1. Is strength training safe for my child?
Absolutely. Research from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) shows that supervised strength training is safe and beneficial for children as young as 7 or 8. At Altadena CrossFit, we prioritize form over weight. Our youth athletes start with bodyweight movements and PVC pipes to master mechanics before ever adding external resistance.
2. How will this program help my child’s performance in sports like soccer or basketball?
Most youth sports involve a high volume of repetitive movements (like kicking or sprinting), which can lead to imbalances. Our conditioning program focuses on lateral stability, explosive power, core strength, and most importantly Injury Prevention. By building a balanced physical foundation, your athlete will be faster on the field, jump higher on the court, and be significantly less prone to common overuse injuries like ACL tears or shin splints.
4. My child isn’t a “competitive athlete”—is this still for them?
Yes! We believe every child is an athlete. Our “Developmental Youth” sessions focus on physical literacy—teaching kids how to move their bodies with coordination and confidence through games-based fitness. It’s about building a lifelong positive relationship with exercise in a fun, non-intimidating environment.
5. What makes your program different from school PE or city recreation leagues?
While city programs (like Pasadena Parks & Rec) are great for general activity, they often lack specialized equipment and professional coaching. Our coaches are specifically trained in youth athletic development. We provide a structured curriculum, small class sizes for individualized attention, and a facility equipped with professional-grade tools designed for functional fitness.
6. What is the schedule and age range?
We typically categorize our youth programs into two main groups: Ages 10 – 16 (16+ we suggest moving to our main CrossFit Program, but we are still willing to work with them in this program)
Please check our [Current Schedule Page] for specific after-school and weekend time slots.
7. Can we try a class before committing?
We offer a Youth Athletic Assessment for all new families. This allows our coaches to meet your child, assess their current movement patterns, and ensure they are placed in the group that best fits their developmental stage and goals.
Ready to get started?
