What to Teach Your Kids When it Comes to Exercise

With millions of obese people in the United States and this number growing each year, it is more important than ever to teach children how to exercise properly and make working out a consistent part of their daily lives.

Teach Through Actions

If it is important to you, it will be important to your kids. Children mimic their parents, so teaching through action is the best way to show your kids how to live. Regular exercise is not only healthy for you but for your child as they begin to learn how and why they should exercise. Involve your kids when you are working out and as you train them, explain why exercise is so important. This is one of the greatest gifts you can give your kids.

Start Out Slow

If you are heavy into weight lifting and working out, keep in mind that children are still growing and developing. There are certain exercises that kids should avoid at varying ages. The younger you start training your kids to workout, the more likely they are to always exercise. Begin slowly, even though you may want to jump right into YOUR routine, your children's muscles are not developed as yours are. Try walking/jogging short distances, some easy yoga and biking to begin with.

Do Everything in Moderation

Teach your kids that everything should be done in moderation, even exercise. Never use phrases like "I'm so fat" or "I wish I were thin!", kids remember everything and when they hear you say these things, it stays with them. Use positive comments such as "I'm doing much better this week than the last" or "I feel great when I exercise".

Don't Give Up

If you don't meet your goals one week, there is always the next! Show your children that just because you don't attain your goals this time, doesn't mean it won't happen. The only way it won't happen is if you give up. Teach your kids to stick with exercising and this will apply to other things in their lives.

Your actions will dictate what your children do in life. Make each lesson count when it comes to exercise and it will carry over into other areas.

Robyn Sorenson is a fitness buff, mother of 2 and writer. Her website bodybuildingdream.com is a place where people can go to find information about exercise and fitness.

By Robyn Sorenson