NoExcusesGym

Parents have a great opportunity to harness the natural energy children have and instill lifelong habits that will keep them active as they grow older. Regular exercise is as important for children as it is for adults because the problem of being overweight affects both groups.
Be Your Child’s Role Model — Or Any Child’s Role Model
Parents can encourage children more effectively to stay active by setting a good example, rather than telling children what to do. If they want to give their children a reason for staying active, they should focus on the need to feel good and stay healthy, instead of drawing attention to body image.

There are many ways that parents can model good health behaviors, while getting some health benefits for themselves at the same time. Some ideas are:

- Put your very young child in a stroller and go for a walk. Or strap your child into a bicycle carrier with a helmet and go for a ride.

- Jog alongside or get on your own bicycle, if your child can ride a bike.

- Limit the amount of time you watch television. By doing this, you will find it easier to limit the amount of time your child watches TV, movies, or video and computer games.

- Stretch or exercise while watching TV.

- Engage the whole family in physical activities, like Frisbee, playing catch, hiking, gardening, swimming, or rollerblading.

- Sign up for exercise classes like kickboxing or join a sports team. Then sign your children up for classes or team sports.

- Give children rewards, such as a basketball, that encourage them to be more active.

Click here for more information and motivation.

(by Marcela Vanharova)