Why CrossFit for Kids? Strengthening Socioemotional Skills and Resilience for Life
At Organización de Amigos, we believe that CrossFit isn’t just a sport—it’s a holistic tool for growth, resilience, and socioemotional development in young people. Here’s why CrossFit uniquely benefits kids and prepares them for life beyond fitness:
Building Physical and Mental Strength
CrossFit’s scalable exercises allow kids to push their physical limits safely, instilling a sense of achievement with every workout. Studies show that physical activity boosts self-esteem and reduces anxiety, with strength-training exercises like those in CrossFit having a particularly positive impact on youth confidence and mental health (National Institute of Mental Health, 2020). Regular physical achievements help kids see tangible progress, boosting resilience and the determination to overcome life’s challenges (Sallis et al., 2000).Cultivating Social Skills and Teamwork
CrossFit classes emphasize community. Kids work in groups, learning to cheer each other on and respect each other’s efforts. This social interaction builds a sense of belonging and empathy, both key for socioemotional development. Research by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) emphasizes that programs focusing on social-emotional skills lead to improved behavior, increased academic success, and better stress management (CASEL, 2015).Developing Goal Setting and Perseverance
Setting and achieving fitness goals is integral to CrossFit, teaching kids the value of commitment and hard work. The American Psychological Association notes that goal setting, especially when it’s achievable and incremental, improves focus, increases motivation, and enhances self-discipline—skills that are beneficial academically and personally (Locke & Latham, 2002).Promoting Positive Behavioral Change in Schools
Exercise has been linked to improved classroom behavior, better concentration, and reduced hyperactivity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019). CrossFit encourages discipline and respect, helping kids translate these values into better interactions at school and at home. In our program, we’ve seen that kids who engage in CrossFit are more attentive, more engaged in group activities, and handle frustrations with greater ease (Donnelly et al., 2016).Fostering Long-Term Health Habits
By making fitness enjoyable and social, CrossFit encourages kids to view physical activity as a lifelong habit. Research from the CDC shows that habits formed in youth are likely to persist into adulthood, making early exposure to engaging fitness activities essential for lasting health (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018).
At Organización de Amigos, our goal is to offer kids not just a workout but a lifelong toolkit for health, resilience, and positive social interaction. Through CrossFit, we are not only supporting physical well-being but also equipping youth with skills that will help them navigate school, relationships, and the challenges of the future.
References:
National Institute of Mental Health (2020). Physical Activity and Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov
Sallis, J. F., Prochaska, J. J., & Taylor, W. C. (2000). A Review of Correlates of Physical Activity of Children and Adolescents. The Medical Journal of Australia, 172(9), 313–318.
Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). (2015). The CASEL Guide: Effective Social and Emotional Learning Programs. Retrieved from https://www.casel.org
Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a Practically Useful Theory of Goal Setting and Task Motivation. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705–717.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Physical Activity and Behavior. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
Donnelly, J. E., Hillman, C. H., Castelli, D. M., Etnier, J. L., Lee, S., & Tomporowski, P. D. (2016). Physical Activity and Academic Achievement Across the Curriculum. Preventive Medicine, 89, 14-23.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2018). Physical Activity for Children. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity
