How To Encourage Physical Fitness In Your Kids

It's no secret that kids these days aren't as active as they used to be. With the digital age in full swing, more and more kids are staying inside using technology than ever before. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, only one in three children is physically active every day. Physical inactivity early in life can lead to health problems later on. Here are just a few tips to make sure your kids stay active, helping them improve their fitness throughout their life.

• Limit screen time: Kids spend more time nowadays with technology than ever. If it's possible, try to limit your kids' screen time to an hour or two per day. It might sound like a lot, but there's a strong chance your children are already using technology much more than that to begin with.
• Encourage sports: Whether your kids get involved in organized sports or not, a trip to one of your local sports stores might be the key to keeping your kids healthy. Encouraging your children to try sports and find one they enjoy can help them stay active on a regular basis and promote health.
• Include kids in your exercise: Rather than using your exercise time as a way to get away from the kids for a bit, let your children participate in your home fitness routines. Workouts can become a great family bonding time while modeling good fitness behaviors for your kids to follow. Kids are often best led by example; if your children see you demonstrating behaviors that encourage a healthy lifestyle, they're more likely to follow and stay healthy later in life too.

• Take advantage of opportunities: If you and your kids have the option of walking to their friend's house for a playdate, opt for walking instead of driving. Ask for help bringing groceries inside to get them moving; no opportunity to encourage physical health and activity is too small.

If you're looking to keep your kids physically active and healthy, these tips can ensure that they get started on the path to life-long fitness. Make sure your kids stay physically active while they're young, and you can help them stay healthy later on in life too.