Les Mills is making moves to break the deadly cycle of inactivity and help the next generation fall in love with fitness.

Reaching back to when habits are formed, Les Mills’ new series of youth classes, titled BORN TO MOVE™, has been created for young people aged 2 to 16. It is designed to inspire a lifelong love of movement, plugging young people into their innate need to move and the joy, vitality and self-esteem that comes with it.

There are separate BORN TO MOVE™ programs for five age groups, starting with two to three year-olds through to young teens. Classes for the younger children build foundation fitness skills through imagination, exploration, music and movement set to specially created music; while classes for older kids use top 40 hits and focus on building dance, martial arts and athletic skills.

Backed by extensive research and a world-class teacher training system, the programs are designed to meet the unique development needs of young people. Using music and moves children love will encourage a sense of achievement, whatever the child’s stage or ability.

Les Mills’ foray into youth programming began in 2009, when the company commenced a global search for the world’s best children’s programming. A Swedish organization led by dance teacher Anna Zahn was recognized as a leader in this space and Les Mills acquired the business. Dr. Jackie Mills MD, head of programming at Les Mills joined forces with Zahn to build on the solid foundations already in place. Janine Phillips, with 25 years’ experience in fitness programming at Les Mills and her two teenage children, Taine and Corrah Phillips, were also significantly involved in the development.

Dr. Mills believes that this initiative is the most important Les Mills has ever embarked upon. “The world is heading towards a physical inactivity epidemic, and the early years of life are a critical window to form positive habits. Young people who learn to love being active are more likely to grow up to be fit and healthy adults and experience a host of benefits including strong muscles and bones, improved cardiovascular fitness and significantly decreased risk of disease.”

BORN TO MOVE™ classes are now being launched in health and fitness clubs, community centers and education facilities around the world.

Learn more about Les Mills suite of youth programming here.