Diet is very important when it comes to your children’s health, but did you know that exercise is equally as important?

A family biking together,

Kids spend an enormous amount of time on tablets, devices, etc. as well as sitting and watching television. The childhood obesity epidemic is as prominent as ever all over the world, and it’s not by sheer accident. Remember the days when playing outside was an everyday occurrence, weather permitting? Well, those days need to come back because our children need this daily activity.

It’s important to instill a genuine love for physical activity when your children are young so that they can carry on the habit when they are an adult. This lessens the chance of physical ailments and obesity later in life.

There are no hard and fast rules about how much exercise your child needs, although the CDC recommends that children and teenagers should do one hour or more of physical activity every day. When combining different activities throughout the day, one hour is certainly doable.

Children under 12 years of age need to focus on activities that enhance their fundamental motor skills as well as lateral movement. Activities that involve free running such as playing catch with a ball are ideal at this age. Other activities include hopscotch, marbles and hide-and-go-seek. Physical activity at a young age can help them to develop strong bones and healthy muscles, as well as a healthy mind.

For children who are 12 years old and older, group games and strength training as well as obstacle training can be mixed into their exercise regime. It’s also a good age for children to really learn about sportsmanship. Daily exercise will also improve their balance and stamina. Many gyms allow children 12 and older to participate in various classes such as Zumba, swimming or spinning. Strength training can be incorporated into exercise for children who are over 12 (with strict adult supervision).

Be an example! Exercise with your children so that your entire family can reap the benefits of physical activity. If you make your own health a priority, your children will lead by your example. So get out there and get moving with your children, and most importantly, have fun!