How to Build Core Strength in Children

Building Core Strength in Children: The Mighty Oak Athletic Approach to Safe and Effective Training

Core strength is vital for children as it supports their overall physical development, sports performance, and injury prevention. At Mighty Oak Athletic, we believe that proper coaching makes strength training safe and effective for student athletes.

Why Core Strength Matters

Core muscles stabilize the spine, maintain posture, and facilitate powerful movements. Strong core muscles are crucial for balance, coordination, and athletic performance. They also help prevent injuries by supporting proper movement patterns.

Proper Coaching for Safety and Effectiveness

1. Expert Guidance: Our coaches are trained to provide age-appropriate exercises that are both safe and effective. They ensure proper technique to avoid injury and maximize benefits.

2. Personalized Programs: Each child receives a tailored program that matches their fitness level and goals, ensuring progressive and sustainable improvement.

3. Positive Environment: Our supportive and fun environment encourages children to enjoy their workouts, fostering a lifelong love for fitness.

At-Home Bodyweight Workout for Core Strength

Here’s a simple bodyweight workout that can be done at home to build core strength:

1. Plank

- Instructions: Lie face down, then lift your body onto your forearms and toes. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels.

- Duration: Hold for 20-30 seconds, rest, and repeat 3 times.

2. Dead Bug

- Instructions: Lie on your back with arms extended towards the ceiling. Lift your knees to a 90-degree angle. Slowly lower your right arm and left leg towards the floor, keeping your lower back pressed into the ground. Return to the starting position and switch sides.

- Reps: 10-12 per side, 3 sets.

3. Bicycle Crunches

- Instructions: Lie on your back with hands behind your head. Bring your knees towards your chest and lift your shoulder blades off the ground. Straighten your right leg out while turning your upper body to the left, bringing your right elbow towards your left knee. Switch sides.

- Reps: 12-15 per side, 3 sets.

4. Mountain Climbers

- Instructions: Start in a plank position. Bring your right knee towards your chest, then switch legs quickly.

- Duration: 30 seconds, rest, and repeat 3 times.

5. Leg Raises

- Instructions: Lie on your back with your legs straight. Slowly lift your legs towards the ceiling, keeping them straight. Lower them back down without touching the floor.

- Reps: 10-15, 3 sets.

Building core strength in children is crucial for their overall development and sports performance. At Mighty Oak Athletic, we ensure that strength training is safe, effective, and enjoyable through proper coaching. Encourage your child to try the above workout to start building their core strength at home.

Michael Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Michael Ockrim is a strength and conditioning coach and the founder of Mighty Oak Athletic in suburban Chicago, where he trains student athletes and families to build lifelong habits around movement, recovery, and nutrition.

He has more than 30 years of personal training experience and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. Michael also serves as a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to deepen his understanding of performance nutrition.

He is the author of Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy, which explores practical strategies for longevity through strength, mobility, and lifestyle consistency.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and in our newsletters is for general informational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, videos, and information, is provided for educational and general wellness purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site or in our communications.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
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