Getting Your Child to Exercise

If you’re like a lot of parents, you may be concerned about getting your child to exercise. They may be glued to the TV or the computer; they may be obsessive about handheld video games. Habits formed in childhood often become lifelong habits, so it’s up to you to help your child develop good habits, such as exercising.

Here are nine suggestions for getting your child to exercise:

1) Go biking together. Biking is an exercise that doesn’t put undue strain on joints, so it’s a great place to start if you’re in not-so-good shape yourself. Get to a bike trail if you can, or if not, a ride around the neighborhood will refresh you.

2) Set up a basketball hoop or tennis backboard in your yard. An item like this encourages outdoor play. If you’re an apartment dweller, take your child to the park for this type of activity. While you’re there, swing on a swing or two or encourage your child to climb the monkey bars.

3) One way of encouraging your child to exercise is by encouraging them to do dance videos with you, or just dance in general. Dancing is fun, and it’s good for both of you.

4) Not all exercise has to be sports-related. Outdoor activity such as gardening or yard work qualifies as exercise.

5) Walking is the easiest exercise to add to your routine. Involve your child in walking the dog or pushing a baby stroller. Another option is to suggest walking laps in the mall.

6) Can you talk yourself into playing? Your child will see it as a game, and you will elevate your heart rate and release tension.

7) Another activity most children like is jumping rope. This is one of my personal favorites, because you can get your heart rate up quickly.

8) Outdoor sports such as tennis, badminton or playing catch are always appreciated by children.

9) Quieter exercises such as yoga or stretching can be an easier way to start exercising if you have been sedentary.

The most important thing to remember is to set an example of good health practices yourself. If your child sees you on the couch eating potato chips with your only activity pushing the buttons of the TV remote, he is getting a message from you.

All children appreciate having an opportunity to spend more time with a parent. Getting your child to exercise is a great way to accomplish that, and it’s good for both of you, both mentally and physically.

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