How to encourage exercise
Like adults, it is vital that children remain fit and healthy. However, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, only 50% of boys and less than 34% of girls aged 12 to 15 are adequately fit. Like adults, the risks associated with insufficient exercise can be severe. Not only do cardiovascular and chronic diseases become more likely, but so do psychological disorders, including anxiety and depression.
What’s more, research indicates that 80% of overweight children become obese adults. So, if your child tends not to exercise enough, there is a high probability that this pattern will extend into adulthood, unless there is swift intervention. Luckily, you can buck the trend. By getting them moving, you can instil the habits that lead to lifelong health. But it’s hard enough to motivate ourselves to get moving, so how can we go about encouraging exercise in our children? Here are some top tips to help you.
Whether it is a positive or negative behaviour, children love to imitate those around them. So, if your kids see you exercising and enjoying yourself, they are far more likely to be active and remain active throughout their lives.
Linked to the point above, you don’t want your kid to feel like they’re alone in their exercise journey. So, invite everyone to participate in group sport, be it tennis, football, swimming or even just frisbee in the park.
No one said that being active has to all be blood, sweat and tears. Your kid is more likely to stick to an exercise routine if it is enjoyable to do. Whether it is a game of football or just a dance party, there are many ways you can get your kid smiling and moving. So, turn on the music, get down to the mini-golf course or simply play a game of duck duck goose together.
The biggest obstacle to your child’s exercise journey will be sedentary, alternative activities. It might be the phone, the PlayStation, or the TV – anything that keeps your kid on the couch is going to be detrimental to their health. It is sensible, therefore, to replace those video games with gifts that encourage movement. Make sure whatever you choose fits what your child likes. No point getting rollerblades if they are just going to sit in the attic, gathering dust.
Kids are notoriously competitive. You can use this to your advantage to get them active, and then keep them exercising. Make it a contest between you and your children to see who can run the fastest or the longest, who can do the most press ups or jumping jacks, or who can score the most penalties in the garden. Establish the competition by recording the results. This will increase their enthusiasm for exercise whilst showing all the family their progress.
Remember that each child is unique, and these tips cannot necessarily be generalised to everyone. For an exact diagnosis and treatment, tailored to your child, we recommend that you reach out to a professional to work with your child.
By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our company.
