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Diving is an excellent sport for your children to take part in. It all starts with water confidence and swimming and has opportunities for fantastic progression on a talent pathway. There are excellent diving centres up and down the UK, but if you’d like your child to make tremendous progress and make it as far as they can, here are 5 of the best clubs you might consider joining.<h3><a href="https://www.stardiving.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">The Star Diving Club, Guildford</a></h3>The Star diving club is an excellent venue for your children to train. They cater for springboarding and high diving and have opportunities for all abilities, even if your child has no experience. They are a super friendly club with ample opportunities for training and competing. The club is affiliated with Swim England, meaning that if your child shows they have what it takes to progress further than diving as a hobby, they may be selected by the head coach to become a squad member to increase training and opportunities.<h3><a href="https://www.corbysteeldiving.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Corby Steel Club, East Midlands</a></h3>With top facilities and a competitive outlook, Corby Steel club in the East Midlands is dedicated to finding and training talent. The club provides lessons for beginners and will help them continue to a top standard if they have what it takes. This club is affiliated with Swim England and has achieved Swim Mark status, demonstrating coaching and opportunities at the highest level.<h3><a href="https://www.plymouthdiving.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Plymouth Diving, Devon</a></h3>Plymouth Diving is a top club for training talent based at Plymouth Life Centre. It's a stage up from an amateur diving club for beginners. Here you will find top coaches and athletes performing or showing the talent needed to make it to the top. The pool is of world-class standard, with everything to help divers perform at their best, and is often a venue for top sporting competitions.&nbsp;<h3><a href="https://www.cambridgediving.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cambridge Diving Club</a></h3>The Cambridge Diving Development Centre is home to an inclusive learn-to-dive programme, alongside a competitive dive programme for young people with the talent and determination to go far. This squad train regularly and compete in events around the country, supporting divers to reach their full potential, including the Swim England talent programme. They are a friendly club who aim to keep all training sessions fun. <h3><a href="https://cityofsheffielddiving.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Sheffield Diving</a></h3>Sheffield diving club has it all and offers everything your child needs to get started, progress, and support as they develop into young adults. They first provide taster sessions to see if your little one would like it, and then hold lessons for children from 5 onwards, with progressive and age-appropriate training and classes for beginners and advanced divers for each age. They also provide holiday training camps and private coaching sessions for those wanting to make swift progress. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-swimming-underwater-9030298/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Kindel Media</a>

The best clubs in the UK where children and teenagers can learn diving.

Top 5 Diving Clubs in England for Kids

If your child is considering training as a diver, it is a sport well worth the effort. With the opportunity to meet new people, gain new skills, and, if they’re dedicated enough, make it to the top, it’s a fine choice. What’s more, before they can think about diving, your child must have reached a particular stage as a swimmer, which will give your child a fantastic set of physical qualities.&nbsp;All children are born with different levels of ability; however, everything mentioned in this list is qualities your child can work at, build on and improve. Highboard diving is like gymnastics of the water; if your child sticks with it, they will have a similar set of skills. Whether or not they make it to the top spot for this sport or just have fun, they will be physically and mentally better for participating.If you’re unsure how diving will support your child and what physical qualities they develop along the way, here is a quick insight into the physical benefits.<h3>Strength</h3>Diving will build muscle strength throughout the body. To dive, your child must swim, so they’ll already have arm, leg and core strength that will continue to develop the more they dive. Having all-round body strength will help your child in all areas of life and any other sports they wish to play.Swimming and diving also help your child’s heart and lung strength, making them healthier. Again, this will keep your child’s general fitness levels up and support anything else they choose to participate in.<h3>Balance</h3>A diver can only succeed in the sport if they have developed incredible balance skills and can control themselves whilst standing and preparing on a diving board. One slight wobble could jeopardise the entire jump and even make the sport dangerous because they won’t jump as they intended to. Balance goes hand in hand with strength because it requires complete body control to balance as well as divers do.<h3>Coordination</h3>As your child progresses as a diver, they will learn acute body awareness and know how to move and shape it in ways that non-divers wouldn’t. As your child learns and improves in the sport, they will develop coordination, place their bodies in the perfect position and make their jump aesthetically pleasing and technically perfect. They will use their coordination, from their feet touching the diving board to climbing out of the pool. With coordination and body awareness, they can quickly move their bodies into the perfect position to reach top speeds and enter the water with little more than a tiny splash.<h3>Flexibility</h3>Another physical quality your child will develop as a diver is flexibility. Divers need the flexibility to create the shapes and have the propulsion from the board and enter the water the way they intended. Everybody is born with a different level of flexibility, but your child can stretch and improve this quality to dive at their top level with hard work. Photo by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-diving-on-swimming-pool-1044298/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Guduru Ajay bhargav</a>

Diving helps children develop their strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility.

What Physical Qualities does Diving Develop in my Kids?

If your child loves the water but thinks they may want to branch out to train in something different, diving might be the thing. It will allow them to continue spending time in the water but teach them unique skills. Then if they show commitment and a natural aptitude, they may progress past their club and eventually even make it to the Olympics. It may sound like a dream, but it is a possibility, and here is how they’d get there.<h3>Learn to Swim</h3>For children to begin diving, they must first learn to swim. Not only does it instil essential confidence in the water and understanding of how water works, but it also provides youngsters with the strength and stamina to be able to dive. Almost all towns and cities will have a pool or leisure centre that offers lessons to help them progress.<h3>Diving Lessons</h3>Once your child reaches the certificate Learn to Swim- Stage 7, their instructor or leisure centre may offer them a different pathway, such as synchronised swimming, polo, or diving. If they choose diving, they can work through stages 8-10, called Learn to Swim Diving Awards, which builds on your child’s swimming ability to understand the water and the basic diving skills.Alternatively, you can find a dedicated diving club that will take your child through the swimming stages using boards, but always with diving as the focus. You can search via the Dive England website to find a club near you.<h3>Zone Squad</h3>If your child shows excellent ability and drive to compete as a diver, they may decide to show their talent at the England Talent Games. They could select your child to train with the zone squad (team Z) if they demonstrate what it takes - this is open to divers aged 10-11.Following selection, your child will begin an 18 month training programme to build fundamental skills and diving ability. They will learn the technical aspects, such as twisting, rotating, and bounding. This aims to prepare them for the Elite Junior Championships.<h3>National Squad</h3>Children selected for the National Squad are between 12 and 15 and selected from the National Assessment Camp. The training your child received at Zone Squad will put them in excellent stead to gain a place here. For a selection into the National Squad, divers must also have competed in the top junior competition, GB Junior Elites.In the National Squad, young divers will continue developing and refining their performing and competing skills. They will also learn more about diving as a lifestyle and the educational side and understand the nutrition needed for a top performer.<h3>Teams B and A</h3>As your child progresses, improves and competes at top world competitions, they will make their way through the zones, past Team J, for juniors and into teams B and A. These teams are for those at the very top of their game and likely to represent the UK as part of Team GB. Once they reach Team A, your child will be at the standard needed to be an Olympic diver. <a href=" https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-white-and-red-swimsuit-idiving-in-water-3672647/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Patrick Case</a>

Can my Children Progress to the Olympics in Diving?

If you want to get your kids into diving, it’s never too early to start thinking about it. Before even considering climbing onto a diving board, they need specific steps and experiences to ensure they are happy and safe. So, to help your child make it to the diving stage, here are some ideas you can do to help them.<h3>Build Water Confidence</h3>It’s never too early to introduce your children to water; if you’re sensible with how you do it, they will begin to love it from a very young age. The happier children are around water, the more likely they will enjoy being in or on the stuff and learn how to enjoy it safely, which is a life-saving skill.There are plenty of ways to introduce your children to water and build their confidence; bathtimes, paddling pools, and splash pools are all fab ways for them to splash, dip and duck. Make sure, however, to always stay with your child when they’re enjoying the water; not only can situations change quickly and become life-threatening for your little one, but an accident can also cause a major setback in confidence.<h3>Swimming Lessons</h3>The first formal stage of learning to dive is learning to swim. With this skill, diving clubs will consider your child joining their club. The simple reason is that diving is dangerous without the confidence and ability to move around in the water, remain buoyant and have the strength to stay safe.&nbsp;Most large towns and all cities will have opportunities for your child to participate in swimming lessons and to work their way through the Swim England Learn to Swim stages 1-7. The lessons can begin when your child reaches age 4 and start by building more independent water confidence, before teaching the strokes and then moving into the finer performance details of stroke and breathing techniques.<h3>Find a Club</h3>The next stage is to find your kids a diving club. This may be possible as a seamless transition at the leisure centre they swim at; however, depending on where you live, you may need to travel a little further afield. You can search diving clubs on the <a href="https://www.swimming.org/diving/find-asa-diving-clubs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Swim England Diving website</a>, <a href="https://scottishswimming.com/find-a-club" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Scottish Swimming</a>, <a href="https://www.swimwales.org/locations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Swim Wales</a>, or <a href="https://swimireland.ie/membership/find-a-club/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Swim Ireland</a>, depending on your location.Once your child begins lessons, they will work through the stages, learn diving safety and techniques to help them improve. They will also have the opportunity to compete in friendly competitions, which is a great experience, especially if they want to progress and reach a high standard.<h3>Progression</h3>Once your child has gotten into the sport, it’ll be hard for them to leave. With clear-cut talent pathways and the excitement and exhilaration of competing, your children can keep going as far as they wish and, if they have what it takes, go all the way to the top and represent the UK at the Olympics. However, to get this far, it all starts with water confidence from a very young age. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/water-blue-summer-swimming-pool-92070/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Markus Spiske</a>

