Treadmills and lifting weights come to mind when most adults think about exercise. For kids, exercise can be as simple as playing and being physically active. Exercise can happen at recess, home, playing tag with friends or riding bikes. Unfortunately, video games, watching television and spending time online have replaced the hours of outdoor playtime that we used to enjoy as children. But there are simple and easy ways to get your kids moving again.
Setting a good example is key. If you want active kids, be active yourself. Parents are the primary role models for their children, and a parent’s active lifestyle is a powerful stimulus for them. Go for a brisk walk, ride your bike or spend some time gardening. Invite your kids to join you for these activities. You can set goals and have everyone track their progress.
For many kids, organized sports are a great way to stay fit, but team sports or dance classes are not the only options. If your child does not enjoy these activities, take a nature hike to collect leaves and rocks. Head to the neighborhood park to climb and run around on the play equipment. If your child likes to read, walk or bike to the library for a book. Every child is wired differently. They all have certain strengths and characteristics that influence their interests. The key is finding things that your child likes to do, and then incorporate movement into those activities.
Smaller children love challenges. Instead of walking to the bus stop, challenge them to hop there. On rainy days, set-up a scavenger hunt in the house and have them run around and search for the items. Turn up their favorite music and have a dance contest. Don’t forget about classic movement games such as Simon says or Red Light, Green Light.
As the weather warms for spring, purchase some inexpensive jump ropes and hula-hoops. Have a family challenge each week to see who can jump the longest or who can jump the most amount of times in one minute. Hula-hoops provide wonderful exercise and a lot of laughs. You might find your kids practicing throughout the week for the big contest. Make a new tradition this summer by gathering some neighbors for a weekend game. Set a time each week and gather for activities whether it’s baseball, kickball, soccer or whatever you choose. It will not only get everyone involved in a fitness activity, it will also foster new and lasting relationships with your neighbors, helping to build a strong community. After the game, have the children get creative by making up silly relay races in the backyard. Incorporating physical activity into your children’s lives does much more than promote a healthy weight; it sets the foundation for a lifetime of fitness and good health.
Carey Kidwell is a certified personal trainer at the Bear-Glasgow YMCA.
