Children are busy, busy little people! Physical activity does so much more than provide children with an outlet for burning their endless supply of energy. Over the years, various studies on child development have been conducted to prove that physical activities for kids helps to increase confidence and self-esteem, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and also helps children perform better in a classroom setting and life in general. Healthy kids benefit emotionally, physically, and cognitively when they’re active and having a good time.
The key to encouraging children to get active is to make it fun! Adults might spend more time being active if we took this advice! When children are riding their bike, swimming in a pool, or getting active and playing fitness games at their local The Little Gym, they aren’t seeing it as a workout. They’re seeing the activity as an opportunity to play with their friends and have fun. Cardiovascular exercises, strength exercises, and stretching exercises together will help your child build a strong body and mind. Keep reading for more information about how you can incorporate workouts for kids into your family’s weekly routine.
1. Cardiovascular exercises
Biking, swimming, and running around a soccer field or basketball court are great for strengthening the heart and building endurance. The CDC recommends that children engage in 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous aerobic exercises 3 times a week. Fit this into your family’s schedule with a family soccer game, a Saturday morning bike ride, and a nice long Sunday swim! Even if finding spare time is tough, incorporate ‘sprints’ like racing to the fountain at the park or jumping rope in the yard.
2. Strength exercises
Swinging on the monkey bars at the local park, or fitness games like learning how to do a handstand at The Little Gym, not only strengthens muscles and increases bone density, it also can help with preventing future sports or non-sports related injuries. If you’re struggling with your own workout plan and making the time, invite your children to do pushups or sit ups with you!
3. Stretching exercises
Stretching is equally as important as strength and cardiovascular activities. Regular stretching helps to increase flexibility, helping children work on (or master) their splits, cartwheels, and reduces the risk of injury. Have fun with stretching by asking your child to stretch like an animal of their choice – like a cheetah stretching out after a long day running around the jungle!
Finding activities for kids and fitness games is easy! Trying these physical activities for kids can be a fun way to spend time together as a family! Healthy kids are happy kids. If you’re looking for some fun, physical activities for children 4 months through 12 years, check out The Little Gym! To find a The Little Gym location near you, click here.
