FAST provides a creative and innovative approach that is designed to transform adolescent reckless and impulsive behavior into a constructive alternative that enhances their overall well-being. First, being physically active for youth decreases depression and anxiety symptoms, (Monshouwer, Have, Poppel, Kemper & Vollerbergh, 2001).

Second, there are a multitude of evidenced-based therapeutic techniques at work, such as Mindfulness, which encourages individuals to focus on the “here and now” of the activity. Mindfulness has countless benefits to mental health (Davis & Hayes, 2012). While snowboarding, it essentially forces the youth to be in the moment, which causes the client to be more grounded, in control, and less anxious. Exposure helps youth face their anxieties – a fear of heights, for example. Doing activities for the first time can be scary; therefore, exposing youth can decrease fear and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, encourage youth to reaffirm their thinking that they can accomplish the task. Lastly, simple behaviorism is encouraged with positive praise and reward.

Thirdly, MacKay and Neill (2009) discovered being outdoors in nature while engaging in exercise were correlated with a decrease in anxiety. when people feel confident in facing their fears, they are providing evidence they can accomplish challenging tasks, which can have major mental health benefits (Brymer & Schweitzer, 2013b). Research has shown that “people seriously involved in action sports have lower anxiety, are more independent and self-assertive, and have a higher sense of reality” (Brymer & Schweitzer, 2013). Because any skill level can participate, these activities are powerful and have virtually limitless methods for individual engagement. The program is based on a growing body of knowledge about adolescent development, neurobiology, trauma, and risk-taking behaviors.

Learning new and challenging tasks instills self-efficacy. Partaking in a safe atmosphere that encourages positivity increases pro-social skills. Being outdoors enhances our well-being. Learning evidence-based coping techniques enhances our emotional regulation.

Access

FAST encourages ALL youth from 13 to 18 to participate. We provide all the essentials necessary for someone to learn, with no prior experience, to advance the already advanced. Whether you have the funds or not we will remove all the barriers so everyone has access. All the youth needs to do to is exert their effort.

Implement

Whether on the mountains, lake, trails, FAST conducts group sessions with evidence-based teachings that improve the well-being of each youth. All youth, regardless of ability, can learn whatever action sport they choose as long as they exert effort and practice the skills. Healthy role models will encourage them as well as professional instructors.

Grow

After 7 weeks of learning, youth have the opportunity to learn a new action sport, advance their skills or become a youth mentor and help others learn how to perform adequately and safely.