Today’s kids are spending increasingly more time on the sofa and not enough time getting outside and being active. And with so many devices available to them – TV, tablets, hand-held game consoles, Netflix – it’s no surprise.
In fact, according to the Canadian Obesity Network, one-in-10 children have clinical obesity. These children are more likely to develop high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and pre-diabetes. But a healthy lifestyle including physical activity can lower the risk of becoming obese.
It is recommended that kids have at least 60-minutes of physical activity every day. That’s not very much at all! The best part? Regular physical activity improves strength and endurance, helps build healthy bones and muscles, and can even reduce anxiety and stress.
Here are 4 tips to get your kids active!
1 – Add Activity Time to Your Schedule
We know you want your kids to be active, but sometimes it feels like there’s not enough time in the day. Try doing 10 jumping jacks in the morning, plan park time after school, or do 10 frog jumps before bed. If you add activity into your routine it won’t seem so hard.
2 – Start Jumping
NASA has stated that 10 minutes of jumping is the equivalent of a 30 minute run. Get your kids jumping on a Springfree Trampoline and they’ll be active for hours. You can even sneak in 10 minutes of jumping before school to get them excited and ready for the day.
3 – Set an Example
Kids develop habits from watching their parents. Set a good example for your kids and get active yourself. Whether it’s going for a walk with the family dog or biking to the local shops, it will show your kids the importance of physical activity. And don’t forget, you can use your Springfree Trampoline too!
4 – Plan Outdoor Activities as a Family
Set one day a week to do something active with your family. It could be swimming, skating, jumping, or going on a bike ride. It’s easier to stay active when you’re doing it together.
Have any tips that help you and your family stay active? Share them in the comments below!