Is your child getting enough exercise? If she is not getting enough exercise, you must take steps to change that right away. Exercise is crucial to your child’s health. Let’s look at 4 benefits that your child will get from regular exercise:

1. Exercise reduces the risk of obesity. If your child takes part in a regular exercise program, her chances of becoming obese are dramatically reduced. An active child equals a healthier child.

2. Exercise lessens the risk of diseases. Diabetes and high blood pressure are combated by exercise. If you have a family history of such diseases, you should encourage your child to exercise.

3. Exercise strengthens your child’s body. As your child exercises on a frequent basis, his muscles and bones will become stronger.

4. Exercise induces feelings of well-being. Have you noticed your child struggling with peer pressure or becoming uncomfortable with her body? Promote an exercise routine. Exercising helps ease tension and can help encourage your child’s self-confidence.

Need some exercise ideas to encourage your child? Why not incorporate an exercise routine into your schedule with your children? Try these simple ideas:

WALKING – Walking is the easiest, and one of the best forms of exercise for anyone. Walking is a easy way to encourage a conversation as well.

SPORTS – If your child is interested in sports, you have an easy job. Just offer to take them out every weekend and play. Whether basketball or tennis, or any of a dozen other one-on-one type sports. Even just catch.

SWIMMING – Almost all kids love to swim. If you don’t have one of your own, invest in a monthly membership to a local gym.

BIKE RIDING – Close behind walking, riding bikes is another great way to get fun exercise.

HIKING – Does your crew love the outdoors? Get everyone a pair of hiking shoes and a backpack and get moving. Plan special expeditions once a month, in addition to your regular exercise. Children love hiking because they get to explore and observe nature close up.

GEOCACHING - This is {related to|based on} hiking, but has a “mission” or purpose. There are other resources that can explain what geocaching is, and your kids will probably love this activity.