Gym Partnership Program

When you support a foster child to attend your CrossFit gym, it may be the first time in their life that they have had the encouragement or opportunity to do so. It can be incredibly rewarding for them to take part in activities that are enjoyed by their peers. This in itself can provide a sense of normalcy and belonging as well as empowerment. There are also opportunities to experience new roles within an environment that has clear rules and boundaries.

Whether they shine at weightlifting, gymnastics or simply love to move, being part of CrossFit can help shy children open up, make friends and teaches a range of social skills. CROSSFIT requires commitment to develop skills and better performance, which gives children of all ages something to focus on and promotes a healthy attitude towards the body and mind. You may even find it easier to persuade kids to eat their greens if they’re planning on putting in a good performance at the gym! Regular attendance to CrossFit classes, lessons or games also encourages responsibility and good time management by requiring that other tasks such as homework be completed alongside attendance.

Studies have shown that childhood obesity has a direct correlation to levels of socioeconomic deprivation and that participation in physical activity has physical, mental and economics benefits. It therefore can not be emphasised enough, the importance of encouraging and providing opportunities for sporting and recreational activities for children and young people in care who often have experienced a difficult start in life such as trauma, neglect and deprivation. CrossFit activities, while helping to build confidence and new skills, can also support placement stability by giving foster carers the opportunity to encourage/praise success and build relationships with those they care for. If the child or young person has moved to a new area when they entered the foster placement, it can also lead to greater socialization by giving opportunities to mix with and form new friendships. One of the biggest influences on developing positive self worth is peer-to-peer relationships and therefore promoting positive role-models and social groups through CrossFit activities is invaluable to develop great team-work, coordination and communication skills.

The negative impact of insecurity and adversity early in life on the confidence, resilience and self-esteem of children and young people in care can result in lower goal-setting as they try to protect what is sometimes a fragile and battered self-identity. Small wins and confidence through CrossFit and coaching mentorship could be the answer for foster youth and teens. If your gym is interested in being a gym partner & want change the lives of foster youth please reach us through our contact home page or email us at fosterfitcompetition@gmail.com for an application.