How to Get Your Kids Exercising

Keeping children active is crucial for their overall health and well-being. While adults often use treadmills for their workouts, it’s important to note that treadmills are not suitable for children. Instead, let’s explore fun and safe ways to motivate kids to exercise and enjoy physical activity.

Set achievable goals

Encourage your child to set fitness goals, whether it’s taking a daily walk, increasing the number of jumping jacks or squats they can do, holding a plank longer, or even training for a 5k. The internet is full of workout challenges suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Consider creating a chart at home where your child can track their progress and mark off their daily goals. Discuss the benefits of physical activity with your child and ask for their input on a goal they’d like to achieve. Small, gradual goals can inspire children to be active and develop long-term healthy habits.

Get creative with exercise

Variety is key to keeping kids interested in exercise. Find out what activities your child enjoys to make physical activity fun. Walking, biking, dancing, interval running, yoga, playing outside, and bodyweight exercises are all great options.

For an element of surprise, write different activities on pieces of paper and draw them from a bucket, or rotate which family member chooses the activity for the day.

Utilize online resources

While screen time might seem counterproductive to physical activity, it can actually be a valuable tool. There are countless online and streaming workout resources that parents can use to get their kids moving. Many of these resources are family-friendly and age-appropriate, allowing you to turn technology into an ally for physical fitness.

Make exercise a family affair

Set an example by making physical activity a family priority. Go for walks or bike rides together, play sports outside, or join your child in a video-led yoga or gym session. Setting your own fitness goals alongside your child’s demonstrates healthy choices and reinforces the importance of staying active.

Being active as a family is not only good for your health but also provides quality bonding time. Children are more likely to be active if they see their family members leading by example. The most influential factor in a child’s activity level is the behaviour of their family.

Lead by example

If you want to inspire your child to exercise, the best thing you can do is lead by example. Rather than expecting your children to be active on their own, make a commitment to be active with them as much as possible.

By engaging in physical activities together, you’re not only fostering healthy habits but also creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds.

Encouraging children to stay active doesn’t have to be a chore. By setting goals, being creative, using online resources, and making exercise a family activity, you can help your child develop a love for physical activity that will benefit them for a lifetime. Lead by example, and your child will follow your footsteps toward a healthy, active lifestyle.