Kids and Exercise

Our children’s health is in danger

In the past, children would play with their friends outside until the streetlights came on. Times have changed for the worst because now children spend hours of their time watching television, surfing the internet and playing video games. As a result of this inactivity, the incidences of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma have increased among children and teens.

Health researchers are predicting that if these current trends continue, the children that are born today will have a shorter lifespan than their parents. That is very scary to think about but fortunately, these trends can be reversed. Regular exercise is the key to preventing childhood health problems.

How much exercise should my kids be getting each day?

Health professionals have stated that children should be getting at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. This should include aerobic, muscle strengthening and bone strengthening activities. Running, walking, jogging and dancing are examples of aerobic activities. Sit-ups, push-ups and gymnastics are examples of muscle strengthening activities. Jumping rope is an activity that can strengthen the bones.

How can I get my child to exercise more?

There are several things that parents can do to get their child to exercise more. Parents should make sure that their children understand how important it is to exercise. It is also important to make sure that the time that a child spends watching television, playing video games and surfing the internet is limited.

Additionally, parents should also make exercise a family thing. If parents want their children to exercise, they have to set the example. Taking a family walk or jog is a great way for parents to exercise with their children.

Exercising is one of the keys to preventing health problems. It is up to us to get our children to become active.