Show Your Children How to Love Exercise

And boost their confidence, brain power and health

By Erica K. Perkins, Fitness Director, University of Virginia

A pregnant woman commonly says that she doesn't care if the baby is a boy or a girl; she just wants it to be healthy. If that is the case, parents will be pleased with new research indicating that children, who have active parents even during pregnancy, will be more active and healthy throughout their life.

A parent influences their child’s perception of exercise at a very early age. Children who see their parents being physically active learn that exercising is a normal, necessary part of life. In addition, it’s great motivation for parents because the best way to get a child off the computer or TV is to invite them to go outside and play with you! 

Exercise for everyone

Exercise can occur in many forms. Some youth and teens have natural athletic ability and excel in organized sports. Those talents should be encouraged and supported. But what about those who don’t enjoy organized sports? With some planning and creativity, you can get your kids to move more without them even realizing it. And you’ll teach them one of the most valuable lessons they’ll ever learn: exercise yields self confidence, disease prevention and brain power!

Most kids like activities with their friends or believe it or not, with their parents. If you make the extra effort to be right in there with them, you will find that your enthusiasm is infectious and contagious.

Try these activities that kids love:

• games such as hide-and-seek, tag and Frisbee
• swimming
• roller-skating, ice-skating
• dancing
• hiking (explore hiking trails in the Charlottesville region)
• biking
• walking around the mall or with a family pet 
  

Kids love getting your undivided attention, which will enhance your relationship and create fun family memories. You may also be able to expose them to things they didn’t think they’d like such as an aerobics or yoga class.

Short bouts best for kids

Ideally, kids and adults need to get 30-60 minutes of moderate activity each day. Kids, however, may be more successful doing 10-15 minutes at a time as opposed to 30 continuous minutes. Walking the family dog in the morning and biking around the neighborhood or park in the afternoon is just an example.

Parents will certainly benefit from the short bouts of exercise, but they should also look to do 30 continuous minutes at least three times each week. Maybe your child can play with friends while you walk, run or take an aerobics class. Demonstrating to children that exercise is a priority in your life will ensure they make it a priority in theirs. Exercise is preventive medicine, and it’s never too late to start reaping the benefits. Make your motto: sit less and move more!