Fun Fitness for Kids

The best exercise for kids is to get moving. Develop some fun fitness ideas for kids. We're not talking about body building or abandoning them to the treadmill for a half hour each day. If it's not fun, they won't do it. In a previous article, The Epidemic of Childhood Obesity, I talked about how childhood obesity can be prevented. And honestly, it most cases it can be prevented. But, we can't put our kids in front of the computer, television, and PlayStation for entertainment and then scratch out heads wondering how they became overweight.

On top of that it's more common that physical education is being pulled out of the schools. Between no exercise at school or home, where are our kids going to get exercise? I've covered the problem. Now, lets talk about solutions.

Small children are probably the easiest (ages 3-7):

Take them to the park for an hour rather than planting them in front of the TV. This is a great time for you to have some time with your kids and let loose yourself. Trust me, they grow up before you know it.
Play Duck Duck Goose, Mother May I, Simon Says..remember those games?
Get your kids involved with soccer, little league or any other team sport. It's great for them to learn to be a part of a team.
If you have a YMCA they usually offer fun programs for kids.
Come up with some basic exercises to do with them. Exercise as a family.

Older children (ages 8-11)

The YMCA (no, I don't work for the Y) is still a great place to kids at this age.
At these ages you have more options for team sports
Summer Camp or Boot Camps.
Specialized Fit Kids programs. Many personal trainers are now offering programs (as I will Summer 06) especially for kids.
Shoot some hoops together
Swimming lessons
Hiking

Tweeners and above (age 12-up)

Keep your kids involved in some type of sport. It's when they get bored they start getting into trouble. Two enthusiastic thumbs up for the team!
Cheerleading
Skate boarding
Surfing

Start your kids out young with exercise. If it has become a part of their normal every day life, chances are that they will keep the good habits that they have developed. Get your kids moving and eating right. Another one of the best exercises for kids is to learn self-discipline and self-control. Your kids are going to feel better, look better and have a healthier self-esteem. Have fun with your kids and have fun with fitness!