Youth Classes
In NYC’s competitive culture, kids are often funneled into specific sports or dance styles early, focusing on academic and athletic specialization. While this may enhance school applications, it can limit their overall physical and mental development. Alongside the typical challenges of growth and puberty, children face risks like repetitive stress injuries and psychological strain from an intense focus on a single discipline.
At Esquina, our Youth Programs offer more than just another sports or dance class—they address the crucial developmental phase impacting teens’ physiology, psychology, and personality. Our holistic approach balances fun and socialization with training, teaching kids how to care for their bodies while enjoying a positive and engaging environment. Whether your child is already involved in a sport or dance, interested in learning gym workouts, or eager to explore new techniques, our classes provide a supportive, well-rounded experience that fosters growth, wellness, and social connections.
2024 Fall/Winter Semester
Monday September 16, 2024 — Friday January 17, 2025
Open House Mon 9/16 - Wed 9/18
This is the perfect opportunity for your child to try all three of our classes, completely risk-free.
2025 Winter/Spring Semester
Monday January 27, 2025 — Friday June 13, 2025
We do not have classes during NYC DOE breaks and holidays.
How to Register Your Child
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Create a MindBody Account
An Esquina MindBody account is required to register your child.
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Log Into Your MindBody Account
You will need to log in to your account to add family members.
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Add a Family Member
In the Account Info screen's Family section, click the Add Family button.
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Youth Strength & Athletic Development
Mondays 4:30-5:30pm (ages 12-17)
Our Youth Strength and Athletic Development class helps young athletes enhance their performance and skills with a focus on strength, agility, speed, and endurance through dynamic workouts, sports drills, and team challenges.
Students will develop:
• Proper weightlifting form
• Safe & effective training techniques
• Coordination
• Strategic thinking
• Teamwork skills
With expert coaching and a supportive environment, our class prepares teens to excel in both individual and team sports.
Open House Mon 9/16
This is the perfect opportunity for your child to try all three of our classes, completely risk-free.
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Youth Strength & Mobility for Dancers & Performers
Tuesdays 4:30-5:30pm (ages 12-17)
Our Youth Strength and Mobility for Dancers and Performers class, led by former New York City Ballet dancer and personal trainer Katie Bergstrom, is expertly designed for young dancers and performers. This class emphasizes building strength and enhancing mobility with exercises tailored to the physical demands of dance and performance.
Students will develop:
• Increased muscular strength specific to performance needs
• Enhanced joint & ligament stability
• Greater mobility (strength within end ranges of flexibility)
• Effective injury prevention techniques
• A balanced & resilient physique
With Katie’s professional expertise and a focus on a supportive & educational environment, this class equips students with a solid physical foundation to excel in their artistic pursuits.
Open House Tues 9/17
This is the perfect opportunity for your child to try all three of our classes, completely risk-free.
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Youth Capoeira Angola
Wednesdays 4:30-5:30pm (ages 7-12)
Our Youth Capoeira Angola class is an introduction to the vibrant Afro-Brazilian art form made up of unique and exciting elements: acrobatics, animal movements, attacks & defenses, musical instruments and Portuguese songs.
Students will develop:
• A strong and healthy body
• Improved physical coordination
• Better mind-body awareness
• Emotional resilience & regulation
• Understanding of cultural diversity appreciation
This class fosters physical and personal growth while connecting students to a global Capoeira community through dynamic and rich experiences. Youth typically reach the first level after about 6 months of consistent practice, with further progress taking additional time.
Open House Wed 9/18
This is the perfect opportunity for your child to try all three of our classes, completely risk-free.
Affordable Access to Youth Programs
At Esquina, we’re committed to making movement accessible to every child. We offer scholarships, work-study opportunities, and sliding scale options to help cover the cost of youth classes. We’re here to support you—reach out to learn more about how we can help.