Eight Ways To Get Your Kids Into Fitness
Most kids would rather watch TV all day or listen to the bells and whistles of video games than work out, so you've got your work cut out for you as a parent. The following tips can help you in your effort to get your kids into shape!
1. Be a shining example. If your children see you dazed in front of the television for hours or mesmerized by the Internet, that's what they're going to be inclined towards and you'll be in no position to tell them otherwise. Eat healthy, devote time to fitness in your own life and lead by example.
2. Don't push traditional sports. Some kids resist team sports for a number of reasons, but that doesn't mean your child can't get into being fit. Encourage them into other types of exercise like running, swimming, tennis or weight lifting. Sometimes kids feel self-conscious and nervous as a member of a team and will do much better on their own or with no pressure to perform.
3. Get in the game yourself. Kids love it when their parents play right along with them, so whatever you are encouraging your children to do, jump into it too. Make it a family affair in the backyard or at the local park and encourage every able body in your household to participate. Offer them helpful hints that only grown-ups know and have fun being a kid yourself!
4. Limit e-time. Electronics certainly have their advantages, but unfortunately fitness isn't one of them. Don't allow your kids to turn into technology drones. It's not only been shown to damage them physically by packing on pounds, but it's known to have a negative impact on their social abilities as well. Let them enjoy the company of others and fresh air as you get them into fitness.
5. Incentivise fitness. It may be necessary to pull out all the stops to convince your children to become involved in exercise and that's okay because they've probably spent a long time getting into video games and lounging. Boost their allowances, take them to spas or gyms or try a camping trip that includes hiking. Show them that it's much cooler to be strong and healthy than it is to be slouched in front of an LCD screen.
6. Don't make it Marine boot camp. Forcing kids into fitness will cause resentment and backfire, making them hate exercise! Try not to breathe down their necks or get in their faces too much as you work to convince them of the value of fitness. Be patient and understanding and your persistence will pay off. Eventually.
7. Educate your kids about the benefits of being fit. Teach them how the body works and how it works much better when it's healthy and conditioned. Let them know the dangers of obesity and video game-lethargy. Make a point of telling their pediatrician about your efforts in private and ask him or her to give a little speech to your kids, backing up your words.
8. Be positive and encouraging. Cheer your kids on with whatever fitness venue they choose and go out of your way to show your support. Parental opinions can carry a lot of weight both now and in the future; shower them with praise as they reach their fitness goals and adopt a healthier way of being.
Kids need exercise and to expand their electronic views of the world. Get them outside and get them into shape, for life.
