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Why Teaching Movement Matters More Than Workouts for Middle Schoolers
Before kids build strength or speed, they need to learn how to move — and most programs skip that step.
As a high school strength coach and physical education teacher in Middletown, I’ve seen it all: kids entering high school sports with speed, talent, and enthusiasm — but without the most important piece of the puzzle…
They’ve never been taught how to move.
And it’s not their fault.
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Somewhere along the way, youth training became all about “more reps” and “higher intensity.” But especially for middle schoolers, more doesn’t always mean better — especially when the movement isn’t there.
The Real Problem
Kids in grades 6–8 are growing fast. They’re experiencing coordination changes, motor learning windows, and body awareness challenges that most coaches and programs simply aren’t prepared to handle.
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What they need isn’t more games or reps.
What they need is to be coached.
What We Should Be Teaching
Before we talk about lifting weights or getting faster, we need to teach kids:
- How to squat with posture and stability
- How to hinge at the hips safely
- How to run with rhythm and control
- How to land, absorb force, and change direction
That foundation sets the stage for everything else — strength, speed, athletic confidence, and even injury prevention.
A Local Solution
That’s exactly why I created the Power & Pride Strength & Speed Camp, built exclusively for rising 6th–8th graders here in Middletown and surrounding areas.
We don’t chase sweat. We coach movement.
Camp runs July 7–25 at Middletown North, and is led by certified strength coaches and licensed educators who specialize in training this age group with safety, clarity, and patience.
Want to learn more? Visit
🔗 www.powerandpridecamp.com
Let’s teach it right the first time.
— Coach Marc Rosamilia
