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Hula Hoop for All Ages
Hula for Health
The hula-hoop craze has hit full speed. There’s no experience necessary for kids to try this low-impact, hip-shaking, total body workout. Kids can learn choreographed hoop routines or acquire some cool tricks while getting fit. There are no age limits, so it’s suitable for the whole family (even moms-to-be), and classes are being offered at numerous locations throughout the New York City area—search hoopcity.ca/group/hoopitupnyc for one near you.
Spinning for Tweens and Teens
Get on Your Bikes and Ride
SoulCycle, the indoor cycling chain, began offering SoulTeen classes several years ago thanks to a rise in demand. Since then, gyms across the country have begun to offer spinning classes catered to a younger set. Workouts are centered on stationary bikes, are fast-paced, and feature loud music to get members in the mood to move. Most classes are open to children 11 years and older who are at least 4 feet 11 inches tall.
Go Ga-ga
The "Gentler" Dodgeball
If you’re looking for some high-energy fitness that may easily be confused for playtime, head to a ga-ga center near you, such as the Gaga Center in Manhattan (home to the only ga-ga pits in the city). Ga-ga originated in Israel and has gained mainstream popularity in recent years. Dubbed the “gentler” version of dodgeball, the game can be played in a group or one-on-one in octagonal “pits.” It combines skills like dodging, striking, running, and jumping. Once the music is turned up, it’s game on for kids ages 4 and older.
Aerial Arts
Soar through the Sky
Aerial arts aren’t just for the circus anymore. Aerial classes for kids are taking off this season, providing a challenging workout for kids ages 8-12. Learn new and interesting ways to climb and move the body on vertical silks. Classes teach strength training, basic aerial silks poses, and build a foundation for acrobatics or other performance arts. Find an outlet for your little aerial artist at schools and studios across the area.
Girls on the Run
A Running Group Just for Girls
Celebrate girlhood with Girls on the Run, a nonprofit organization that inspires girls through physical activity and positive reinforcement. The experience-based program was developed for girls in third through eighth grades to teach life skills through interactive lessons and running games. The 12-week program is designed to strengthen girls’ positive beliefs about their abilities and to motivate them to achieve their goals. At the end of each season, participants complete a 5K running event. Girls on the Run has chapters in New York City, Nassau County on Long Island, and Fairfield County, CT.
Bonus: KidFit
A Gadget to Get You Going
Let’s face it, sometimes a cool gadget can be a good motivator too. That’s why companies that produce lifestyle and activity tracking devices like KidFit have designed a bracelet just for kids ages 5-13. KidFit promotes healthy habits in kids by turning everyday activities and routines into a game. The wristband, which tracks physical activity and sleep, is a good way for parents to help their child set goals and review daily activities. The KidFit tracker is compatible with smartphone and tablet, so it’s easy to keep track from home or on the go!
