Recent research points out that people who were physically active as children are more likely to incorporate regular exercise into their lifestyle as adults. You are probably familiar with all the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle such as general health and fitness improvements, weight control, and reduced risk for several chronic diseases. However, when it comes to your kids’ activity needs, things tend to get a bit confusing.
Children are able to benefit from regular physical activity in many ways. As with adults, exercise can help control weight and mild hypertension, improve posture, overall physical health, strength and flexibility. In children, exercise plays an important role in the development of motor abilities and coordination. Studies have also shown that active children have better sleeping patterns and recover faster from illness. Many psychological benefits are also awarded such as improvement in body image, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Finally, participating in group activities can teach kids to interact with others, to work as a team, and to handle losing and failure.
Even though exercise brings many positive improvements to one’s life, many American children may not be getting enough of it. Cuts in physical education programs in schools and long periods spent on sedentary activities, especially during leisure time, are contributing to an increase in weight-related problems among youngsters. The current recommendation is that kids two years and older should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity activity on most days of the week.
But how can you as a parent help incorporate more activity into your kids’ life? Role modeling is an important step. Studies show that children are more likely to exercise if their parents are active. Create active games to play with your kids, encourage them to play outdoors, or include camping, hiking, swimming, or skiing into your next family vacations. Make physical activity part of your kids’ day by inviting them to join you in a walk to the grocery store, or on a bike ride at the park.
Limiting TV time may also help. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, American kids spend on average three hours a day watching TV, and around five and one half hours engaged in other sedentary behaviors (video games, computer)[1].
Another way to go is to enroll your children in organized exercise or sports programs. But remember that kids engage in these types of activities mainly to have fun, so if they don’t show interest in the sport or activity, they will eventually drop out. Also, beware of competitive sports. Some kids feel intimidated by competition and will prefer to avoid these activities altogether. This is also a great opportunity to teach your children to be good sports. Avoid putting too much focus on winning, because it can create stress and overwhelm them.
It is important to find activities that are age-appropriate for your kids. Activities that are too complicated for young children only create frustration and will turn them away from participation. Talk to them to find out what kind of activities they would enjoy, and then look for sports or exercise programs that can address their needs.