Youth Policy in Remscheid: From Calisthenics to Coaching – Impulses in February 2026

Youth Policy in Remscheid: From Calisthenics to Coaching – Impulses in February 2026

Youth policy in Remscheid in February 2026 is characterized by concrete projects, active participation, and a clear focus on the future viability of young people. The Youth Council, as a central actor in youth participation, has set not only sporting, but also social and political impulses during this time.

Calisthenics as an Inclusive Sport for Remscheid

A central topic at the Youth Council meeting on 17.02.2026 was the proposal to establish a Calisthenics installation in Remscheid-Lüttringhausen. Calisthenics, a form of exercise that requires no additional equipment and uses body weight, is particularly accessible for families with limited financial resources and working youth. The proposal demonstrates how the city of Remscheid is mindful of creating sports offerings that are not only health-promoting, but also socially compatible.

In the discussion, safety aspects such as lighting and surveillance were considered, showing that the Youth Council has not only sporting, but also societal and preventive goals in mind. Possible locations, including the main train station, were discussed, underlining the importance of central, easily accessible places for youth. The Youth Council subsequently formed a project group to further develop the proposal and reach out to responsible departments such as the Sports Department and those in charge of recreational areas.

Youth Welfare Committee: New Leadership and Stronger Participation

In the Youth Welfare Committee, Mathias Heidtmann (CDU) has established himself as a new chairperson, elected on 28.01.2026 for the period until 2028. Heidtmann emphasizes during his term that the Youth Council should clearly identify the needs of young people and take political action. His statement clarifies that youth participation is not only a formal right, but a central task of municipal democracy.

In the committee itself, the increased need for psychological support for young people was discussed. This reflects a current societal development in which mental health is increasingly coming into focus. The positive feedback from the closing seminar from 06.02. to 08.02.2026 shows that such offerings are both content-wise and organizationally aligned with the needs of young people.

Youth Participation in a Structured Framework

The election of the 12th Youth Council, with 65 young people applying, underlines the attractiveness and relevance of the Youth Council in Remscheid. A coaching day for the new Youth Council is planned for 21.02.2026, showing that the city is not only committed to participation, but also to qualification.

Project groups such as a podcast and anti-racism initiatives are examples of the diversity of the Youth Council's work. The planned podcast episode and school events on the topics of racism and democracy show how the Youth Council is both creatively and politically engaged. This work is continued through the "school tour" in January 2026, during which the Youth Council was present at various schools – another step toward a broad, school-based youth participation.

Outlook: From the Project Group to a Public Event

The planned public day in March 2026, a play and sports event at the Friesenhalle, is another milestone. Such events not only create a space for encounters and activities, but also for political messages and social responsibility. They are a sign that youth policy in Remscheid does not take place in the background, but is at the center of public life.

Looking ahead, it will be important to carry forward the experiences from the project groups and meetings and translate them into concrete projects. The Calisthenics installation, the coaching day, and the public event are just a few examples of how the Youth Council of Remscheid is setting impulses – and how these impulses can lead to a vibrant, inclusive, and democratic youth policy.