How to Get Kids into Diving

With more and more children wanting to take up BMX racing, it’s no wonder the UK has seen an increase in pump tracks and clubs. The sport has enormous potential for future development, and most importantly, they’ll have incredible fun on the way. If you’re looking to enrol your child, here are 5 of the top BMX clubs in the UK.<h3><a href="https://roystonrockets.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Royston Rockets, Hertfordshire</a></h3>The Royston Rockets in North Hertfordshire is a top club focusing on racing, coaching and socialising. With 40 years under their belt, they know how it’s done and happily take newbies with opportunities to help them progress from club racing to national opportunities. Its popularity draws in families from around the county. It’s an excellent place for your child to progress, and has qualified to be part of the British Cycling’s Club Development Programme known as Go-Ride. However, it’s also just a really fun place to be.<h3><a href="https://bpbmxclub.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Bruntwood Park BMX Club</a></h3>Based in Cheadle, Greater Manchester, Bruntwood Park BMX Club has a lot going on. Run by a group of knowledgeable volunteers, the club holds sessions each Saturday for varying abilities and aims to guide learners through 4 levels, with the highest seeing youngsters competing at a national level. The club is affiliated with the governing body British Cycling and, through the winter, has the opportunity to use the National Indoor Cycling Centre, which is not far away. The club has currently produced 12 National riders and more than 25 competitions for their region.<h3><a href="https://www.birminghambmxclub.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Birmingham BMX Club</a></h3>The Birmingham BMX club started small in 2009 but has grown in every way since. It now has new facilities, fit for European competition and is considered one of the top tracks in the UK. The club is open to new riders and rising talent and will guide them to the top through excellent coaching. Sessions for various ages and stages run through the week and on weekends. They have disability-friendly sessions too.<h3>Cyclopark, Gravesend</h3>The Cyclopark in Northwest Kent is a spectacular site with its 330m standard racing track and seemingly endless opportunities. This is one of the few tracks that is used primarily for coaching and does not have recreational time. The club is geared up to support novices as they take their first pedals around the track, through to elite riders heading off to Europe for top competitions. At specific points in the week, this club offers lessons to adult novices and ladies-only sessions too. With top coaches and excellent facilities, it's a great place to kick-start your child's BMX career.<h3><a href="https://braintreebmx.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Braintree BMX Club, Essex</a></h3>Braintree BMX club is a friendly, sociable club with opportunities for children and adults, from beginners to the very experienced. Children can begin riding aged 4 and above and follow the club development pathway to take talent to the National competition. Coaching is led by a qualified British Cycling Level 2 BMX coach and runs throughout the year.You can search for <a href="https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/clubfinder" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BMX clubs local to you on the British Cycling website</a>.Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@tuqui?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Santiago Pazos Bordon</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/person-riding-bicycle-during-daytime-Jj9dycup6HM?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unsplash</a>

Top 5 BMX Clubs in the UK for Kids

BMX is popular amongst children and teenagers; it’s a sport where they can pick up speed, learn specific skills and impressive tricks, and progress to a top competition level. Recently, BMX has risen in popularity, and now, across the country, there are tracks for children to use recreationally or with a club attached to help learners improve. London has the most clubs to choose from, and here are 5 of the best.<h3>Brixton BMX Racing Club</h3>The BMX race track at Brockwell Park is a hub for activity and for enthusiastic riders of all ages and abilities to practise and, most importantly, enjoy. This is an excellent place for your child to learn the sport and a friendly, welcoming club that oozes nurture and support whilst helping children reach the top. For most of the week, the track is open for free use; however, from 9-1 at the weekends, it closes for specific training sessions divided into novices, intermediates and experts, and a qualified British Cycling coach teaches the groups.<h3>Tottenham BMX Club</h3>The Tottenham BMX race club is a great place for children 7+ through to young adults to meet and learn their sport. Based at the Lordship Rec Loop pump track, riders can attend an age-appropriate coached class or join in a freestyle session open to all ages and abilities, with help on hand to give tips and advice to help kids improve.<h3>Hackney BMX Club</h3>Located in Haggerston Park, East London, Hackney BMX club is an incredible track with incredible opportunities. The club is run by excellent volunteers who lead sessions for all abilities and ages. They have the commitment to nurture and develop talent who want to either continue at a recreational level or progress to racing regionally and nationally. This club also stands out for its work in helping children and families enter a sport with a focus that otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity.<h3>Peckham BMX Club</h3>Based in Southwark, The BMX Track, London is home to Peckham BMX club and has it sussed to support all learning from youngsters on balance bikes through to an intermediate level. Most training lessons take place on a Sunday, but dotted throughout the week are organised Rock up and Ride sessions; although for this, riders do not need to book or pay, they must have track accreditation. All sessions are run by a trained professional, and riders can get race-ready with the chance to practise using a start gate.<h3>Lee Valley Velopark</h3>Lee Valley Velopark, at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, is the British home of all things cycling. The BMX track is near the velodrome where Sir Chris Hoy won Olympic golds and welcomes children aged 7 and above to their hour-long weekly training sessions. This club will help your child to gain confidence and learn specific skills. They also run taster sessions, which is a great place to start, and day-long holiday activities. Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@bmatangelo?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brian Matangelo</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-black-jacket-riding-bicycle-during-daytime-OvaIND9oCTY?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unsplash</a>

Details of the top 5 BMX clubs in London that children can join, including Brixton, Tottenham, Hackney, Peckham and Lee Valley.

Top 5 BMX Clubs in London for Kids

You can ask the question: why do kids love BMX? However, it might be more fitting to ask, why wouldn’t kids love BMX?&nbsp;&nbsp;BMX is a relatively new sport, which began in the 1970s in California. The acronym stands for bicycle motor cross and evolved from spectators emulating motocross on their bikes when they started racing around dirt tracks. It then made its way to the UK in the 1980s, with the first club opening in Ipswich. Since then, BMX has grown in strength, with every city and many large towns having a pump track and a club to help children progress. However, if your child has shown an interest, and you’re not sure why, here are the 5 top reasons they love it.<h3>It’s Fun</h3>There’s no doubt about it; BMXing is incredibly fun. When they have developed enough skill and stamina, your child will be speeding around the track, whizzing around corners and flying over moguls - literally. However, even if they want to take it at a more sedate speed, they’ll feel the satisfaction and achievement of completing the circuit.<h3>It’ll make them feel good</h3>BMX is a sport similar to others, and when they ride, they’ll increase their heart rate and strengthen their muscles, leaving your child feeling energised and happy. Racing around a track is excellent for their general physical and mental health, and it will also likely improve sleep and concentration, meaning school might not be a challenge. BMX is also great for your child’s posture, helping build strength for standing tall.<h3>They can improve</h3>BMX is a sport with a clear pathway to the top. It is well-watched and, since 2008, has had a firm place at the Summer Olympics. The national governing body British Cycling has levels that many clubs follow to guide young riders in the right direction, plus a clear talent development pathway that will elevate your child to national standards. Most clubs also make the most of competitive opportunities, such as in-house races, inter-club, regional or national.&nbsp;<h3>It’s social</h3>BMX is social for two reasons; firstly, when they visit a pump track, they’ll probably go with friends or meet people there. Secondly, if they join a club, they become a part of that community and have the camaraderie you can only develop with like-minded people you spend a lot of time with. These have the potential to become lifelong friends who will support each other at competitions. Being part of any club is great and will build your child’s sense of community and BMX.<h3>It’s for everyone</h3>The great thing about BMX is that it’s inclusive, and you don’t necessarily need to be a specific build to be good at it. Your child can make it far with sheer determination, hard work, and excellent coaching. It’s also a sport they can continue in their own time because most pump tracks have recreational time so their friends can join, or you could go as a family. Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@varietou?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jules D.</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/two-person-doing-bmx-tricks-VuW4GDk8SyE?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unsplash</a>

Simply put, kids love BMX cycling because it's fun and exciting. They can also meet new friends and have a sense of achievement.

Why do Kids Love BMX?

