Kids Climb: Physical Benefits

Did you know that the World Health Organization recommends http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/factsheet_young_people/en/ that kids aged 5-17 should be getting at least an hour of physical activity daily to stay healthy?  They go on to say that 3 or more times a week those physical activities should include something to strengthen their muscles and bones.

That might sound like a lot of work in today’s sedentary culture.  Have no fear: we have just the thing to make those hours fly by.

Let’s Climb!

When a kid climbs, her whole body is involved in the activity.  Holding her own weight up as she climbs the wall will help her muscles and bones get stronger, and it will raise her heart rate as well.  The thing that makes it a perfect all-around workout, for kids especially, is that the puzzle, challenge, and fun of climbing makes it seem like it’s not a workout at all!

In addition to building physical strength and endurance, climbing is also a great way to develop and maintain flexibility and coordination.  Kids often have a natural flexibility and when they learn to pair that with good climbing technique and coordination, they tend to excel as natural climbers.   If you want some inspiration and an example of this, look at the video of 11 year old Ashima climbing in yesterday’s post!

Join us!

Do you know a kid who might like to climb?  We have series of week-long summer camps in June and July for different age groups, ranging from 5-14.  We also have a day camps for preschoolers (aged 3-4) on July 1, 2, 3, and 5.  Take a look and sign up!