*This is a collaborative post.
When adults think about fitness, they usually imagine running on a treadmill and lifting heavy weights. However, health and fitness for a child can look a little bit different. Exercise for a child means being physically active. This could be running around at playtime, taking part in an extracurricular that keeps them moving or taking a bike ride at sunset. Regular exercise is vital for a child’s health as it maintains healthy bones, muscles and joints, and lowers the risk of unwanted illnesses in the future. On top of that, it is a great way to boost self-esteem and reduce levels of anxiety. Here is some advice from this private school in Berkshire on exploring health and fitness with your child.
Be a role model
One of the easiest ways to ensure your child is on the route to becoming healthier and physically active, is by practicing it yourself. If your child grows up in an environment where health and fitness are prioritised, the chances that they will follow in your footsteps are high. Some of the ways that you can do this is by being active yourself and cooking healthier meals for the family. Be sure to be vocal about how fitness makes you feel and the reasons you continue to practice it.
Talk to your child about it
Sometimes, children find certain activities boring because they don’t understand them. If fitness and health translate to your child as running in one spot for an hour or salads at every meal, there is no chance that they will want to get involved. Teach your child the different ways that they can stay active that are not only engaging, but are great for their fitness. Eating healthy and practicing mindfulness are all done in moderation too. Explain the reasons behind why things are done to give your child a better understanding of why health and fitness are important for them.
Incorporate Fitness into Family Activities
There are plenty of great activities you can do as a family that will also provide exercise. Go for a walk, ride bikes, go swimming, play tag or kick a ball around in the backyard or even build an obstacle course with hula hoops or cones. The options really are endless and you’ll have fun while staying active together.
Exercising together as a family can also help encourage good habits and values.