Since the 1980s, BMX racing in the UK has really taken off. With its humble Californian beginnings when riders began racing around dirt tracks with bicycles instead of motorcycles, BMX racing is now huge. Its popularity is reflected in its firm place at the summer Olympics and the numerous other national and international championships.In the UK today, you’ll unlikely find a town without a pump track and BMX club, which is great for boosting your child into the sport and learning more about how they can progress. However, in the beginning, your child may just want to play around at a pump track without guidance and see if it's for them.Like all sports, BMX is governed nationally and internationally, and both cover all the cycling categories. Here is a quick guide to each, their role and what they can do for your child.<h3>The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI)</h3>The UCI is the international governing body for all things cycling globally. The UCI are responsible for watching over the sport, creating and maintaining the rules and resolving issues within the sport. Their headquarters is in Paris, France, and they organise most of the top BMX events, such as the BMX World Championships. They represent and support every cycling discipline at the Olympics, Paralympics and Youth Olympics.&nbsp;The Union Cycliste Internationale also has a fundamental responsibility to ensure the inclusivity of the sport and that opportunities are available for all athletes, no matter their circumstances. To support this, the UCI has a top training centre where, each year, 300 promising riders, irrespective of their background, are invited to attend courses in their cycling discipline.&nbsp;As well as ensuring the smooth running of all things cycling at a top level, they also promote and push for people to take up cycling as a recreational activity and encourage them to use it for travel. Their motto, Cycling For All, has created awareness for the global population about the positive links between cycling and the climate.<h3>British Cycling</h3>British Cycling is the governing body for all things cycling in the UK. It is their job to watch over the sport and ensure everything in Great Britain runs smoothly and fairly and is inclusive to the nation. They support regional clubs and schools to promote and inspire newcomers to the sport at a grassroots level and organise and support competitions. Their website contains information about the sport, things your child will need, advice and ways to get your child into the sport. The governing body is also your port of call if something within your region or club isn't working as it should, and they will support you in resolving the issue.British Cycling is always looking out for rising talent and juniors with what it takes to represent the country in BMX. For those that are, British Cycling will support the process and progression pathway to help their journey with top coaches and, in terms of physical and mental training, to become a professional BMX racer. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-on-a-bmx-bicycle-5145889/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Martin Magnemyr</a>

Governing Body for BMX Cycling

Because BMX racing is so fast and furious, organisers and adjudicators can only tolerate people who stick to the rules. Not following them could jeopardise the rider's BMX tournament and, if they continued, could affect their entire career. When it comes to BMX, knowing the sport inside out will also work in your child's favour to keep them safe and in the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rules are not exhaustive, or over the top because, quite simply, the fastest racer wins; however, they are essential. Learning the rules and regulations in their entirety is achieved by joining a club and learning from coaches with other riders around you; however, here are a few to get you started.<h3>Protection</h3>The first rule of BMX is wearing a helmet and other protective clothing. This is because if riders fly off their bike, they will remain in one piece with only bumps and bruises. Helmets must be in excellent condition and have not been in a previous accident. It’s also a great idea to wear knee, elbow and shin pads that are flexible, allow movement, and add an extra layer of protection. Most BMX clubs won’t allow riders to train or compete without protective clothing.<h3>2- 3 Phases of racing</h3>BMX races are split into 3 phases to reach an overall winner. The first is the heats, also called moto, which is like a time trial to determine their level and who they will race against next. Following this, the qualification round consists of races with quarter-finals and semi-finals and is where some riders will leave the competition because others rode faster. Finally, there is the final, where the fastest riders battle it out to win overall. The winner of this race will win gold.<h3>Obey the track</h3>When the riders take to the tracks, one of the most significant rules, so there isn’t a crash of bikes, is that riders must stick to the path assigned to them at the beginning of the race. Although something unexpected may sometimes take a rider off their track, they cannot, at any cost, purposefully veer into another rider's lane or obstruct their race because the consequences could be catastrophic. Lanes are allocated randomly and likely to change each time they take to the track.&nbsp;<h3>Have a licence</h3>To take part in any competitive BMX race, your child will need to have a licence along with their membership. For juniors up to 16, the licence must be obtained but is free, and then from 16, you’ll need to pay a small fee for the year. Once they have a licence, they can earn points or gain a national ranking.<h3>Sportsmanship</h3>Riders should follow good sportsmanship in BMX racing at all times. This means they must respect and ride fairly alongside everybody in the event. Unsportsmanlike behaviour, including offensive or foul language, is not tolerated, and in all instances, the panel will decide the outcome and whether the rider can continue in the tournament. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-riding-his-mountain-bike-1010547/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Darcy Lawrey</a>

BMX Cycling and Racing for Kids: Rules Explained

Though curling is classed as a winter sport, with the competition seasons running from roughly September to April, the use of inside ice rinks means players can keep up their practice through the year. In the UK there are many ice rinks that host curling. Some have dedicated curling rinks, whereas others use a shared rink for a variety of ice sports. Many of these rinks have clubs attached, whereas other clubs hire out shared rinks for their own use.&nbsp;The age at which players can join, and the capacity for a club to take on new players, will vary from club to club, and will sometimes change depending on the season. It's therefore always a good idea to get in touch with the club directly to ask some of these questions.Below are some of the best curling clubs in the country. This isn’t an exhaustive list, and you’ll find more near you by visiting the homepages of <a href="https://www.scottishcurling.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Scottish Curling</a>, The <a href="https://www.curlingengland.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">English Curling Association</a> and The <a href="https://www.welshcurling.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Welsh Curling Association</a>. It’s worth noting that the opportunities for joining a club will vary a lot depending on where you are in the country. For example, Scotland has over one hundred clubs, whereas there are none in neither Ireland nor Northern Ireland.<h3>South of England Curling Club - Fenton’s Ice Rink, Kent</h3>This is a well-established club that’s always open to taking on new members and running fun and exciting events to help people get a taste of what the sport is like. The club runs its own leagues and competitions - “bonspiels”, which are tournaments over a few days at a weekend, and “funspiels”, which are quicker, more laid back competitions - meaning that players can really get stuck in and enjoy the sport from the get-go. <h3><a href="https://prestoncurling.club/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(67, 67, 67);">Preston Curling Club</a> - Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre, Lancashire</h3>Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre has a dedicated curling rink which is used by Preston Curling Club. This club has been around for over 100 years and shows no signs of slowing down. It’s open to old and young, experienced and novice, and has a real sense of community at its core. Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre runs a variety of coaching courses and lessons, and it's a prerequisite for joining the club that you complete at least the Beginners Curling Coaching Course. <h3>The Royal Caledonian Curling Club (RCCC)</h3>This isn’t so much a club as a governing body. With so many curling clubs in Scotland, The RCCC works as a centre point for members of the hundreds of clubs in the country, meaning that this is a good place to go if you want to find a club near you, enrol in a course, become a member, or find a taster session. <h3>Greenacres Curling Club - Howwood, near Glasgow</h3>Again, this is more of a hub for smaller clubs that use the club’s rink to practise and enter competitions. Anyone can become a member, with the club open to junior, ladies, men, and mixed categories. You can book one-on-one and small group coaching sessions, join clubs and take part in competitions (bonspiels). The club hosts many events and certainly makes new members feel welcome. <h3>Welsh Curling, Queensferry</h3>Sadly, the opportunities to join a curling team in Wales are few and far between, but there are plenty of eager curlers across the country who do their best to provide the opportunity to others. Welsh Curling is an association that has in the past met at the Deeside Leisure Centre in North Wales. Since the pandemic, the club has struggled to find a permanent rink, but it’s worth keeping an eye on their website to see if they manage to return to the area. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/crop-curlers-connecting-brooms-on-floor-7544477/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by SHVETS production</a>

Top 5 Curling Clubs in the UK

Curling is a sport for everybody. It’s easy to understand the rules, and it’s fun to play - just as long as you don’t mind getting a bit cold!<h3>What’s curling?</h3>If you’ve ever watched the Winter Olympics, then you’ve probably seen curling. It’s an amazing thing to watch. Players slide a large, round rock (called a “stone”) down a length of ice with the aim of getting it to come to a stop in the centre of a target. As the stone slides along, two other players sweep the ice furiously to help it on its way.<h3>The setup of the game</h3>The game is played on a 150-foot long course called the “ice”. At one end of the ice is a line called a teeline, which is the point players need to release their stone (a bit like ten-pin bowling). At the far end of the ice, a target is painted on the floor. This is called the “house”. A match has two teams of four players, who take it in turns to slide their stones from the teeline to the house.<h3>Ends</h3>A game of curling is broken down into ends, which are a bit like innings in cricket, sets in tennis, or quarters in basketball. Each game has ten ends. During an end, each player in a team throws two stones down the ice. Stones aren’t removed from the ice during an end, meaning players can try to knock opponents’ stones off the ice, or knock their own stones closer to the centre of the house.<h3>Throwing and sweeping</h3>Every player takes a turn throwing stones down the ice.&nbsp;When players aren’t throwing, they might be sweeping. Sweepers slide along the ice next to the stone with large special brushes. As the stone glides along, they brush the ice in its path in order to warm it up and make it more slippery. This helps guide the stone along. In fact, that’s where the name “curling” comes from: sweep the ice just right and you can actually make the stone travel in a curve - very helpful if you’re trying to get your stone behind your opponent’s and into the centre of the house!<h3>Scoring</h3>The house is like a bullseye. There’s a small inner ring, and a large outer ring. The winner of an end will be the team who has thrown one of their stones closest to the centre of the rings. The team who wins the most ends will win the match.<h3>Strategy</h3>It takes strategy to win a game of curling. Because the teams take it in turns to throw their stones, it means that even if one team gets theirs near the centre of the house, it might not be long until the opponent knocks it out of the way with a throw of their own. It’s for this reason that players have to watch the game closely and advise each other what to do. It’s also the reason that the sweepers need to curl their stones in and out of the other ones already resting on the ice.<h3>Making friends</h3>Tradition and fair play are integral parts of curling. Players must respect one another and opposing teams must always play politely and fairly. In fact, tradition says that you must always socialise with your opponent before and after a game! <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-curling-hall-7561413/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by SHVETS production</a>

An overview of the rules of curling for children, including scoring, strategy, setup and ends.

