Tips to Keep Your Children Healthy and Active

Swimming

You might not realize it, but swimming is a total body workout. Luckily here in Florida, we can swim just about year round.

Bike riding

Bike riding is not only great exercise, but you can connect as a family while riding bikes together. You can also see some great landmarks, parks, or just explore. They’ll be having so much fun on these family outings, they won’t even realize they’re getting exercise.

Dancing

Dancing is a great way to stay in shape and is fun too! Have a Friday night dance off! If your child gets involved in a dance class, they could learn to love the art of dance and have fun with this different type of fitness.

Walking/Running

Walking/Running is simple and free. It doesn’t have to be a long distance. Running can be as simple as a challenging friends to see who is fastest. Beaches, parks and preserves are great places for a walk or run. Exploring nature is a great distraction for the idea of exercise. There are also fun runs in the area for children and the whole family. They can get exercise while supporting a worth-while cause.

Jumping

What child doesn’t love to jump? Jumping is great exercise and is great for building muscles in the legs. Bring back hop scotch, potato sack racing, and jump rope. They’ll be having so much fun jumping around that they won’t even realize they’re getting exercise!

Climbing Stairs

Stair climbing is great exercise. With many Florida homes being single level, we don’t often get the chance to climb stairs. Observation towers in parks and preserves are great for stair climbing. Make sure they’re being careful and taking one step at a time. Once they get to the top, they’ll love the view!

Playing Tag

When their friends are visiting, turn off the electronics and send them outside for a good old fashion game of tag. Tag involves running and agility as they maneuver to avoid being tagged. It’s so much fun they won’t realize they are exercising.