Squatting to flip over a tractor tire is just one of the many routines in CrossFit, a high-intensity workout that’s gained a following among adults.

But Cave CrossFit in West Hollywood is taking these demanding routines and adapting them for children with the launch of a program called Cave CrossFit Kids.

Co-owners Brian Jaffe and Zee Brod started the program last month in response to customer requests for courses for kids.

Jaffe said initially that the gym didn’t have the resources or the manpower to offer such a class, but it recently hired two coaches who both happened to be certified in teaching children’s programs.

“We just talked with them and set up the program quickly,” said Jaffe.

The program consists of a 30-minute class for 5- and 6-year-olds and a 45-minute class for 7- to 12-year-olds. Exercises are a modified version of what adults would do but there’s an emphasis on making each class fun.

“They’re going to be learning the basics of CrossFit,” said Jaffe. “But they’re going to be starting off using a PVC pipe instead of a barbell. … And as they advance and start getting the motions, they’ll use light medicine balls. A lot of it is like playing games that will get them active.”

That’s an important modification, said Dr. Tracy Zaslow, medical director of sports medicine and concussion program at the Children’s Orthopaedic Center at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

“The big thing is for kids to be doing all these activities with the correct form,” said Zaslow. “We don’t want kids to push through pain. … It should be fun. We don’t want them to be in a high-pressure situation.”

Last week’s debut class – sessions meet twice a week and cost $15 or $20 for a single class or $120 for an eight-week package – drew five young participants.

Brod said the hope is to get parents and children exercising at the same time.

“The whole idea behind it is that they can bond,” he said. “Parents can go and do their workouts while their kids are doing the kids’ program at the same time.”

– Subrina Hudson