Curling Rules Explained For Kids

Children can take up curling at any age. It’s easy to adapt the sport for any age or physicality, meaning it has universal appeal. Curling is also easy to pick up and relatively simple: to win, slide your stone as close to the centre of a target as you can. It’s as easy as that!<h3>Strategy alongside skill</h3>Curling is sometimes called “chess on ice”. It requires a bit of thinking to win. In fact, there’s a lot more to it than simply throwing your stones down the sheet (the name for the space on which a game of curling is played) as fast as you can. Teams and players need to consider where their rocks will end up, speed and angles, where the next team might play, and how to strategically place the other rocks on the sheet. There’s a quick learning curve to grasping the tactics though. It doesn’t take long to pick up the basics, and children love to explore and learn this side of the game.<h3>An enthusiastic yet supportive atmosphere</h3>A game of curling is a place for shouting. Players in a curling team will bellow instructions at one another across the sheet. Curlers are passionate and it makes for a fun and dynamic atmosphere. Curlers are also some of the most respectful athletes out there. In fact, tradition dictates that you socialise with your opponent both before and after a match. So while curling gives a physical workout, it also provides something a little deeper: a chance to connect and be part of a friendly team. This makes the sport very enticing for children.<h3>Open for all</h3>Players can take up curling at any stage of life. It’s common to find curling teams made up of every generation. The style of the sport means that age doesn’t necessarily give an advantage, and neither does physical fitness. While there obviously is a certain level of fitness that players will need, you don’t need to be an elite athlete to play. This makes it very accessible, and the sport draws a colourful variety of players. Children love to meet and be around others, and the chance to play alongside not only other children but adults as well contributes to what makes the sport fun for them.<h3>Curling at the Olympics and other competitions</h3>Curling is always one of the winter sports that captivates viewers of all ages. It’s easy to follow along, and it's fun to watch the curlers throwing their stones while the sweepers brush furiously either side. Curling is regularly one of the most popular sports at the Olympics, with matches regularly commanding some of the biggest viewerships.<h3>New Age Kurling</h3>Many schools and children’s organisations are now integrating a form of curling into their PE sessions and after-school provision. This tends to be New Age Kurling, which is based on the traditional sport of curling but is played on a hard surface, such as a sports hall, using special weighted stones that are adapted for use on dry surfaces. Again, the inclusive, accessible nature of curling is one of the reasons that many schools and youth clubs incorporate it into what they do, and it means that a surprising number of children these days have given it a go. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/team-playing-curling-on-ice-sheet-7544386/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by SHVETS production</a>

Curling is a fun, strategic sport, which can be played by a variety of ages and is very social.

Why Kids Love Curling

Curling is a sport that relies on precision and care and is also physically demanding. The main aim of the game is to slide a stone down a path of ice so that it comes to a stop as close to the centre of a bullseye as possible. In addition to the person sliding the stone, there are two players whose job it is to sweep the ice in such a way to influence the path of the stone (ideally, curling it into the centre of the ice), and one standing at the end of the course, dictating strategy.<h3>Playing the stones - arm and wrist strength</h3>Each player must play two stones in each “end” (the curling terms for “innings” or “set”). This is the element of the sport that requires precision. When playing a stone, players slide forward, bending close to the ice and gripping the handle of the stone, before letting it go when they reach the tee line in such a way as to hopefully get it close to the target. The stones are heavy. They weigh between 17.24kg and 19.96kg. Strong forearms and wrists are important here, as players need to not only be comfortable handling this weight, but to do so in such a way as to fully maximise the potential of winning the game.<h3>Sweeping - strong legs</h3>Two players in the team will act as sweeper. These positions are the most famous; they’re the ones children see on TV and become captivated by. The sweepers use special brushes to sweep the ice, which causes a slipstream of water to carry the stone along further and in a new direction (hence “curling”). It’s very difficult. Players need to slide sideways across the ice, matching the speed of the stone, and sweep vigorously as they do. The position in which they stand, and the direction of travel, puts a lot of strain on the legs, particularly the quads and calves. A lot of the exercises and workouts you can do for skiing transfer well to developing strong legs for curling.<h3>General stamina - fast-burst exercise</h3>Players need a lot of stamina. For starters, they’ll be exerting themselves over the course of a game that can last up to 3 hours (depending on the age and experience level). What’s more, curling involves a lot of hard, short-burst activity. As mentioned, sweepers are required to be vigorous with their brush before easing off and waiting to try again.<h3>Strong knees</h3>Because of the unique way of moving on the ice - sidewards, facing in - sweepers have to take care to strengthen their knees, as these joints will take most of the stress and strain. In addition to this, players need strong legs in order to maintain position and make sure they are putting the right high level of power into the sweeping. When playing stones, curlers need to crouch close to the ice, putting quite a lot of strain on their knees and ankles.<h3>Coordination</h3>Coordination is vital. As mentioned, the players - especially sweepers - need to move along the ice with their legs whilst also sweeping vigorously with their arms. They also need good spatial awareness, as there are penalties for players running into or knocking stones, even if it’s an accident. Additionally, those playing the stones need to coordinate the release of their throw and make sure they’re approaching their run at the correct angle. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/determined-woman-throwing-curling-stone-7544374/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by SHVETS production</a>

Curling is a sport which requires a surprising amount of strength and stamina, including arm and wrist strength and strong legs.

Which Physical Qualities do Children Need for Curling?

Curling is a popular sport among children, for a variety of reasons. It’s relatively easy to play, requires just enough strategy to make it engaging, can be enjoyed by all regardless of age, experience and physicality, and is safe. It’s also gaining in popularity, with curling and its other forms (particularly New Age Kurling) becoming regular fixtures in schools and youth clubs’ programmes.If your child really enjoys curling, and wants to pursue it seriously, then they’ve perhaps set their sights on joining the national team. It’s one of the most popular winter sports - a mainstay of the Olympics with one of the biggest viewerships of any sport. So how can children get to where they’re throwing rocks across the ice for their country?&nbsp;<h3>Joining a club</h3>Depending on where you are in the country, there are many curling clubs your child can join. The good news is that all clubs are really welcoming, and always take on children of any age. Some clubs require children to complete a short course before joining, or to complete one-to-one training sessions, whereas others are happy to take children as complete novices. The bad news is that there is a huge disparity in where the clubs are located. Scotland, for example, has hundreds of curling clubs. Wales and Northern Ireland, on the other hand, have zero. Sadly, whether your child can easily take up curling will depend on where you live. All is not lost, though. There are many people in the under-represented countries looking to establish curling clubs, so if your child is really passionate, get in touch with the local association to see what you can do to help.<h3>Forming a team and entering competitions</h3>Rather than taking on individual players, national curling associations open applications to teams. So it will be a good idea for children to begin thinking about which other players they play well with and with whom they make a good team. Once children feel as though they have found a good team, it’s vital that they start to experience competitions. Competitions can be found by visiting the British Curling website or talking to the people running your local club. Entering competitions will give children good experience, but is also a prerequisite for selection into the Olympics.<h3>Olympics selection process</h3>There is room for a few teams to go to the Olympics to represent their country. There isn’t just one. Teams will be selected based on their performance in a variety of competitions. The selection panel for the Olympics will consider the teams’ results in competitions over the two or three years running up to the Olympics. They’ll also consider the teams’ recent track records against opponents and will assess a team against British Curling’s “What It Takes To Win Model”.<h3>What It Takes To Win Model (WITTW)</h3>This is the keystone that Olympics selection committees will measure teams against when making a decision whether they can go to the Olympics. Essentially, it’s an assessment check-list of a variety of factors that are deemed to make a good curling team. It can be a good idea for children to be aware of this and familiarise themselves with the model. If they understand what the professional bodies consider makes up a successful Olympic team, then they can strive to make sure they are well-developed in these areas. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/red-and-blue-handled-curling-stones-placed-on-house-7544300/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by SHVETS production</a>

The process of getting to the Winter Olympics in curling, for children in the UK, from joining a club to getting selected.

How can my Children Progress to the Olympics for Curling?

