fitness level, size and training experience before writing or recommending a strength-training program. Here are three important rules to follow when picking the choice and order of strength-training exercises, along with some recommendations for specific exercises and progressions.

While the first two phases of training prepare kids by correcting muscular imbalances and poor posture, and enhancing strength and proper movement mechanics, the third phase—fitness training—is where things really get fun. Here are some great exercises for kids who are ready to advance their training program with external loads and exercises that will enhance their speed, quickness and power.