Children And Exercise

First of all, let me say how important it is for children to participate in some sort of exercise. Although I do not know the specific studies, everyone knows that children demonstrate what they see and what they hear is a distant secondary. Children live by example. The Bible clearly states that you must train up a child (Proverbs 22:6). Therefore, the same applies to exercise. A child that sees their parents continually being active will more likely be active.Check outExercise Equipment for Children

When it comes to children, there is no law that says it has to be structured such as going to a class or to the gym. Even if they are outside running around at the park for a while, it is better than no exercise at all. The amount of time will depend on the age of the child. A toddler won't be able to last as long as a teenager.

However, I personally believe that structured classes and exercises can prove to be invaluable to a child's mental as well as physical development. Attributes such as discipline, commitment, recognition, hard work, healthy competition, being a good teammate and many more can be gained through the involvement of a structured class.

Exercise, if possible, should be looked on as something that brings excitement to the child. If your child is rambunctious and won’t settle down at home, it can be due to the fact that they are not getting enough exercise. Try getting them involved in play dates where they can run, jump, and play. They will enjoy many of the same benefits that adults enjoy as a direct result of exercise and possibly be better behaved.

When your child is exercising be sure to provide necessary breaks and fluids to prevent dehydration. They will let you know when they are tired and need a break. The main goal is to make it fun.

Unfortunately, we have allowed the television, video games and the computer not only to be a part of our lives, but we have allowed them to consume the lives of our children. Our children of this generation have become a generation of couch potatoes. They are the most overweight generation ever. There is no reason why we should not turn this trend around.

I believe that when your body is active your brain can and will be more active. I remember when there was a time that children used to be outside all of the time running around playing outside and the park was full of children. Now you never see kids out and if there are children at the park, there are not very many playing.

Use exercise as a way to spend quality time with your child. Exercising such as a bike ride, swimming, playing ball can be a tremendous way to bond with your child. It is one way that your child will realize that their interests can be the same as your interest. For example, if you spend an hour playing ball with your child then they most likely will be more willing to help you with something later on. This way both you and your child will benefit.


Take a moment to write down the following

Write down ways in which you can involve your children in exercise.

In what ways have you encouraged your children to exercise with you?


How are your children's eating habits?