Slalom canoeing is a demanding sport.&nbsp; It takes strength, stamina and courage to complete a course and encouraging children to head down a slalom canoe course before they’re ready could be dangerous. Although it’s worth waiting a little while before investing specifically in this branch of canoeing, your child can have plenty of fun on the water beforehand to build their confidence and muscle power that will put them in good stead for when they’re ready for a slalom canoeing club.Here is a rough guide of what you can do with your children at certain ages to prepare them for and then introduce them to the fantastic sport of slalom canoeing.<h3>3-6 Years</h3>It’s never too early to take your child out on a canoe or kayak. The love for water often develops over time, and if they experience the sensations and emotions linked to the sport from a young age, they’re more likely to love it as they get older.&nbsp;Of course, at this stage, they will be with you on the canoe, and you will be paddling because, when they’re this young age, they will not have the size, strength, or coordination to make it happen; however, they can place their hands on your arms and feel the motion and pattern of moving the paddle. Taking a young child out is perfectly safe if you take appropriate precautions, such as ensuring everybody on board is wearing a safety jacket, the water is calm, and somebody else knows you have gone out onto the water.Another great sport to develop the skills they’ll need is swimming. Taking your child to lessons will build strength and water confidence in preparation for the rapids.&nbsp;<h3>7-9 Years</h3>At around the age of 7, and especially if your child has been taking regular swimming lessons, they may be ready to head out on a kayak alone, with close adult supervision, or join a flatwater canoe club. They should be able to paddle independently and, over time, will improve in skill because they have had the time to explore it in a fun environment.&nbsp;<h3>Age 9 and above</h3>At the age of 9, children have developed physically and have reached the maturity to begin training at a local slalom canoe club, and this is the age at which most will accept juniors. At this stage, they will start on flat water to ensure they are ready and safe before gradually introducing them to a slalom course.&nbsp;Even from 9, it’ll take a while for your child to get used to slalom canoeing. It’ll take time to learn the skills involved in the sport and be able to successfully manoeuvre themselves through gates and from one side of the course to the other. Children also cannot compete until they are around this age because they won’t have the time to improve.However, once they do get the hang of it, and if they find a love for it, and with regular training, they will fly at the sport very quickly and maybe progress through the talent pathway to train and compete at higher levels. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-riding-red-canoe-boat-2851064/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Roland Chanson</a>

Slalom canoeing is a fast, demanding sport, so it's best to introduce younger children to canoeing gradually, then they can try slalom once they're around nine years old.

What Age can my Children do Slalom Canoeing?

If you’ve never thought about slalom canoeing for your child before, now might be the time, especially if they’re fun-loving and thrill-seeking and have the disposition to take on a challenge that requires dedication, perseverance and endurance. However, although it’s a challenging sport to learn, it’s great fun, and the kind of sport your child will fall in love with and continue practising for life. So if you’re unsure why kids love it so much, read, and you’ll soon understand. <h3>It’s fast</h3>Kids are often wired differently from adults, and their need to take risks and feel the buzz of adrenaline is much higher. Although this is completely normal behaviour, it often doesn't make it easier as parents when we see our children taking part in extreme sports or activities. Luckily, slalom canoeing, although intense, is very safe and the perfect way for your child to feel the speed and adrenaline. <h3>They can progress</h3>Slalom canoeing can be as much for your child as they want it to be. They can attend purely for fun or sessions once a week to learn new skills and keep fit. However, there is the option to progress, and the organisational body British Canoe has a very clear pathway for rising talent to help them make it to the top. There is always the chance they could become an Olympic champion! <h3>It’s sociable</h3>Paddleboarding centres are hubs of activity, and within a club, there’ll be lots of other like-minded juniors to meet and make friends with. Classes will be fun and friendly, alongside plenty of hard work, so that your child will leave their session feeling exercised and socialised. Within slalom canoeing, there are different categories for training and competing. While some are individual, some are team events, where you’ll need a partner you can work closely with and build an excellent friendship with to succeed. <h3>They’ll feel great</h3>Taking part in a sport with dedication and commitment is full of ups and downs. They will have gruelling sessions that take their toll on the mind and body, but they’ll also have sessions where they finally achieve something they’ve been trying for a long time. This will bring them to the top of the world, and their sense of accomplishment will be through the roof. Although, whatever happens within a session surrounding their skill progress, they will have had an excellent physical workout. Whether or not they did well, they will have endorphins streaming around their body that will make them feel good and help them cope with anything not quite going their way.&nbsp; <h3>It’s so fun</h3>And, of course, with everything mentioned above, the most crucial aspect of all is that it’s super fun, so why wouldn't your child want to take part? When they’re in a situation where they can make friends, learn an amazing set of new, transferable skills, and achieve something that many others do, it’ll build further confidence and ultimately lead to happiness.&nbsp;

Children love slalom canoeing because it's fast, exhilarating fun and they can make friends and progress in the sport.

Why Kids Love Slalom Canoeing

The choice of sports available to your child is vast. However, children are often suited to different sports and hobbies depending on their interests, physical ability and personality type. Slalom canoeing is no exception, and although it will be the perfect fit for many, it might be another child’s worst nightmare.So, if your child is interested in slalom canoeing and wants to take it to the next stage and join a club, here are some of the skills and attributes they will need to succeed.<h3>Courage</h3>Racing down a slalom canoe course is no mean feat, and being faced with choppy water when you’re in a little canoe can be frightening, especially to begin with. This means your child needs courage by the bucketload to succeed in this sport, even giving it a go. As they progress and become used to the courses, they’ll feel more at ease; however, competitions will bring new courses requiring even more courage. <h3>Quick Reaction Times</h3>Slalom canoeing is quick, and it’s not a sport they can take easy or light-heartedly. Whenever your child is on a course, they need to be firing all cylinders to react to the water and the course to ensure they complete it correctly and accurately, and if they want to be in with a chance of winning, achieve their fastest time. <h3>Perseverance</h3>Developing your fitness to the levels needed to be successful at slalom canoeing takes dedication and perseverance. If your child wants to pursue the sport seriously, they’ll need to train in and out of the water, and often it won’t be fun. However, without the perseverance to train hard and not give up, there’s no way they can make it down and up a course to reach the gates in the way they would want to and progress as a slalom canoeist. <h3>Listening</h3>To be a great slalom canoeist, your child must be great at listening and taking on board feedback, including constructive criticism. Learning to take onboard feedback is a fantastic skill, and the sooner they can use it to improve and not let it bring them down, the easier they will find many aspects of life. The only way they can progress in their technique is with paddling, steering and the hints, tips and tricks to achieve what they haven’t yet been able to. <h3>Accuracy</h3>Linking closely to technique is accuracy because your child will not have the accuracy if they don’t learn the skills and strength. Also, without it, they will struggle to succeed because they need to be precise in the canoe’s positions to make it down the course and avoid touching the gates and incurring penalties. <h3>Endurance</h3>Every child is predisposed towards specific attributes, which include endurance; however, a child can also develop endurance through hard work and perseverance.&nbsp; Endurance is being able to continue even when the task is super hard, and unpleasant, which often slalom canoeing is. However, unless they can see past the hard work to the finish, they’ll unlikely succeed either as a hobby or to progress.

If your child has lots of courage, fast reaction times, endurance and perseverance, slalom canoeing might be a good sport for them to try.

What Skills and Attributes do you Need for Slalom Canoeing?

Slalom canoeing is fast, extreme and very fun.&nbsp; It takes great skills and concentration and will open doors for your child. Many children and adults take up slalom canoeing for the joy of it, as a hobby to meet new people and get a buzz from the adrenaline released whilst on the course. However, others want to take the sport further, and luckily, British Canoe, the UK’s organisational body, has the pathway for talent all planned out. <a href="https://paddleuk.org.uk/england-talent-slalom/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Their website has a wealth of information</a>, but if your child is serious about the sport, here is their route to success.<h3>Local Clubs</h3>The first step into the sport will always be a local club. Depending on where you live, this may be easier said than done because of the need for a specialist natural or artificial facility. You can <a href="https://gopaddling.info/find-local-paddling-centres/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">check via the British Canoe website, where your nearest centre is</a>.&nbsp;Local clubs are for beginners and rising talent. They will get your child off the ground and teach them as much as possible. Here they will get a taste for what slalom canoeing is really about, whether they want to pursue it, and they provide opportunities for friendly, regional competitions.<h3>Regional Development School</h3>The next stop is the regional development school that supports club development but at a higher stage. The maximum age for this is 14, and your child will be expected to train for 10 hours a week and attend 1 slalom camp per month. It’s a great taste of the commitment needed to make it to the top.<h3>Regional Development Squad</h3>If your child shows exceptional talent, they may be selected to train as part of the Regional Development Squad, open to children aged 12-15 (J14–16) with enough spaces for 16 per region. They will receive training from top coaches and prepare them for the English National Talent Squad (ENTS). This is a chance for your child to hone their skills and begin competing in some top competitions for their age categories.<h3>English National Talent Squad (ENTS)</h3>If your child makes it onto the ENTS, they are really getting somewhere. For youths aged 16-22, it is a chance for overall improvement physically and mentally and to become a top competing performer. The main goal for children training in the ENTS is to support them to be ready for team GB. At this stage, your child will also begin competing at top global competitions.<h3>Team GB</h3>If your child makes it through to team GB, they truly have made it and will have the opportunity, or the reality, of representing the United Kingdom at the Olympics. At this point, they are at the top of their game, potentially the best in the country and one of the best in the world. It takes serious commitment, dedication and training, but to reach this point is an achievement beyond comparison, and they will be the best athlete they could possibly be. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-riding-on-boat-2291812/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Brett Sayles</a>

The route to the top in Slalom Canoeing in the UK - from joining a local club to making it to TeamGB!

