Helping your boys build healthy habits and strong bodies doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for new ideas, this resource hub—designed with real moms in mind—will help you support your son’s physical development, strength, and confidence through fun, safe movement.
Missed the Built to Move Podcast?
Listen to our conversation with Annie Carey Linton, a Pediatric Clinical Exercise Physiologist at CHOP, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, who breaks down how moms can support their sons through every stage of physical development.
🎧 Built to Move: A Guide to Boys’ Physical Development and Conditioning
Expert-Recommended Reads
1. Resistance Training for Children and Adolescents (AAP)
Learn what the American Academy of Pediatrics says about safe and effective strength training for kids.
🔗 Read the AAP Statement
2. ACE FitFacts: Youth Strength Training
Simple guidelines for helping your child build muscle safely. This quick read is full of common-sense advice.
🔗 Download FitFacts PDF
Fun & Fitness with Games
Fruit Ninja (VR or mobile)
Slash your way to coordination and quick reflexes with this fast-paced fruit-slicing game. Great for screen-time that gets kids moving!
🎮 Available on: Oculus, iOS, Android
Gorilla Tag (VR)
Get their energy out in this wildly fun, fast-moving tag game where kids move by swinging their arms like gorillas!
🎮 Available on: Oculus Quest, SteamVR
Fitness at Home Tools
Darebee.com
Free, visual workouts your kids can do at home—no equipment needed. Explore everything from superhero training to flexibility routines.
🔗 Explore Darebee
TRX Training for Kids
Annie recommends bodyweight suspension training to build core strength safely. Check your local Y or try beginner workouts at home.
💡 Look for beginner TRX routines on YouTube or ask your gym about youth-friendly classes.
Fitness Tracking Apps for Kids
Try apps like Sworkit Kids, Jr. NBA, or even family step challenges with a Fitbit or Apple Watch.
Motivation & Mindset
🎯 SMART Goals for Kids
Help your son stay focused and feel accomplished with age-appropriate fitness goals:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
Try goals like: “Do 10 push-ups a day for 1 week” or “Walk the dog when you get home from school for 2 weeks.”
Growth, Not Perfection
Remember what Annie shared: It’s not about athletic perfection—it’s about movement, fun, and confidence.
Join the Conversation
💬 Let’s keep sharing tips, tools, and wins.
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Because Strong Boys Start with Strong Support
🧡 You’re doing an amazing job. Every walk, stretch, and silly dance party you share is helping your boy grow into a healthy, confident man. Keep moving, mama—you’ve got this.
