Every week there seems as though there is some new startling statistic on the obesity levels of today’s youth and the increasingly levels of weight-related illnesses and diseases. Yet at the same time fatty foods come in larger portion sizes, are cheaper than their healthier alternatives and activity levels are at an all-time low as video games take on unprecedented popularity levels.
In fact, the number or percentage of kids that are classified as overweight and obese kids and teens has more than doubled since the 1970’s with lack of activity and poor diet being the main contributors.
So how do you change your kids’ mindset and make fitness a priority without taking away the fun of their childhood and what they enjoy.
The key, according to fitness professionals, is to make fitness and exercise as a mere benefit or side effect of a fun activity that kids will want to do. Basically, you don’t even want your kids to feel they are exercising.
Of course how successful it is depends on the child in question but the easiest option encourage fitness is to get them interested in after school sports or competition. While some sports may not suit some children, there are literally hundreds to choose from depending on the interests of the child. For example, those who are great team players will usually respond well to team sports such as netball or soccer whereas kids who prefer solo sports can thrive in swimming and tennis sports. The key is to make them enjoy the game and interaction as opposed to focusing on the actual exercise.
Additionally, being involved in sports and after-school activities will offer a range of benefits from friends, social interaction and a healthy work ethic.
Of course, if you are having trouble motivating your child into a fitter lifestyle it may be time to lead by example. Help counteract all the negative influences that kids encounter everyday simply by eating healthily yourself and maintaining a good level of fitness. While not only helping your kids to lead a healthy lifestyle you will also feel the benefits.
Speaking of these benefits, what is the motivation for fit children?
have a leaner body and less body fat
have stronger muscles and bones
better prevention of developing type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure
studies show fit children tend to have a healthier outlook on life and perform better academically