What is the Organisational Set Up for Slalom Canoeing in the UK?

Young children should have the opportunity to try lots of sports and hobbies. It will help them decide which they favour, which they don’t have an interest in, and which they want to pursue. It will also help you see what they may have an underlying natural ability for, with the potential to progress to a level they are comfortable with. If your child loves the water and needs speed, it might be worth checking out slalom canoeing. It's not always an obvious choice, but it's a great one. To find out whether there is a club near you, visit <a href="https://paddleuk.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Paddle UK</a>, the governing body; their website can provide a lot of information about the sport.So, if you’re interested, read on to find out what the sport involves and why it’s great for your kids.<h3>What is slalom canoeing?</h3>Slalom canoeing, previously known as whitewater slalom, is a fast-paced sport seen at the Olympics. It originated in Switzerland as an alternative to skiing once the snow and ice started to melt and cascade from the mountains.&nbsp;The aim of the sport is to manoeuvre yourself as quickly as you can down a section, often around 300m, of water rapids as quickly as possible. Athletes will start at the top at a large set of gates, and then along the way, they must go through a series of numbered gates; most are downstream; however, a proportion of them are upstream. This means the canoeist must paddle against the water flow to reach the gate before heading back downstream to the next. The downstream gates are often placed in difficult-to-reach areas or on opposite sides of the course to add an extra challenge.&nbsp;The winners are the athletes who can make it to the end of the course in the quickest time, taking into account any penalties they have incurred for either missing a gate, knocking the canoe into the gate or going the wrong way through one.<h3>Why is it great for kids?</h3>Great for health and fitnessFor a child, practising slalom canoeing once or twice a week will improve their physical fitness and strength exponentially, and to succeed on a downhill course, they must have great fitness levels. They’ll also gain excellent arm, shoulder and core strength. Otherwise, it simply won't be possible, and the fitter they are, the better they’ll be able to perform. It’s socialAny club your child attends where they’re mixing with others is terrific for socialising and making new friends outside the comfort of their school. Meeting new people and finding common ground is an excellent skill and will help them build self-confidence. It’s exhilaratingSome children love the buzz of adrenaline racing through their veins, and if you have such a child, this is perfect. It’s quick, and they must respond quickly to unpredictable waters. It’ll have their pulse racing in a safe and supportive environment. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-men-in-kayak-1682744/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by eMiL rAjAn</a>

Slalom canoeing is a great sport for adventurous children who love water and speed. Find out more about it and why it's great for kids.

What is Slalom Canoeing, and Why is it Great for Kids?

Find out the best judo throws kids should learn in the UK.

Best Judo Throws for Kids in the UK

Explore the history of judo and why its philosophy makes it a great sport for children and young people.

Empowering Young Warriors: A Look into the History of Judo for Kids

Do your kids love adventure and crave excitement? Check out this list of the top activities to try this summer.<h3>Quadbiking Adventures</h3>Do you want to show your kids that real life can be as exciting as gaming online? Take them for the ride of their young lives with an adventure-filled day of quad biking that will have them firing on all cylinders!There are venues across the UK that offer experience days for kids as young as six years old. These days include safety equipment, full instruction from a qualified expert, and a fun ride out in the surrounding area.If you think this may be a good activity for you and your family, <a href="https://www.intotheblue.co.uk/driving-experiences/for-kids/junior-quad-biking/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">search online for your nearest quadbiking adventure.</a><h3>Climbing Adventures</h3>Turn your back for a moment, and your toddler or young child is up a tree, over the stair gate, and at the top of the highest climbing frame! Climbing comes naturally to many children who climb and scramble over just about anything, so take the opportunity to tap into these abilities with a day of adventure while honing sporting skills that will inspire confidence, develop strength, and encourage fitness.&nbsp;Climbing opportunities are available for all-weather days at indoor and outdoor venues supported by expert instructors.Visit purpose-built indoor and outdoor venues and scale fun, novelty towers, and climbing walls for various ability levels, supervised by expert instructors.Are you already a family of confident and competent climbers? There are lots of outdoor climbing experiences for the whole family to enjoy together. Options include bouldering, mountaineering skills, multi-pitch climbing, and more.<h3>Mountainbiking Adventures</h3>Mountain biking is one of the more accessible family adventures for all ages and abilities. As long as you can ride a bike and have ready access to one, either owned, borrowed or hired, then get on it and go! It’s as simple as that.Mountain biking with the kids takes many forms.Cycle for free along the miles of the National Cycle Network across the UK - <a href="https://hoop.co.uk/articles/sport/cycling/5-family-friendly-cycle-routes-in-england/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">check out our article about the best family-friendly cycle routes in England</a>.If you prefer something a little more challenging, you can try your skills out on some of the <a href="https://www.mbr.co.uk/mountain-bike-routes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">best mountain bike routes in the UK</a>.Don’t mind paying? Head to one of the <a href="https://www.mbr.co.uk/news/5-amazing-new-uk-trails-and-bike-parks-to-tempt-you-in-2024-435356" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">bike parks</a> for purpose-built jumps, ramps and downhill challenges catering for all abilities, from absolute beginner to complete adrenaline junkie!If you’re really passionate about mountain biking, you can even book a course to improve your jumping, drop-offs, and/or downhill skills!<h3>Tree Surfing Adventures</h3>If your kids thirst for adventure and have a head for heights, take them for a day out at one of the treetop challenges in parks around the country. Activities cater for all age groups, with very young children usually requiring direct supervision by a parent or guardian. Climb, balance, zip and swing on obstacles crossing from treetop to treetop, and admire the views and wildlife from high among the trees.Safety is a top priority at these venues, so you will be given prior instruction in using climbing harnesses and clips, and expert guides will be on hand.There are age limits and restrictions on group numbers, so it’s worth checking at your chosen venue before booking! <h3>Wild Camping Adventures</h3>Desperate to get the kids away from their mobile phones and game consoles?Fed up with the daily grind of modern life?Tired of hearing how bored the kids are?Why not take the family on a wild camping adventure and leave it all behind?<a href="https://www.netmums.com/life/wild-camping/3-why-go-wild-camping-with-kids" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Wild camping</a> is a ‘back-to-basics’ experience pitching your tent (legally) wherever you want to without the modern facilities a typical campsite provides. No showers? Check.No toilets? Check.No electric hook-up? Check.No kitchen/cooking facilities? Check.Wild camping is legal in Scotland and parts of Dartmoor in the UK, but there are plenty of opportunities throughout the rest of Europe. <a href="https://hoop.co.uk/articles/holidays/camping/can-kids-camp-for-free-in-uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">There are also camp sites which offer a similar experience.</a>With a bit of advance planning, preparation, and the appropriate kit, you and your family can escape real life for a while and rediscover those family bonds.<h3>Conclusion</h3>Adventure isn’t for everyone, but if you’re after a bit of excitement and quality family time, then there’s plenty available in the UK for those who do.<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-people-riding-bicycle-733741/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Darcy Lawrey</a>

Summer adventures for families with children in the UK, including quadbiking, climbing, mountain biking and more.

5 Best Kids' Summer Adventures

For a family looking for activities during the summer months, a park is an ideal space to burn energy, let off steam and generally have fun together, whether it be a country park, a play park, a zoological or safari park, etc.We’ve listed 5 Top Summer Park Activities for Families to inspire you.<h3>Play Parks/Adventure Parks</h3>First and foremost are the play and adventure parks beloved by children and parents all over the country - if not the world! The play equipment includes, of course, the traditional swings, slides, roundabouts and see-saws, as well as rope swings and ladders, towers, tunnels, zip wires, and much more.Located near most cities, towns, and villages, play and adventure parks are part of free community spaces of all sizes, from very small to vast. Catering to toddlers, school-age children, and teens, play and adventure parks provide many hours of activity—and often, a much-needed break for weary parents!Take a picnic and make a day of it!<h3>Nature Scavengers</h3>Be Nature Detectives! Scavenger hunts are a fun and educational way for families to explore nature together. Most are free, can be completed almost anywhere, can be incorporated into a walk, and can be as long or short as you care to make them.Choose a theme and create your own nature scavenger hunt at one of your local parks. For example, a spring scavenger hunt will find different items from an autumn hunt; a woodland scavenger hunt will differ from a beach hunt.Alternatively, you can check out websites like the <a href="https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2020/01/nature-scavenger-hunts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Woodland Trust</a> or <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/50-things/no.-30-go-on-a-scavenger-hunt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">National Trust</a> for ideas or participate in <a href="https://moors-valley.co.uk/press/the-gruffalo-comes-to-life-at-moors-valley-with-new-augmented-reality-app/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">scavenger hunt events</a> throughout the year at parks nationwide.<h3>Pond Dipping</h3>Why not try pond dipping as part of your scavenger hunt or as a separate summer activity? If you don’t have a garden or village pond in your area, never fear; many country and recreational parks have ponds and lakes teaming with wildlife where you can take the kids to dip and explore. Some even have dedicated areas with accessible wooden dipping platforms and information boards about the wildlife. Search online for free printable factsheets, education packs to enhance the experience, and helpful equipment lists. Make sure you put everything back in the water once you've examined it.Alternatively, kickstart the pond dipping experience with a timetabled activity session led by a knowledgeable guide offered at many parks, particularly over the school holidays.<h3>Boating Lakes</h3>A little more dry-weather dependent than some other park activities, choose a fine day and take the kids for a boat trip on a park boating lake.&nbsp;Different parks offer boats of all shapes and sizes, from traditional rowing boats to pedalos and novelty character boats. Other activities may be available, including special bird food to feed the local swans, geese, and ducks and obstacles such as bridges or islands to navigate.In addition to the famous <a href="https://londonist.com/london/great-outdoors/where-to-go-boating-lakes-rowing-pedalo-hire-london" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">royal parks in London</a>, there are many others nationwide. Search online for the nearest to you.NB: Boat hire charges are likely to apply.<h3>Treetop Challenges</h3>Treetop challenges like <a href="https://goape.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Go Ape</a> are a more recent activity, usually found in country parks with plenty of woods and forests. For younger visitors, it may be a netted boardwalk high among the treetops. For older children, think adventure and adrenaline rush! Obstacles constructed high among the trees will challenge you to climb, balance, zip and swing to navigate your route across them while admiring the aerial views and wildlife. Safety is a top priority at these venues, so you will be given prior instruction in using climbing harnesses and clips. Expert guides will always be on hand to instruct and assist.Please note there are age limits and restrictions on group numbers, so it’s worth checking at your chosen venue before booking! <h3>Conclusion</h3>Parks are available throughout the UK, and depending on your activities, they are free to use. What better way to spend time with your kids than on a family and friends park visit?<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/mother-and-daughters-playing-by-pond-in-village-7671079/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva</a>

