Weight loss is one of the top motivating factors for adults to get active. But kids are a bit different. While achieving a healthy weight is an excellent reason for kids to get enough physical activity, their motivation is usually more about having fun.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Getting this amount will help them maintain a healthy weight, have a better overall mood, improve concentration and focus, and get deeper sleep.
Participating in youth sports, taking a bike ride, going cross country skiing – or even just going to an open gym session to shoot hoops with friends are great ways for kids to get active. However, it can be difficult to fit these activities in due to scheduling, lack of transportation or even the cold, often icy, Chicago weather.
These challenges don’t have to get in the way of getting enough physical activity. With a bit of creativity, you can get active at home. Here are a few ideas to get started. View slideshow.
Make TV Time Active Time
Try creating different challenges for kids to complete during commercial breaks. For example, everyone watching TV needs to do 10 push-ups during each break.
Use Screen Time to Get Moving
Use your kids’ interest in playing video games to help them get moving. For example, have them play interactive games that encourage movement, such as Wii Fit.
Get Help with Household Chores
Helping around the house is a good way to work up a sweat. Raking leaves, shoveling snow and cleaning the garage are all good activities for kids.
Create an In-Home Circuit Workout
Can’t get to the gym? No problem. You can create an in-home circuit workout for you and your kids to do together. All it takes is setting up a few stations around your home. Have kids spend 60 seconds at each station before rotating to the next one. Station ideas include jumping jacks, running in place, jump rope and push-ups.
Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness Centers encourage kids to get active and can help you find new ideas to help them stay motivated. We offer programs and classes for kids, including soccer, TRX, circuit training and organized gym play. To learn more about our programming for kids, visit us online or call 630-646-7900.