Tots keeping fit with mini gym

A MINI gym for kids is doing its part to combat obesity in Townsville children with a program that teaches exercise for fun at an early age.

Children as young as four months old and aged up to five years are tumbling, jumping, climbing and learning ball skills at the Aitkenvale gym.

Sporty Kids Australia owner, former teacher and gymnastics coach Hayley Allen and personal trainer Tenille Cooper started the fitness program just over a year ago in a bid to encourage movement and confidence in children.

“We are a fitness and movement program and what we do is develop fundamental movement skills in balance, strength, flexibility and coordination,” Miss Allen said.

“We wanted to promote a healthy lifestyle from an early age.

“In the industries we have worked in we know the daily exercise and developing healthy fitness patterns can start at an early age.”

Miss Allen said keeping active also promoted strong bones and muscles and increased concentration levels.

“Not only are they improving their physical skills, they also become more socially confident and interactive by being around other kids.

“Hundreds of families have taken up the program since we started 18 months ago and we have families who have stayed with us, and it is rewarding to see those children grow and develop over that time.

“What we promote is that being active can be really fun and being active as a family is important.”