About Little Lions Fitness Program
Little Lions Fitness is a program designed to teach kids the age-appropriate fundamentals of healthy movement and making it fun! Kids will learn how to effectively move with body control and awareness, improve motor skill development, build body-weight strength, build self-esteem and promote positive body image practices, improve coordination and balance.
This program offers a variety of fundamentals including strength training only through body weight exercises, agility with footwork, running technique with acceleration and deceleration, change of direction, mobility, better movement patterns, dynamic movements and flexibility in a safe, fun and friendly environment.
Resistance-based play (climbing, jumping, carrying, etc) builds bone-density and neuromuscular coordination. Teaching kids breath work and mindfulness helps with emotional regulation.Kids will also learn the value of a team; communication skills, supporting others, positive thinking and problem-solving skills. The skills learned in the program will not only transition to everyday life but will also improve overall athletic performance.
Fitness is a life-long journey and it’s crucial to learn the basics at a young age. Lack of movement is tied to obesity, anxiety and depression and even reduced academic performance. Exercising improves physical and mental health through means of stronger bones and muscles, improved cardio, improved immune system, reduced blood sugar levels, increased self-confidence, a strong mind-set, injury prevention, reduced stress and anxiety levels and better quality sleep. Kids who are more active at a younger age have a better chance of becoming active adults which in turn leads to making healthier choices. Kids who become active adults can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Start them young!
MEET THE COACH
COACH JENA WEAVER-CAMACHO
Jena is a native to the area and grew up in Penns Valley. She graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Kinesiology from Lock Haven University. She then accepted the Assistant Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning Coach position at the Pennsylvania State University where she assisted with the programming of over 25 Men and Women’s Division I teams. Jena personally developed and implemented the strength and conditioning programs for Men and Women’s Diving, Women’s Tennis and Men’s Track and Field Multi-Jumpers and High Jumpers throughout her 4 years.
She has held a number of different job positions within the fitness world including a coaching job at the founding location of Parisi Speed School in Fair Lawn, NJ. Parisi Speed School is a nation-wide franchise that teaches kids as young as 4 years of age the basics and fundamentals of speed training. This training system involves sprinting mechanics along with proper running technique and change of direction.
Jena is currently the Director of Performance Programs at Summit Chiropractic and Wellness. She offers mobility and one-on-one strength training for adults to the local community but is excited for this new venture to offer a program just for kids that teaches them the value of healthy movement at a young age.
