Physical Activity and Exercise for Children
Improve Kid's, Teen's and the Whole Family's Health With Movement
Oct 12, 2009
Exercise is a vitally important component of any health person’s life. Adults reap all kinds of benefits from regular exercise including improved mental function and better overall health. For children the benefits of exercise can go even further.
Children who begin exercising at an early age find the habit a much easier one to keep up for the rest of their lives. Early involvement in a sport can help a child become more confident and provide an appropriate outlet for pent up energy. Children who start exercise will run much lower risks of obesity, cancers and debilitating chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
Start Exercise Early
Experts suggest beginning exercise for children at two. Two year olds can learn simple routines at a local fitness class or enjoy a nearby age appropriate playground. Older children can also start an exercise routine whether at home or during recess.
A good way to encourage a child to exercise is to start an exercise plan. Help be a role model to illustrate proper technique and timing. Take out books and videos from the library to learn how to exercise better. Set aside a specific time of day each day to exercise. Practice technique.
Consider purchasing scaled down equipment so children can participate in any home exercise activities. The purchase can be as inexpensive as a pair of very light weights so the child can do a simple strength training workout as an adult works out with them. Other low priced equipment may include a step for aerobics, a barre for ballet training or a second hand bike attached to an easy to set up stand and turned into an home exercise bike. A jump rope, yoga ball and exercise mat are also good choices that are easy to use.
Adopt a Dog
Even the family pet can help a child get exercise. Consider purchasing a dog. Older children can walk the dog every day. Learning how work with a dog can improve a child’s coordination. Controlling the animal’s behavior can help a child develop upper body strength. Even being outside and playing games such as tug of war can add to a child’s daily activity list.
Team sports are another excellent way for a child to get his share of weekly exercise. Many schools have teams the child can join where a child can interact with other students after school in a safe environment. School sports can provide an outlet for working off frustrations and even lead to a college scholarship. Chose wisely though. Some school sports teams may have many teammates and your child’s actual time on the field may be minimal. Other sports such as gymnastics may be dangerous unless a child is closely supervised.
Look for little ways to incorporate physical activity into a child's day and the entire family's day. Start an exercise plan, purchase inexpensive exercise equipment and bring children to playgrounds. Think about buying a dog and getting a child involved in team sports. Small steps now will have big dividends for the rest of a child's life.
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