Making Your Kids Love Exercise
By Brandi Goodman
Lots of kids (and adults) grumble and groan when the word "exercise" is mentioned. It sounds like a tough chore rather than something fun. That doesn't have to be the case, though! You can make your kids love exercise by encouraging them to engage in activities they actually enjoy rather than ones they dread.
Play With Them
Exercise isn't always enjoyed alone. If your kiddos don't want to do certain activities by themselves, then join them. Play with them and enjoy some fitness time together. Playing at the park is a great exercise opportunity for you both. Get on the swings and see who can go higher. Race across the monkey bars to see who makes it faster. Play a round of catch together.
Try a Fitness Game
Lots of kids love games. Video games can help them stay engaged with the activity you're trying to get them to do -- like exercise. The Wii Fit allows you to dodge, dip, bend, step, and move in various ways to avoid obstacles and make it through fitness activities. PlayStation Move and Xbox Kinect also provide options like this. Try the available fitness games with your kids and help get them moving and having fun.
Take a Family Bike Ride
Riding bikes really works the core and legs. It's a great exercise that burns plenty of calories. Kids often enjoy bike riding, but not everyone wants to do it alone. Turn it into a family activity by taking a weekly bike ride together. Ride around the neighborhood or head to the nearest park.
Gift Them With Fitness
When it comes time for gifts (birthdays, Christmas, just because) you should opt for fitness-related options for your kids. Give your child a pair of rollerblades, a jump rope, a soccer ball, or something else they might enjoy. They may be encouraged to get out and give their new gift a try.
Plan a Fitness Vacation
Don't take a vacation with your kids where all you do is sit at the hotel. Sure, it can be nice to sit and relax a while, but planning a fitness vacation where you get to try a new activity and explore the area is even more enjoyable. Go to an amusement park where you'll spend all day walking and riding rides. Go camping and kayak. Take a hiking trip. There are so many fun and fit ways to vacay.
Children require daily exercise to grow and develop strong bones and muscles. Help them see the joy in the process so they start having a desire for fitness they can take into adulthood. Finding the delight in exercise should be everyone's goal.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.