5 Powerful Ways to Instill Confidence in Kids and Teens Through Movement

Whether it’s social pressures, school stress, or lack of physical activity, many youth struggle to feel intrinsically confident and empowered in their own bodies and minds. But the good news? Confidence is a skill—one that can be nurtured, practiced, and built. At Urban Youth Park, we believe physical movement is one of the most naturally-effective and stimulating ways to develop that skill.

Here are 5 research-backed ways to help your child build confidence—and how the unique benefits of parkour and being part of an uplifting movement-based community instills everlasting confidence.

1. Set and Celebrate Small Achievements

Progressing through physical challenges is a powerful way to reinforce self-belief.

In parkour, success comes in stages. Whether it’s learning how to land safely, vault over a wall, or master an acrobatic skill, each win builds momentum—and confidence.

Why it works: Research from the American Psychological Association shows that goal-setting and achieving small wins improves self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to succeed—which directly contributes to long-term confidence (Bandura, 1997).

In action at Urban Youth Park: Every step on the road of progression is celebrated. Our coaches highlight progress, not perfection, teaching kids that growth matters more than outcome.

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2. Encourage Risk in a Safe Environment

Confidence grows when kids are allowed to take smart risks and push their boundaries—with guidance and support.

Why it works: A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that physical play and risk-taking in safe environments contribute significantly to children’s resilience and self-confidence (Brussoni et al., 2021).

In action at Urban Youth Park: Parkour naturally challenges comfort zones—mentally and physically. Kids learn to assess risk, make decisions, and overcome fear in a controlled, coach-supported and guided space. That moment of landing a skill they once feared or overcoming a jump that was once beyond their ability? Confidence = unlocked every time.

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3. Reframe Failure as Feedback

One of the most important lessons in movement training: failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of it.

Why it works: Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset shows that children who view challenges and mistakes as opportunities to grow are significantly more confident and persistent in problem-solving (Dweck, 2006).

In action at Urban Youth Park: When a move doesn’t go as planned, our coaches don’t say, “You failed.” Instead, it’s “here’s what you did great, here’s what we can improve upon. Let’s try that on the next one!” This mindset rewires how kids see setbacks, helping them approach life’s obstacles with curiosity, not fear. Along with this positive and constructive response to mistakes, we emphasize the ability to prepare for potential mistakes before approaching a new skill or challenge. Ukemi, the art of falling safely, is a focus of our class-program. The knowledge that one can react safely to a fall brings a profound sense of confidence as our students overcome the fear of falling.

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4. Foster Positive Peer Connections

Being part of a supportive community helps kids feel seen, valued, and inspired.

Why it works: Social belonging is a foundational pillar of confidence. A study from Child Development revealed that peer acceptance and positive social experiences significantly boost self-esteem in youth (Wentzel & Asher, 1995).

In action at Urban Youth Park: Our classes encourage teamwork, peer support, and shared challenges. Lots of High-fives, cheers, and authentic connections happen daily. Our students are taught to value their classmates success and support each other, resulting in a community of genuine encouragement all around. When kids feel like they belong, they show up more boldly—in parkour and in life.

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5. Link Physical Movement to Mental Strength

Physical fitness and skill-building have a direct link to improved mood, focus, and self-image.

Why it works: Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine, which improve mood and mental well-being. A review in Pediatrics found that children who engage in regular physical activity report higher self-esteem and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety (Biddle & Asare, 2011).

In action at Urban Youth Park: Our parkour classes aren’t just workouts—they’re confidence labs. Kids leave feeling stronger, happier, and more capable. That energy carries into the classroom, friendships, and beyond.

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Moving with Confidence

At Urban Youth Park, we’re more than just a gym. We’re a launchpad for kids and teens to discover what they’re capable of. Through movement, mentorship, and a motivating community, we help young people build real, lasting confidence—one jump, vault, and high-five at a time.

Ready to get your child moving with confidence?

Come try a trial class at your nearest UYP location and see the difference movement can make.

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References:

• Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. New York: Freeman.

• Brussoni, M., Olsen, L. L., Pike, I., & Sleet, D. A. (2021). Risky play and children’s safety: Balancing priorities for optimal child development. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 660377. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.660377

• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

• Wentzel, K. R., & Asher, S. R. (1995). The academic lives of neglected, rejected, popular, and controversial children. Child Development, 66(3), 754-763.

• Biddle, S. J. H., & Asare, M. (2011). Physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents: A review of reviews. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(11), 886–895. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2011-090185