How To Encourage Children To Be More Physically Fit
In today's sedentary society, many parents worry about the physical health and well-being of their children, who are very susceptible to diabetes and heart conditions as a result of their sedentary lifestyles and lack of physical activity. By following these simple tips, you can get your children up and moving, meaning they will spend less time on the computer or in front of the tv, and more time being physically active and healthy.
Be a role model. Lead by example, so that your younger children are more inclined to join you as you exercise, and continue exercising on their own later in life. Eat healthy foods, and choose water over soda or other sugary drinks. Start every morning with a run, and walk in the evenings when the weather is fair. Include them on your walks, and invite them on your runs if they are older.
Have times in your house when you turn off computer, gaming console, smart phone, and TV screens. This gives your children little to do inside, and encourages them to go outside to entertain themselves. In the winter, set this time to be while the sun is still out, and there are still daylight hours. If you choose later hours, it is unlikely there will be much for them to do outside in the dark.
Buy active-lifestyle video games that require kids to be up off the couch to play. These include the Wii, and Kinect. Both of these game consoles can be utilized for fun and exercise at the same time, and are great for cold or rainy days when there isn't much to do outside.
Set a physical activity routine that includes daily stretching, an evening walk or run, or family games outside in your yard. These are very effective at getting children involved in physical activity, as they become accustomed to having to exercise each day.
Don't try to make them exercise, encourage them to play. Playing naturally burns calories and encourages physical activity. If you force your children to exercise, it will appear as if you were running a boot camp, instead of a playful environment.
Let your children choose what physical activity they do. Some children naturally prefer hiking or walking to organized sports. Others like to swim, whereas some children are naturally afraid of water. By giving them a choice, you will encourage them to find an activity they like and stick to it.
Encourage your children to join organized sports teams. These can be classes in martial arts or gymnastics, or team sports like baseball or basketball. Encourage your child to be involved in multiple teams or sports per year, so they have very little 'off season' time. Not only will this help them make friends, but it can encourage them to develop teamwork skills.
Despite the trend of sedentary lifestyles among today's youth, a lack of physical activity is bad for kids. If you put forth a concerted effort, however, you can make them happy and active, and improve their overall health.
