Boy Scouts Pack 31 members ‘Rock’ CrossFit

Jumping jacks, bear claws, squats and pushups. These were just some of the exercises the Boy Scouts in Pack 31 engaged in during a special visit to CrossFit The Rock in Rockville Centre on April 25.

“We played this game where people try and tag you and if they tag you, you have to run in line,” said Boy Scout Jack Moreback, 7, a second-grader at Francis F. Wilson Elementary School. “It helps you to be fit and when you’re bored, you can go there and it’s like a fun thing to do.”

Michael Clancy, the owner of Lynbrook Bagels and Cub Master for Pack 31, said he decided to host the CrossFit event because his son, Jack, 8, is a member of CrossFit Kids at the Rock, which is a strength and conditioning program designed specifically for children.

Under the guidance of coach Janice Moone, about 45 Boy Scouts between the ages of 5 and 10 played games, but were also taught how to hold proper forms and positions.

“It was a great night and all the boys enjoyed it,” Clancy said. “For me, it was good to see an activity that was new to 90 percent of the kids, so nobody was an all-star at anything. It was an even playing field.”

Clancy added that he thought CrossFit is great for all age groups, and is especially beneficial for children who are not inclined to play baseball, basketball or other sports. He said Moone was organized and helped keep the children attentive during the activities.

“She really is better than us at entertaining the kids for an hour and a half,” he said, adding that he may begin organizing monthly CrossFit sessions.

Jack Moreback said the event was tiring, but added that he definitely had fun. “It was like really sweaty,” he said, “but I really liked it and I would do it again.”