Top 5 Summer Park Activities for Families

For any child starting out in a sport, some champions have been there before, put in the training and made it to the very top. These icons are so important to inspire kids to carry on and believe in themselves.Becoming an elite flatwater canoeist takes hard work, perseverance, time, and commitment. Many times your child will want to give up or take a step back, especially after a gruelling training session. However, having the endurance to see it’ll all be worth it is so important, and having champions will help bring your child to reality. It will remind them that giving up isn’t what they want.&nbsp;So if your child loves flatwater canoeing, here are some champions that have made it to the top.<h3>Daniel Atkins, UK</h3>At only 18 years old, Dan decided to focus entirely on paddle sports fairly recently and is currently enjoying his first year on the Performance Programme. Over the past few years, he has gained the titles of Junior European Championship and Junior World Championship. He is a shining example of how, when you put your mind to something, you can achieve at a young age and compete in some of the world’s top competitions. <h3>Lisa Carrington, New Zealand</h3>Lisa Carrington of New Zealand is one of the country's most decorated canoe champions, often called The Canoe Queen. Her first Olympics was in London 2012, and through her career has achieved 5 Olympic golds, and at only 33 years old, she has achieved so much with sheer hard work and determination. <h3>Gert Fredriksson, Sweden</h3>Gert Fredriksson is known to be the best men’s canoe athlete of all time. Although he is no longer with us, over his 12-year canoeing career, he became a 6-time Olympic gold medallist, winning most of the single sprint categories and beating almost every other canoeist he came up against. His inspiration, drive and dedication took him to the top, and he retained his title for many years. <h3>Birgit Fischer, Germany</h3>Birgit Fischer is another of the world’s top canoeists who earned her title by becoming an 8-time Olympic champion. She’s considered the world’s best canoeist of all time due to her dedication and achievement. Her career spanned so long that she became the world's youngest canoeist at age 18 and also the oldest at 42 when she won gold in the 500m sprint as part of her team. No other athlete continued for as long as she did and achieved as many medals. <h3>Liam Heath, UK</h3>Surrey-born Liam Heath is the UK’s most successful canoeist winning 4 gold medals and competing in individual and team events. At 25, he was invited to train with team GB, as the Olympic committee introduced the 200m sprint to the sporting event. In 2017 he competed in European Championships in Bulgaria, the K1 200m event, where he retained his world title and world record of 33.380. He remains at the top even today. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-riding-on-kayak-on-body-of-water-3801441/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Patrick Case</a>

Flatwater Canoeing Champions for Kids to Aspire to

Canoeing is a fantastic sport for your children to take part in. I’ll teach them an excellent set of skills, and they’ll also gain a deep understanding of water safety, which is imperative for any child to learn.Where you can canoe depends a lot on where you live because it requires a flat body of water to head into, however, most regions have natural or artificial facilities for your kids to enjoy, so it’s unlikely you’ll need to travel far. Although you can head out as a family and enjoy the water, it’s a great idea to look into signing your child up for a club so they can learn the necessary skills correctly and make the most of the opportunity.Here is a list of some of the top flatwater canoeing clubs for kids in the UK.<h3>Cambridge Canoe Club</h3>Cambridge Canoe Club is perfect for kids, with the junior section for children aged 8-12. They cater to those who have never set foot in a canoe through to rising talent. For younger ones, the club does allow children younger than 8 to paddle in tandem with their parents.&nbsp;They give flat water lessons and slalom and can take your child to racing opportunities if they wish.<h3>Chiltern Canoe Club</h3>Chiltern Canoe Club offers a paddle experience for all ages in and around Buckinghamshire. This club focuses on enjoyment over competitions and organises social events throughout the canoeing calendar. Juniors can begin lessons at 9 years old, and the club follows the British Canoeing Paddlepower award scheme. Canoeing for kids takes place in a swimming pool to ensure maximum safety, and adult courses move outdoors to the Bulbourne canal.<h3>Cumbria Canoeists</h3>Cumbria Canoeists encompass the range of canoe clubs within the Cumbria region and provide canoe fun for everybody aged 8-80 and beginners to elite athletes.&nbsp;Copeland Canoe Club, based in Whitehaven, takes juniors aged 8 onto the Lake District's flat waters and practises in pools, gentle rivers and the sea. Your kids will learn the essential skills and progress to competitions if they wish.<h3>Junior Watersports Centre, Newton Abbot</h3>Part of the Devon Windsurf and Canoe Centre, this is an excellent option for youngsters in and around Devon. This club focuses on making paddle sports fun and aims to improve water confidence. With opportunities for kids aged 7-12, they can learn flatwater canoeing, but the centre offers many more possibilities. There are also some great social events throughout the year.<h3>West Yorkshire Canoe Club</h3>If you live in West Yorkshire, this is an excellent place to get your child into the water. They provide lessons for all. A complete beginner will start with basic paddling skills in the pool or lake, which they can then build on. They also use a range of rivers and lakes suited to the age and stage of the canoeist.With links to the UK’s governing body, British Canoeing, the club provides opportunities for talent progression in flatwater and slalom canoeing. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-with-canoes-near-rocks-on-riverbank-7276718/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Rachel Claire</a>

Flatwater Canoeing Clubs for Kids in the UK

Many children love water; they love being in it, and they love being on it. If this is your child, then they may love canoeing. Canoeing and kayaking are very similar, save for the boat's shape, and there are options for both.Canoeing is an exciting option for children: it will allow them to keep fit, learn new skills and meet new people, but also, if your child can canoe, you can head out for family adventures together.If your child loves it on the water, there are options to explore, and once they’re proficient, they can choose whether they want to remain on flatwater or think about slalom canoeing. Although they are similar in many ways, there are some stark differences. Read on to learn more to help you and your children understand the difference.<h3>Flatwater Canoeing</h3>Flatwater canoeing is, as the name suggests, on a body of water that is flat and without wind, waves or currents. Heading out onto the flat water is an excellent option for kids just starting on the water. They could go out with an adult or independently, which means they can understand the feelings and motion of being on the water in the vessel. If your kids have all the necessary safety equipment, they could go out with you. Alternatively, you could find a local club to enrol your child in. This way, they will receive correct instruction from the beginning and won’t pick up any habits that make the sport harder in the long run.Flatwater canoeing is a lovely hobby, especially if your child likes being out on the water, where they can take things at a leisurely pace. However, there is a pathway for progression that will encourage your child to improve and train hard, leading to sprint competitions and a great set of skills. If your child stays with it, they could begin competing in short races of 500m up to 20km when they reach adulthood. They may even make it to the Olympics!<h3>Slalom Canoeing</h3>Slalom canoeing is a much different sport; despite being in a canoe for both, slalom canoeing has a much more significant element of risk and involves heading down whitewater rapids whilst passing through gates placed at various points of the course. It is fast-paced and exhilarating and not for the faint-hearted.Unlike flatwater canoeing, slalom canoeing is not a branch of canoeing that is safe for you to try alone with your kids. You need to be a part of a club, and your kids need to learn how to approach the situation correctly; otherwise, it can be dangerous. Most canoe clubs will take children for flatwater lessons from the ages of 5-6; however, children need to be around 9 to begin slalom canoeing and must have spent time on the flat to develop the skills and strength first.Slalom canoeing also has a defined talent pathway for your child to progress, and if your child demonstrates exceptional talent and dedication, they may have the opportunity for exciting training. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-man-paddling-kayak-in-raging-river-2250521/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Brett Sayles</a>

