White Frame Corner
White Frame Corner

10 Strength-Training Exercises for Kids

Step-ups help to strengthen your legs and glutes.  Step right, then left, up onto a low bench, and down.

Bench Step-Ups

Burpees help to build upper and lower body strength (as well as cardiovascular endurance).  Squat down from standing, place your hands on the ground, and jump back into a plank position.

Burpees

Standing calf raises help to build calf strength.  Lift onto your tiptoes and hold for a few seconds before lowering.  Try doing calf raises one leg at a time for a balance challenge.

Calf Raises

Start with a lunge and place your hands over your head.  Next, lower your arms to the ground, one in front of the other, turning your body sideways, and raise your back leg into the air.

Cartwheels

Place your palms on the ground behind you and sit with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.  Lift your hips a few inches, then walk backward on your hands and feet like a crab. 

Crab Walks

Crab toe touches help to build core strength and flexibility.  Lift your left leg and right arm from your crab position and try to touch your toes.

Crab Toe Touches

Push your bottom into the air by pressing your feet against the wall.  Finally, walk your feet up the wall until you can do a handstand.

Handstand Against a Wall

Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground; your arms should be at your sides. 

Hip Bridges

Bend forward at the hips and place your hands on the ground with your knees slightly bent, starting from a standing position.  Then, in a plank position, walk your hands forward.a

Inchworms

Lie on your stomach with your chest lifted off the ground.  Flex your feet (toes on the floor), engage your legs, and lift your body while remaining balanced on your forearms and toes.

Planks