When most people hear the words “core strength,” they think of sit-ups or crunches. But for kids, a strong core is about much more than exercise—it’s the foundation for movement, posture, play, and confidence. At Move U Pediatric Therapy in Sioux Falls, we help children build the core strength they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
Why Core Strength Matters for Kids
Core strength is at the center of nearly everything a child does. The muscles in the trunk, abdomen, and back support posture, balance, and coordination. Without a strong core, even simple daily activities can feel harder than they should.
Children with weak trunk muscles may:
- Slouch in their chairs or lean on furniture during play.
- Tire quickly when sitting in class or during active play.
- Wiggle or fidget, not because they’re distracted, but because their body is working overtime to stay upright.
When posture takes less effort, kids can use their energy for what matters most—focusing in school, enjoying play, and participating fully in sports and activities.
How Pediatric Therapy Builds Core Strength
At Move U, our pediatric physical therapy sessions are:
- Play-based: Kids engage in fun, interactive activities like obstacle courses, balance games, and climbing challenges.
- Tailored: Every child receives exercises designed for their unique needs and abilities.
- Joyful: Therapy feels like play while still targeting critical developmental skills.
This approach ensures kids are motivated, confident, and consistently building strength in ways that support real-life function.
Signs Your Child May Benefit From Pediatric PT
If you’ve noticed your child struggling with posture, movement, or coordination, a pediatric physical therapy assessment may help. Common signs include:
- Slouching or leaning during seated tasks.
- Fatiguing quickly during active play.
- Difficulty keeping up with peers in sports or gym class.
- Poor balance or frequent falls.
- Trouble with skills like skipping, climbing, or throwing.
Sioux Falls Pediatric Therapy at Move U
At Move U, we believe every child deserves to move with confidence and joy. Our team partners with families to support developmental milestones, strengthen motor skills, and help children reach their full potential.
If your child is showing signs of weak core strength or movement challenges, trust Move U Pediatric Therapy in Sioux Falls to provide expert, compassionate care.
📍 Located in Sioux Falls, SD
📞 Call us today at 605-409-9533
💻 Or schedule a consultation online at TheMoveU.com
Because strong cores build strong kids—and strong kids build bright futures.
Core Strength and Movement Skills
A strong core doesn’t just support sitting—it’s the anchor for almost every movement. Running, jumping, climbing, throwing, and kicking all rely on core stability.
The core helps children:
- Balance when stopping suddenly.
- Stay steady while climbing or standing on one leg.
- Use their arms and legs with more control during sports and play.
In physical therapy, there’s a phrase we love: “proximal stability supports distal mobility.” In other words, when the center of the body is strong, arms and legs can move more skillfully. Strong cores build confident, coordinated kids.