How to Exercise With Your Kids?

Answer 1

Exercise is important for people of all ages--including adults, teenagers, and even kids. Unfortunately, very few kids get enough exercise as recommended by the United States Government, with Video Games, sedentary activities, and just plain laziness to blame. But you needn't let your children become a statistic.

Instead of sitting on the couch all day, get active: Have your children get involved in activities that drive their heart rate up. Exercise is great for many reasons--not only does it play an active role in weight control, it also is essential for good heart health, improved self esteem, and stronger bones.

How to Exercise with Kids

Being active is important, and it's important that people of all ages--children included--stay active everyday as part of a healthy lifestyle. But obviously going to the gym or lifting weights isn't appropriate, so how can you keep them active?

1. Choose active games. No, this doesn't mean playing a boxing game on the Wii--although if it makes them move a lot, it certainly isn't a bad thing--but it does mean choosing activities that make children move around a lot. For inspiration, think of what you did as a kid: How did you pass the time as a small kid during the summer? Did you play ball, hopscotch, or did you go swimming to cool off?

Think of what games you played as a kid during the summer that kept you active, and then encourage your own kids to do the same. Kids love playing with their parents, so join in on the activity as well--such as going to the swimming pool together.

2. Use it to get somewhere. Children love to explore the world, so let them get close to nature by using exercise to get there--such as riding your bike, walking, or even hiking. By doing so, you take the emphasis off exercise--exercise alone is something kids do not like--and turn it into an adventure everyone can participate it.

3. Make it a competition. Kids love to compete--so turn their love into something active, such as a race or game. Running, playing Basketball, or playing tag are all great, competitive games that will feed your child's need for competition while keeping them active--and it will make them healthier too!

Remember, make it fun, competitive, and active for an easy way to encourage your kids to exercise all year round!