Families who work out together tend to be happier and have better communication than those that don’t. It’s a great time for a family to bond together, and it gives children and parents time to talk to each other. Kids from families that work out together are more likely to work out when they are grown.
Exercise reduces stress and depression and raises self-esteem, which could be especially helpful in a family atmosphere. Exercise naturally boosts energy levels and helps with balance and coordination, an unmeasurable benefit for children still in development.
Children are recommended to get around 60 minutes of exercise a day, and that is what families should aim for as well. Motivation may be needed to get kids to exercise. Instead of calling it “exercise”, say “play time” or being “physically active.” Make the exercise light and enjoyable, not a chore. It helps to require the television to be off for a day and reserve that day for activity.
Activities during the winter for families can include cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, bowling or indoor swimming. It is important to avoid winter blahs and instead go outside and play in the snow. That could be a great time for family activities, like having a snowball fight or building a snow fort, while keeping in shape.
During the summer, families can go for walks, hike, ride bikes, play water sports or have family basketball games. Other indoor activities can include yoga, circuit training or family dance lessons.
Busy families often have a lack of time for exercise together. Children still need to receive the right amount of exercise daily. If no time can be scheduled, try to have a block of time in the morning before school and work and at night. Just 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes at night can give a family 20 minutes of good exercise. Families could also save time, exercise and help others by participating in charity exercise events. A charity walk or run is a good way for a family to stay together and exercise.
Safety is always a concern when children exercise. When kids are doing anything like snow boarding or skiing on snow, they should wear a helmet. The same goes for when they bike. Knee pads and a helmet should be worn if a child roller-blades Sun glasses and sun screen should be used for protection from the sun. Whether it is cold or warm, kids need to stay hydrated as well.
SOURCE: Wanda Koszewski, Ph.D., nutrition specialist
