It's a
good idea for kids to do some kind of aerobic exercise two or
three times a week, for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. So how can
kids bring on the oxygen? It's not hard to do. Aerobic
activities such as swimming, basketball, ice or roller hockey,
jogging (or walking quickly), rollerblading, soccer,
cross-country skiing, biking, jumping jacks and rowing are all
great exercises. Even dancing, skipping, jumping rope, and
playing hopscotch are aerobic activities!
Children who are very overweight or not used
to exercise should begin slowly. Start with 20 minutes of
moderate activity three days a week and gradually increase the
time and intensity.
Here are some
strategies you can use to get your child exercising.
1)
Exercise with your
child. Adults and kids alike feel motivated when they have a
gym/exercise partner. Children learn by example and you can say
that you are both in the exercise boat together.
2)
Buy exercise videos or
DVDS. If you don’t want to spend money on a gym, training at
home using exercise videos is cheaper. Have a great workout - all without leaving your home.
3)
There is a wide
selection of aerobic/dance videos on the market. Bring some fun
to your child’s exercise time by having her learning how to
dance as she works out.
4)
Alternate workout
routines. One day you may choose to exercise outside, another day
inside, with friends, and or by the use of a video or audio CD.
