Upper body strength is not just for bodybuilders at the gym—it is important for a child’s coordination and posture. Many children have poor posture due to excessive screen time which puts undue strain on the neck and spine. Developing these muscles also makes activities of daily life easier, such as pulling, lifting, and carrying.
Benefits of Upper body strength
It improves overall health: Strength training of any kind can help kids maintain a healthy weight, cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
It boosts bone strength: The bones grow fastest during childhood and adolescence. Building bone strength during these phases of growth helps reduce the risk of bone loss later in life. Plus, strong bones help children avoid injuries.
It improves coordination: Many activities that help children build upper body strength can also help them develop their gross and fine motor skills. Climbing or moving across the monkey bars, for example, can increase coordination. Improved coordination can help children perform better in sports and in everyday tasks.
It improves posture: Strengthening upper back and shoulder muscles can help children maintain better posture and help their spine develop properly. Improper posture can put undue strain on muscles, joints, ligaments, and bones.
It boosts athleticism: Throwing a ball, swinging a bat, or swimming across the pool all require upper body strength.
It raises self-confidence: When children have good upper body strength, they will be able to throw a ball further or faster than a child who hasn’t. This self-esteem boost can filter into other areas of a child’s life, helping them feel more self-assured in the classroom or social situations.
Playground equipment to develop upper body strength
Monkey Bars, Monkey Rings and climbing frames
Monkey bars, rings and climbing frames use body weight to build strength, grip strength and flexibility and target different muscle groups.
Gecko Grip Climbing Wall, Ramp Climber
Climbing walls offer an exceptional full-body workout but are especially good for arm strength. Best of all? Children are often too busy having fun to realise how much work they’re putting into it.
Rung ladder and Arched monkey bars
Climbing ladders and arched monkey bars are an excellent way to work the upper body and core
Pull-Up Bar
Pullups also work multiple muscle groups but are excellent for building upper body strength.
Cargo Net
Climbing a cargo net successfully requires children to lift and control their own body weight. Getting to the top of the net without slipping through one of the openings also requires good hand-eye coordination.
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