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.

Coach Mike Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Coach Mike Ockrim is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach, MovNat Level 1 Coach, and founder of Mighty Oak Athletic, a youth strength and conditioning facility in Westmont, Illinois, serving student athletes and families across DuPage County and the western Chicago suburbs.

His “Be strong to be useful” philosophy and Death Resistant framework — Recovery, Movement, and Nutrition — anchor MOA’s programs and his work as a keynote speaker for schools, athletic departments, and community organizations.

Michael has more than 30 years of training experience, has been a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic for over 8 years, and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. He is also the founder of Sunday Funday Sports, a youth sports nonprofit, and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to sharpen his expertise in performance nutrition for young athletes.

Michael is the author of three books, all available on Amazon:

Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KBJXCQH

13 Pounds in 30 Days

Mighty Oak Athletic Nutrition — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFTDM4K4

To book Coach Mike for a speaking engagement or learn about MOA’s youth strength and conditioning programs, email strength@mightyoakathletic.com or CLICK HERE.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
Previous
Previous

What Age Should Kids Start Building Muscle?

Next
Next

What is the Best Age to Build Strength?