Kids and Exercise
This morning as I prepared for my day, I watched the news. I don’t often watch Fox News in the morning, yet today I tuned in to hear the segment about Kids and Exercise. Parenting expert Lynne Griffin (http://www.lynnegriffin.com/) was talking about the types of activities that are appropriate for children at various ages.
So often I hear parents talking about how they don’t have time to exercise because the kids keep them so busy. Yet, there are a variety of activities that can be done together so the entire family is staying active and healthy. Lynne provided some tips on how to know when your child is ready for different fitness activities.
Here is what she shared:
- Step up your child’s routine when he/she is physically capable AND emotionally ready for the new activity
- Keep fun factor high
- Exercise as a family
- Make exercise a habit and not a once in a while occurrence
- Balance exercise with healthy eating.
Since I’m not a parent and don’t have experience in this area, I was expecting some earth shattering advice to pass on. I realized these tips are not new. In fact, Mom and Dad you’ve probably heard this advice for your own exercise and wellness program. Whether you’re a child or an adult, fitness can be fun. It will keep you motivated and more likely to continue the activity. Remaining active as a family ensures that you spend quality time with your children, too.
Family activities to consider include hiking or nature walks, bike rides, swimming, rock climbing gyms (depending on the age of your child, these gyms often have kids programs), kayaking, canoeing, or yoga to name a few.
Balance the activity with healthy eating options and your family will be well on its way to healthy living.
Not sure what’s right for your child? Consider asking them if there are any activities they enjoy, or consult a fitness professional who has experience working with children. Nowadays after school programs are incorporating yoga, martial arts, dance and other active and fitness related activities.
Children should be having fun, and Mom and Dad there’s no rule that says you can’t have some fun with them.
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