WATCH: Former Royal Marine Brian's mission to get Farnham's kids moving

It’s a fact that many children nowadays are spending too much time staring at screens and not enough time being active.

Now a former Royal Marine is on a mission to change that.

Brian Stokes, 54, who also served as a firefighter, is now focusing full-time on fitness training, helping youngsters in Farnham build confidence, resilience and healthy habits.

The founder of NO BS Kids Crew at Jetts Farnham is using lessons learned during three decades of service to encourage children to step outside their comfort zones and discover what they are capable of.

“One thing I’ve learned throughout that time is simple: confidence isn’t something you’re born with,” said Brian, who lives in Woking.

“It’s built by stepping outside your comfort zone, taking on challenges and proving to yourself that you’re capable of more than you thought.”

“That’s exactly why I created NO BS Kids Crew.”

Brian wanted to create something different from a traditional sports club, where children of all abilities could exercise together while developing skills that go beyond physical fitness.

And while the sessions take place in a gym, he is keen to dispel the idea that children are being encouraged to lift heavy weights.

He said: “We’re not trying to create bodybuilders or have children lifting heavy weights. We’re teaching them to move properly. Running, jumping, pushing, pulling, carrying, crawling and working as a team.

“These are fundamental movement skills that help children become stronger, more coordinated, more athletic and far more confident in themselves.

“What we’re really developing, though, isn’t just fitness. Every session is built around the values I’ve lived throughout my career: courage, commitment, discipline, determination, teamwork, resilience and respect. Those aren’t just military values. They’re life values.”

Brian recently put that approach into practice with a NO BS Kids Crew simulation event which saw a group of youngsters tackle challenges inspired by HYROX racing.

He said: “Every single child gave everything they had. Some found it easier than others, some had moments where they wanted to stop, but every single one crossed the finish line with a huge smile because they’d achieved something they could be proud of.

“That’s what coaching should be about. Not creating perfect athletes. Creating confident young people.”

Sessions focus on natural movement, with children running, jumping, crawling and carrying as well as taking part in games such as tag and team challenges.

Children who particularly enjoy the challenge can also use the sessions as a stepping stone into HYROX YoungStars and organised events.

But for Brian, success is less about who finishes first and more about seeing children become confident enough to tackle something they previously thought they could not do.

He said: “The best part of coaching isn’t seeing who finishes first. It’s watching the child who was nervous on week one suddenly volunteer to go first. It’s seeing children encourage their teammates instead of worrying about themselves. It’s watching friendships grow and confidence develop through hard work and shared experiences.”

Brian also credited Jetts Farnham with helping him create a space where youngsters can train and develop healthy habits.

He added: “As a coach, I honestly don’t care who’s the fastest. I care who has the courage to have a go. I care who helps someone else over the finish line. I care who leaves believing in themselves just a little bit more than when they arrived. Because one day these children become adults.

“If we can help them build confidence, resilience, discipline and self-belief now, those lessons will stay with them for life.

“Whether they go on to play sport, join the Armed Forces, become teachers, business owners or simply happier, healthier adults, they’ll know they can face challenges head-on.”

For more information, visit Brian on Instagram at @brian_stokes_coaching