4 Benefits of Exercise for your Child

You know that exercise is good for you, but what about your child? If she isn’t getting enough exercise, you must take steps to change that right away. Exercise is essential to your child’s health. Here are 4 more reasons why your child benefits from a regular exercise routine:

1. Exercise reduces the risk of obesity. If your child participates in a regular exercise program, her chances of becoming obese are dramatically reduced. An active child equals a healthier child.

2. Exercise decreases the risk of diseases. Diabetes and high blood pressure are combated by exercise. If you have a family history of such diseases, you should help your child to develop good exercise habits.

3. Exercise strengthens your child’s body. As your child exercises on a frequent basis, his muscles and bones will become stronger.

4. Exercise induces feelings of well-being. This is especially important to a child who is struggling with peer pressure or body image. Encourage an exercise routine. Exercising helps release frustrations and can help boost your child’s self-confidence.

Need some exercise ideas to encourage your child? Why not incorporate an exercise routine into your schedule with your children? Try these simple ideas:

WALKING – Walking is the easiest, and one of the best forms of exercise for anyone. Walking is a good way to encourage a conversation as well.

SPORTS – If your child is interested in sports, you have an easy job. Just offer to take them out every weekend and play. Whether basketball or tennis, or any of a dozen other one-on-one type sports. Even just catch.

SWIMMING – Just about every kid loves to swim. If you don’t have one of your own, invest in a monthly membership to a local gym.

BIKE RIDING – Close behind walking, riding bikes is another easy way to get fun exercise.

HIKING – If your family loves the outdoors, get everyone a pair of hiking boots and a backpack and get moving. Plan special outings once a month, over and above your regular exercise. Children love hiking because they get to explore and observe new things.

GEOCACHING - This is {related to|based on} hiking, but has a "mission" or purpose. There are other resources that can explain what geocaching is, and your kids will probably love this activity.