Get your kids up and moving

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 01/03/2023 (1113 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

If you’re worried that your kids aren’t getting enough exercise, you might be right. According to an extensive 2019 global study published in The Lancet, researchers found that over 80 per cent of kids between the ages of 11 and 17 were not active enough. That’s a huge number, and it’s concerning because physical activity is a determining factor in health outcomes related to obesity, diabetes and other conditions.

If you know your kids need to move more but you’re not sure where to start, keep this in mind above all else: movement must be fun. Physical activity can look different for children at various ages, but the key is making sure they always enjoy it. For some kids a dance class is a great choice, but others will love structured sports. Some might even enjoy fitness routines performed in a gym.

It would be a mistake to throw your kid into any regimented, difficult program they dread. It won’t be fun for them and can create a difficult relationship with exercise for the rest of their lives. Remember, we are looking for fun first and foremost. In fact, you might not even need to use the word “exercise.” Younger kids can easily be enticed into playing games that get them moving and having fun while they do it. This builds a love of movement and positive associations with physical activity.

To cast a wide net in hopes of success, don’t limit movement to a traditional gym setting with kids. If you’re spending the day in the garden, try giving young ones a few tasks that will keep them engaged alongside you. Heading out for a walk or hike? Create a little treasure hunt in advance or try something like “I Spy.”

If you are getting in a quick workout at home gym and your kids express interest, create an accessible body-weight version of the workout for them. If they want to go even further, many gyms in the city have amazing kids programs that prioritize fun, as well as proper technique and age-appropriate training.

Community teams, school teams and other local programs are great ways to find out where interests lie. It might be hard, but try not to impose your own preferences on the kids. If they don’t like a particular sport or exercise, that doesn’t mean they hate movement altogether. Besides, the more varied their exercise patterns are, the better it is for long-term athletic development. There’s nothing wrong with a kid who wants to try hockey one year, soccer the next, then karate and dance later on. Movement is movement!

It’s best to build a healthy, positive relationship with movement at a young age, and you’re the best role model for your kids. Activities don’t have to take up a ton of time or be structured. Get moving with your kids, keep it simple and make it fun. And here’s one tip borrowed from wise teachers – stop while they’re still having fun, not when they’re bored by an activity.