Written by Article by Arnold Davies
A common notion is that physical fitness is something that concerns only adults. When years of job-related stress, of physical inactivity, and of careless and unhealthy diet have finally resulted into cardiovascular problems and obesity, that is when one should go on a fitness program. This has virtually relegated physical fitness to an activity that benefits only the mature age groups. A longer look at the conditions of kids today, however, will certainly change that.
The amount of food plays an important role in fitness for kids as people often overfeed their children. The extra weight not only weighs the child down but can also cause fatigue, slow reaction time, muddled thinking that can all lead to a low performance or worse still, an injury.
Regular Exercise – The key to staying fit and healthy for both adults and children alike is to exercise regularly. Try to schedule exercise activities (whatever they might be) at regular intervals but do let your kids set the pace. As soon as a child feels they are being forced to take part in a ‘fitness’ regime then you may start to get some resistance and refusal to join in.
When pairing regular physical fitness with healthy eating habits, you set your child on the right track of eliminating the chances of obesity throughout their whole lives. And hey, it’ll make you get up and get some physical activity as well! No matter how tired work may get you, physical fitness will pump you up full of energy to keep up with those kiddos!
Another positive aspect of group exercise is social reinforcement. Since basketball is a team sport, it is very easy to get other kids involved in the game. It can be played by yourself or up to ten people at a time. When this many children are involved it emphasizes the “fun” aspect of the game. Kids see other kids working as a team and having fun.
Be an Example: Your kids will probably follow this rule: They will do about 80% of what you do right but 100% of what you do wrong. If there are no leagues available, you still need to get out there and exercise. Join a gym, go for a walk, let your kids see you trying to stay fit and they will most likely follow your example.
Talk to the School: Some schools do not require physical education after a certain grade. Part of that is because high school students may need the extra class time to qualify for college. On the other hand, stopping PE often means a stop to any form of physical activity. It might be better in the long run for all grades to have PE as a requirement.
Start your kids out young with exercise. If it has become a part of their normal every day life, chances are that they will keep the good habits that they have developed. Get your kids moving and eating right. Another one of the best exercises for kids is to learn self-discipline and self-control. Your kids are going to feel better, look better and have a healthier self-esteem. Have fun with your kids and have fun with fitness!
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