Flatwater Canoeing v Slalom Canoeing for Kids

Flatwater canoeing looks simple and serene, and often, it is. Flatwater canoeing takes place on still bodies of water, such as large ponds and lakes that do not have currents or waves. Canoeists would also not head onto the water in excessive wind. However, another reason flatwater canoeing looks so easy is that the athletes have mastered the basic skills to manoeuvre and control the boat perfectly.If you have the equipment, it’s great fun to head out with your kids on a glorious day and paddle around. The chances are they’d get to know the boat quickly and be able to get by. However, suppose you’re keen for your child to learn the basic canoeing skills correctly. In that case, it might be worth enrolling in a local paddleboarding club to ensure they receive proper training, and if they do, instructors will teach very quickly, making them proficient canoeists.<h3>Safety and risk</h3>Although it’s not a physical skill, understanding safety and risk on the water is so important that children will receive instruction on it straight away. Learning water safety is crucial, so they know what to wear to stay safe and understand safe behaviour. The instructor will ensure children know what to do if they encounter difficulties on the water. Another aspect of safety is making sure children learn how to carry the equipment without hurting themselves or those around them.<h3>Getting in and out</h3>Getting in and out may seem like one of the most simple skills, but it’s pretty tricky if you don't know how, and there is the risk of the canoe wobbling, your child falling in, or the boat tipping over. This could see them getting into difficulty, so instructors will ensure they learn the correct way of getting in and out, and it won’t take long for them to master.<h3>Paddling Forwards</h3>Although paddles are straightforward gadgets, they can be challenging to control and use effectively for children. Instructors will take time with your child to teach them how to use them properly; otherwise, if they cannot, they may not enjoy their time on the water because using them wrong could be extra hard work. Once they get the hang of this, your child will likely find canoeing calming and quite therapeutic.<h3>Stopping</h3>Another essential skill your child will learn from their instructor is how to stop. This is so important to avoid an accident, such as your child hitting another canoe or anything else in or around the water. Reversing the forward motion of a paddle to reverse is the first step in learning this skill.<h3>Turning</h3>Once your child can effectively and efficiently move forwards with their paddles, they will learn the skill of turning. Using one paddle repeatedly to turn and knowing what force to use to turn a certain amount takes time to master, but it means they can more or less go where they want on the water and avoid bumping into others along the way. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-men-in-kayak-1682744/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by eMiL rAjAn</a>

What Skills does Flatwater Canoeing Teach Kids?

It takes a lot to get to the Olympics, but it’s not impossible. For children interested in flat water canoeing, there is a clear pathway to the top, as set out by British Canoe; however, although this pathway is in place for kids aged 9 and above, it takes more than this to progress to the Olympic level in any sport.Below are some experiences and support you can give your child to help them reach the top and possibly be one of the best flat-water canoeists in the world.<h3>Introduce them young</h3>It’s often the case that Olympic-level athletes begin their sport at a very young age, and where possible, this is an excellent idea. Not only will it mean your kids will experience the sport, but they also won’t know any differently and will become one with the feelings and motion. By doing this, your children will also see how much you love it and develop fond memories.So, if you have a boat and the safety equipment, take your children out and let them experience the delights of floating on water and exploring the surrounding areas.<h3>Attend a club</h3>The next stage is to join a club in your area. They will help instruct your child and teach them the skills correctly. Through a club, your child will also be able to meet new people and make the most of the social side, making it even more appealing. Your child may also be able to take part in competitions against other regional clubs to develop their understanding of how sprint races work and what it takes to win.<h3>Enter Competitions</h3>A regional club will provide opportunities for competitions, and it’s essential for your child to enter as many as possible, especially if they want to go far. They must have the drive to want to win and will put everything into it to reach the top. The more competitions your child can enter, the more they can get used to the emotions involved, understand how to control them, and learn how to win through trial and error.<h3>Follow The Talent Pathway</h3>Once your child is happy and, if they wish, a regional club can help them get onto the talent pathway. This is set out by the governing body British Canoe and is the next step towards the Olympics. Juniors must try out for a limited place, which means their training would intensify slightly, but it is also an exciting step up for committed children. It takes around 8-9 years for athletes to master their sport, so the sooner they can make it onto this pathway, the sooner they’ll reach their goal.<h3>Support Them</h3>Unless you’re fully behind your child, they don't stand a chance of getting to the top. As a parent, you are their most significant financial and emotional support and crucial to them sticking to it. It takes a lot to train at the top, and often they’ll want to give up. You being their number one support will make all the difference. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-rowing-boat-3554634/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by RUN 4 FFWPU</a>

Get Kids to the Olympics in Flatwater Canoeing

Kids are often inspired to start boxing by watching the sport, whether that’s on TV or seeing boxers sparring in front of them. These days they may also be inspired by video games.&nbsp;If you or another family member practises boxing at home, your child may try to copy the routine. Show them how to try it out safely and buy them some gloves so they don’t hurt their hands.Boxing helps to improve kids’ physical and mental health. It also teaches life lessons kids can apply to all areas of their lives. If you are looking for ways to introduce your kids to boxing and get them excited about it, read on.<h3>Watch boxing</h3>Watch boxing matches on TV or YouTube. Explain the basic rules and let your child experience the excitement and atmosphere of a professional boxing match.&nbsp;<h3>Start out at home</h3>It is easy for kids to start boxing by learning and practising the fundamental techniques at home. This is also a fantastic method for them to test the waters and ensure they enjoy it before spending money on equipment.Boxing training for children begins with the same fundamentals as boxing instruction for adults: learning stances and basic punches. When your child has had a go at various training techniques, such as shadow boxing exercises, you can consider purchasing boxing equipment at home.<h3>Go to a class</h3>If your child is keen to learn more, sign them up for an age-appropriate class at a boxing gym, leisure centre or school. This way they can learn from a professional and make some new friends at the same time. Ask around for recommendations or look at reviews to help you find a good coach who can help your child develop their fitness, agility and techniques, while having fun.&nbsp;<h3>Don’t force them</h3>Let your children develop at their own pace and don’t force them to continue with boxing if they’re not enjoying it. Encourage them to try something else. They may come back to boxing once they’re older, so don’t despair.<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>As a parent, you can lead the way in introducing your children to new sports and activities they may enjoy. Professional classes are also a great way for your child to meet other children and make new friends while learning. However, remember that your children are individuals with their own likes and dislikes and don’t try to force them into any sport or activity they don’t enjoy. <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-boy-wearing-black-boxing-gloves-6720438/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Photo by Gustavo Fring</a>

How Can I Get My Kids into Boxing?

Bobsleighing is a winter sport full of fun and adrenaline. It’s a fast-paced race, with the winners being the team to complete the best times over 4 heats.Because of the nature of bobsleighing, the sport isn’t an option for children under 16. However, sledging and tobogganing are great starting points for reaching this goal, and the qualities they gain from engaging in these kinds of activities will give them a great set of life skills for almost anything else they do throughout life.<h3>Teamwork</h3>One of the greatest qualities that bobsleighing teaches children is teamwork. Everything about the sport only happens if they work together, from the moment they begin the first run to every twist and turn and braking at the end. What's more, one wrong move out of sync with the rest of the crew could result in a nasty accident.&nbsp;A bobsleigh crew must be able to verbally communicate to work as a team before the run and whilst training to understand each other. Still, during the race, they must also listen and be in tune with their team’s body language to understand what is happening.<h3>Risk Assessment</h3>When your child embarks on a hobby such as bobsleighing, they must be happy to take risks. Although through careful training, specialised equipment, and every precaution taken to ensure everyone's safety, when you’re going that fast, there is always the possibility of an accident. With this in mind, your child will develop a healthy understanding of risk, what is acceptable, and how to prevent it in other areas of life.<h3>Reaction Time</h3>Everything about bobsleighing is about speed. The quicker the team can leave the start and pick up the pace, the better their time will be. This all comes down to reaction times and getting started as quickly as possible. Reaction times also come into play during the race in response to the team to make sure the race runs as smoothly as possible.<h3>Endurance</h3>Bobsleighing is hard work, and your child improving their all-round fitness will also build stamina and the ability to maintain their powerful form throughout the race, to drive the vehicle around the bends in a particular way to succeed.<h3>Resilience</h3>It may look easy when you see the professional bobsleigh team running the course during the Olympics; however, to reach that point takes hard work. It also means they have to get back up when it doesn’t go as well as planned. The precision involved will take time, and in the process, and especially, to begin with, there’s likely to be many more failed runs down the track than successful ones.<h3>Perseverance</h3>Learning any sport takes perseverance; they must keep going and trying until they reach their goal. However, because it takes so long to get to actually ride a bobsleigh, and they will need to gain similar skills through sledging, tobogganing and skeleton racing, your child will develop perseverance by the bucketload. Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@theophilus318?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brendan Beale</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-black-jacket-riding-yellow-snow-sled-on-snow-covered-ground-during-daytime-0JxioPoC9S4?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unsplash</a>

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