Parenting Slideshow: Fitness and Exercise

Reviewed by David Perlstein, MD, MBA, FAAP on Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Family Fitness

Children need at least an hour of moderate to strenuous physical activity every day to stay healthy, according to experts. But many kids just aren't getting that much exercise. And most groups are unanimous on the prime culprit: sedentary entertainment, meaning the temptations of the TV, computer, and video games.

So, your first step toward encouraging a healthy level of physical exercise should be to limit your children's TV and screen time. Beyond that, here are some tips from the experts on how to help your children (and yourself) stay active.

Make an Exercise Schedule

Exercise doesn't have to involve a rigid routine. But it's a good idea to schedule a regular time for exercise each day. You and your kids will be more likely to get up and get moving if you've set aside a specific time for physical activity. It's important for you to model healthy behavior because your child is an excellent mimic.

Support Physical Education Programs in the Schools

Programs may be reduced or receive less emphasis in some school systems. Communicate to your child's teachers and administrators your belief that physical education (PE) is an important part of the curriculum.

Plan Your Vacations, Weekends, and Days Off Around Fitness Fun

Plan a bike ride, take an invigorating hike along nature trails, or pack a picnic lunch and head for the park for a family game of Frisbee.

Make Use of Community Resources

When it comes to finding fitness opportunities, take advantage of what your community has to offer. Join the local YMCA or sign up for tennis or other lessons through your Parks and Recreation Department. Look for water aerobics classes at local swimming pools and golf lessons at golf courses.

Get the Whole Neighborhood Involved

Organize neighborhood fitness activities for children and their parents. Softball games, soccer matches, and jump-rope contests are fun for kids and adults.

Dance!

Children of all ages love to dance. Crank up the music, show your kids the dances that were popular when you were a teen, and let them teach you their favorite dance moves.

Expose Your Child to a Variety of Physical Activities and Sports

Your child will likely find the combination of activities or sports that are most enjoyable for him or her and will not become bored of one activity.

Let Your Kids Take Turns Being the Fitness Director for Your Family

They'll have more fun when they're allowed to choose the activity, and they'll enjoy putting their parents and siblings through their paces.