fit kids
ninja factory A new obstacle training course in Flower Mound helps kids build the skills and confidence to become American Ninja Warriors. BY PAULA FELPS
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Photo courtesy of Win Kids Sports
ans of NBC’s popular American Ninja Warrior will immediately recognize some of the show’s iconic obstacles when they walk into Win Kids Sports and Learning Center in Flower Mound — even if they are a bit smaller than the real thing. A $500,000 COURSE The facility has always offered gymnastics laced with martial arts moves, but about five years ago, owner Mike Winburn decided to start integrating some of the most popular obstacles from American Ninja Warrior. As the television show’s popularity surged, so did interest in the classes, and before long, a full Ninja Warrior renovation was planned. “We decided it was time to invest in legit Ninja Warrior-style equipment,” says Winburn, who put his money where his mouth is by investing $500,000 in the new course. The investment has paid off: “It’s been amazing. In numbers, the Ninja classes make up about one half of all the Win Kid operations,” he says. Kids participating in training will see familiar obstacles such as the Warped
Wall, Salmon Ladder, Floating Bridges and more. Unlike the televised version, however, the course is customized to the size and skill level of each class, allowing young ninjas to master each obstacle before the level of difficulty is increased. CONFIDENCE BUILDER “Our goal is that they accomplish something every day,” Winburn says. “We have kids who are 3, 4 years old completing the course. We want every kid to leave feeling thrilled by what they accomplished every time.” The approach makes sure that as they run, tumble, sing and climb, kids not only build speed, agility, coordination and strength but also confidence.
“There are a lot of high fives and a lot of positive feedback,” Winburn explains. “We catch kids doing things right and say ‘great job.’ We’re giving them the message that they can be strong and feel successful. It lets them know what it feels like to be an athlete.” No specific skills or experience are required train at the Ninja Training Center, and students range in age from toddlers to teens. 3000 Waketon Road, Flower Mound winkids.net 972-355-9988
Kids build their confidence as well as athletic skills.
The new $500,000 ninja course
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