Postural gymnastics for children
- Federico Frulloni
- Jan 5
- 3 min read
Between heavy backpacks, long hours of sitting, and (too many) screens, today's kids have habits that put a strain on their spine and muscular balance. Postural gymnastics was created precisely for this purpose: to educate the growing body to move well, prevent pain, and build a solid foundation for sports and adult life.
Sedentary lifestyle on the rise, activity on the decline
The WHO recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a day for 5-17 year-olds, including muscle- and bone-strengthening activities three times a week . Yet in Italy, fewer than 1 in 10 adolescents meets these guidelines; among 15-year-olds, the percentage drops to approximately 3% of girls and 7% of boys .
The use of digital technologies is growing: an HBSC report indicates that approximately 1 in 4 Italian adolescents plays video games every day , with males playing more intensely; overall, sedentary behavior is increasing.
What happens to teenagers' backs?
Back pain isn't just an "adult" problem: several studies show that lower back pain begins in adolescence (about 14% report it in the last month; ~10% persistent) and tends to increase with age.
It is at this age that problems such as scoliosis, hyperlordosis, hyperkyphosis and winged scapula arise due to genetic predisposition or postural problems, but it is precisely at this age that active interventions work best, up to complete resolution in some cases.
Why postural gymnastics is different from "going to the gym"
Postural gymnastics for children is not a generic fitness circuit:
It re-educates motor and respiratory patterns, aligns segments (head-shoulders-pelvis), improves mobility and neuromuscular control.
It strengthens the deep muscles in a balanced way (core, scapular and pelvic stabilizers).
Integrate daily habits: how you sit, how you carry your backpack, how you bend to lift.
It is preventative : good physical fitness reduces the risk and impact of back pain in adolescents.
Why in a group?
Although we specialize in one-on-one postural gymnastics, children at this age often seek a fun environment where they can talk about their passions with their peers. This makes it much easier to achieve their long-term goals.
Expected benefits (in 8-12 weeks)
More aligned posture (e.g. head and shoulders less projected forward, more stable pelvis).
Reduced muscle pain and tension ; increased flexibility and strength of postural muscles.
Body awareness : Children learn to recognize and correct “risky” positions at school and at home.
Transferability to sport : better performance, better technique, lower compensation, fewer overuse injuries.
How we work at FFTraining (format for 10–16 year olds)
Group structure: small groups of the same age, with progressions appropriate to the growth stage.
Competent staff : the children will be followed by kinesiologists with degrees and specialized in developmental age
Initial assessment: rapid postural tests and comparison with parents
Method: Global exercises of active stretching, breathing, chest/hip mobility, core and stabilizer strengthening, ergonomic education (desk, backpack, smartphone).
Continuous feedback to parents: simple advice to apply at home and at school.
2025/2026 Schedule - October/March
10–13 years → Monday 5:00 pm
14–16 years → Thursday 6:00 PM
Each lesson lasts 60 minutes, with a limited number of participants to ensure proper care and personalization.
And if you, as a parent, want to make the most of this time while you wait, we have the solution for you. Discover our services!
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