Related articles
Regular physical activity for children improves strength, builds lean muscle, and decreases body fat. It also builds stronger bones that last a lifetime. Your child's physical well-being also affects him/her emotionally and mentally. Physical activity can improve your child's mood, reduce stress and depression, and increase self-esteem. You must acknowledge your role in your child's understanding of physical activity and healthy growth. You can help your child maintain a physically active lifestyle by providing encouragement and opportunities for physical activity. Families can plan outings and events that allow and encourage everyone in the family to be active.
Physical Fitness is beneficial to the mind and body. At an early age, children should be active and involved in fun and challenging activities. Better yet, participate in exercises with your children whenever possible.
"Deep Breather"
Stand tall with knees bent. Rise on the toes and slowly circle arms inward and upward until the arms are straight overhead. Inhale deeply. Circle the arms backward and downward while lowering the heels and exhaling. Repeat five times.
"Swing March"
Stand up straight with feet wide apart, hands at sides. Alternate right and left arms in forward circular movements. At the same time, lift the opposite knee so that when the right arm is raised, the left knee is raised, and vise versa. Repeat ten times, then try to raise arms going backwards, like the backstroke.
"Bird Jumps"
This is a jump rope activity that will allow your child to be physically active. Tell your child to jump rope with his toes pointing inward. Then have your child jump the rope with his toes pointing outward. Have your child alternating between toes pointing in and out.
Regular Activity in Childhood and Adolescence
1. Improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
2. Promotes a healthy heart.
3. Increases self-esteem.
4. Helps control stress.
5. Reduces feelings of anxiety and depression.
6. Helps control weight.
7. Helps build strong and healthy bones and muscles.
8. Increases energy level and improves strength and endurance.
9. Reduces risk of developing colon cancer and coronary heart disease.
Possible Physical Activities Include
1. Dance
2. Basketball
3. Volleyball
4. Racquetball
5. Tennis
6. Bowling
7. Snowboardign
8. Frisbee
9. Jump Rope
10. Jogging, Running
11. Stretching
12. Swimming
13. Biking
14. Ice skate, Roller skate
15. Walking
16. Active household chores
17. 'Playing' actively in park, on jungle gym, in water sprinkler, etc.
18. Hopscotch, Pogostick
19. Tug-o-War
Tips for running, walking, riding
1. Wear running shoes with proper cushioning and support.ce
2. Wear comfortable clothes.
3. Drink plenty of water. Wait to do activities after a heavy meal.
4. Choose a safe route that is well lit and not deserted.
5. Run in adequate weather conditions.
6. Let others know where you plan on doing any of these activities.
7. Know your limit and don't over do it!
8. Be organized and plan a schedule.
9. Warm up before stretching.
10. Let your muscles recuperate. Cool down!
Did You Know?
The Surgeon General's report on physical activity and health emphasizes that regular participation in moderate physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Children are more physically active than adults, but physical activity declines in adolescence. Many young people today do not engage in recommended levels of physical activity. If you show your child support and encouragement, he/she is more likely to maintain a healthy and physical active lifestyle. Physical activity is positively associated with the support of friends, family, and peers. Advocate a positive perception of physical activity for your child. Let your child know about the benefits of physical activity, including learning lifelong skills, increasing strength, endurance, and flexibility, staying in shape, looking good, and just simply having fun!
Related articles
| Anaerobic Activity | Extreme Fitness | Fitness Ball | Fitness Walking |
| Fun Fitness Activities | Muscle Fitness | Physical Fitness |