Physical Fitness for Kids

Encourage Kids Health and Fitness with Physical Exercise

Regular Kids Exercise is Vital to Good Health - emrank

Physical activity is good for kids in numberous ways. Children who take part in regular exercise or sports activity are better able to build a strong body, keep a healthy weight, learn in school, feel less stressed, sleep at night, and improve their self-confidence and self-esteem.

Kids' Exercise -- How Much?

The American Heart Association recommends that children and teens take part in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. But with television and video games competing for a child’s time and attention, how do parents get their children moving? Remember that these 60 minutes of activity don’t have to be one continuous block of time. Consider a child’s activity throughout the course of the day – free play time, activities at school, and activity classes or organized sports.

Encouraging Healthy Children

Here are some suggestions for adding physical exercise to a child’s day:

• Set the timer and put a limit on the amount of television watching, computer time or video game playing that a child can do.
• Be a role model of the active lifestyle. Actions speak louder than words, and children will be inclined to follow the example of their active parents. Don’t make the physical exercise seem like punishment or something to be endured. A healthy body is a good thing, so enjoy it and let your sports activity be fun.
• Provide the right equipment. Some sports for kids can be expensive when a parent adds up the cost of lessons, equipment, and time spent at a sports facility. But basic equipment for kids fitness, like balls or jump ropes, doesn’t have to be costly.
• Find fun things to do together as a family. Consider these fitness activities that family members of different ages could do together: biking, hiking, gardening, playing Frisbee, swimming, dancing, jumping rope, skating, canoeing, playing tag, bowling, table tennis, or simply taking a walk.

Choosing the Right Fitness Activities

While any physical activity is good, some children enjoy more competitive, organized sports. For those children, consider activities like these: baseball, softball, football, gymnastics, golf, martial arts, tennis, soccer, or hockey.

What if a child isn’t the active, competitive type? Physical exercise is still a healthy goal and can be done in ways that are fun for the child. Steer clear of the organized leagues or competitive programs for kids, where a child might be overwhelmed by the gung ho coaches or the superior athletes. Instead focus on the fun fitness activities. Play catch, ride bikes, or shoot baskets at home. Take a walk or go for a jog. Look for the activities where there are no winners or losers – just a chance to have fun and be active.

What if a child has a disability? Physical activity is good for everyone, so talk to the doctor about appropriate physical activities for children with disabilities.