Children’s Fitness & Exercise
How Much Exercise Should My Child Have?
Small children and toddlers should be physically active for some part of each day. In times where the nations obesity and general health are continually in the news, getting your child into good habits where diet and exercise are concerned will stand them in good stead for the future.
At least 60 minutes of “moderate” physical activity daily for most children is a good objective. The following activites are all good ways for your child to be active and enhance their general fitness:-
- Brisk Walking
- Cycling,
- Jumping and skipping
- Dancing
Why Is Important To Promote An Active Life So Young?
Overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults. They become prone to:-
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- other illnesses
Overweight children can also experience higher levels of stress, sadness, low self-esteem and bullying
Will I Be Able To Tell If My Child Is Overweight?
Children grow at different rates at different times. Children often have a growth spurt in weight and the height comes later. Your family GP will be ale to weigh and measure your child and explain whether or not you child is in a healthy range for his and her gender and age.
What Can I Do To Keep My Child Fit & Healthy?
• Ensure that your child eats breakfast
• Offer a wide variety of foods, such as grains, vegetables and fruits, low-fat dairy products, and lean meat or beans. Try to avoid foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
• Talk with your GP about your child’s eating and exercising habits if you are concerned
• Cook with less fat—bake, roast, or poach foods instead of frying.
• Be a role model for your children. If they see you being active and having fun they are likely to follow your lead
• Encourage your child to be active everyday.
• Involve the whole family in activities like hiking, biking, dancing, gardening and walking to the park
Add to del.icio.us
Digg this