THE kids from Carlton Public School are jumping their way to good health.

Teacher Barton Williams has introduced the pogo stick as an innovative approach to fitness.

Mr Barton, a former national water ski champion and member of the Australian squad, said many elite sportspeople used pogo as part of a cross-training regime.

"It provides good balance and co-ordination," he said, and was good for a cardiovascular workout and for developing control and core strength.

The Bexley school has bought 20 pogo sticks. If the 50-minute, twice-weekly classes for year 5 and 6 students continue to prove popular there are plans to buy more.

Mr Barton is developing a pogo stick fitness program - Pogo Jump for Heart - which he hopes can be used by other interested schools.

The program will concentrate on three main areas: safety and control; endurance and skills and tricks and routines.

While the elective classes have been introduced to the school only this term, 25 children are signed up with more interested.

"We're getting good results," Mr Barton said.

"The kids' fitness levels and ability have really improved."

School principal Gavin Patterson said the students were improving every day, "jumping higher and higher".

"It's a great fun way to get fit and keep fit," he said. "It's been very popular with the kids."

A NSW Department of Education and Training spokeswoman said: "This is yet another great example of NSW public schools implementing unique and exciting programs that encourage students to engage in physical activity.

"It's wonderful to see the students at Carlton Public School taking positive steps to improve their health and fitness levels."