Opening December 2026Queensway and Cawthra, Mississaugafuturechampsfitness@gmail.com

Parents’ guide

A parents’ guide to kids’ fitness

What Canada’s guidelines say about how much kids should move, what exercise scientists say about strength training, and our answers to the questions worth asking any kids’ gym. Checked October 2026.

Canada’s guidelines

How much activity do kids need?

The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines set daily targets by age.

  • Toddlers, 1–2

    At least 180 minutes a day in a variety of physical activities at any intensity, including energetic play, spread throughout the day.

  • Preschoolers, 3–4

    At least 180 minutes a day spread throughout the day, of which at least 60 minutes is energetic play.

  • Kids and teens, 5–17

    At least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous activity, plus vigorous activity and muscle and bone strengthening at least 3 days a week.

  • Sleep, 5–13 and 14–17

    9 to 11 hours a night for ages 5–13, and 8 to 10 hours for ages 14–17, with consistent bed and wake-up times.

Sources: Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, Early Years (CSEP) (opens the source) · Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, Children and Youth (CSEP) (opens the source), checked October 2026

The research

Is strength training safe for kids?

The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) published a position paper on resistance training for children and adolescents. Its main points:

  • There is no minimum age for resistance training for children.
  • With proper training methods, it can be relatively safe and improve overall health.
  • Programs should progress gradually, under qualified instruction and supervision, with appropriately sized equipment.
  • Low-to-moderate intensity, 2–3 times a week on non-consecutive days.

Source: CSEP position paper on resistance training (2008) (opens the source)

Before you sign up anywhere

10 questions to ask any kids’ gym, and our answers

Good programs are glad to answer these. Here’s how Future Champs Fitness answers them.

  1. Who leads each class, and what training do they have?

    Each class is led by two certified instructors. Our instructors hold certifications from recognized organizations, including ISSA and canfitpro.

  2. How many children are in each class?

    Rookies and Juniors classes have a maximum of 12 children. Elite and Pros classes have a maximum of 15.

  3. Do instructors have a current police vulnerable sector check?

    Yes. Every instructor is thoroughly vetted and holds a police vulnerable sector check that is renewed every six months.

  4. Is someone trained in first aid and CPR at every class?

    Yes. All of our instructors are trained in first aid, CPR and AED, and we have a defibrillator on site.

  5. What happens if a child bumps their head?

    Your child’s safety comes first. We take every head injury seriously: the child is removed from activity and assessed, and their parent or guardian is notified. If needed, we call emergency medical services, and every incident is documented.

  6. How are classes grouped by age and ability?

    Classes are grouped by age so activities are safe, appropriate and engaging. In every class, our instructors adapt exercises to each child’s fitness level and ability, so everyone can take part, progress and feel challenged.

  7. Can I watch a class?

    Yes. Parents are welcome to stay and watch. Our seating area lets you see how our coaches work with your kids and the quality of training they receive.

  8. How do you handle allergies, asthma or other medical needs?

    Your child’s safety is our priority. Please tell us about any allergies, asthma, medical conditions or special needs when you register. Our certified instructors review this information and follow any accommodations or emergency plans while your child is in our care.

  9. What if I need to cancel?

    We keep it simple and flexible. There are no long-term commitments; we only ask for 30 days’ notice to cancel your membership.

  10. What information about my child do you keep, and why?

    We collect only what we need to provide a safe and positive experience, such as your child’s name, age, emergency contacts and any relevant medical or allergy information. It’s kept secure and used only for registration, communication, safety and running our programs.

FAQ

Quick answers

How much physical activity does my child need?

Canada’s 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recommend at least 180 minutes a day for ages 1–4, and at least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous activity for ages 5–17.

Is strength training safe for kids?

The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology’s position paper says there is no minimum age for resistance training and that, with proper training methods, it can be relatively safe and improve overall health, with qualified instruction and supervision.

Founding member offer

Be one of the first 25 champs.

$99 + tax a month for 4 classes, instead of $120. Joining the list takes no payment.