Fitness And Your Child

Posted by Golden on August 14th, 2010

I am going to talk about fitness for children. When we talk about exercise it is not only for adults, children are also involved.

By the time kids are 4 and 5 years old; they have mastered their basic movement skills such as jumping, walking, and running and have lots of energy to put those skills to good use. During these years they will continue to refine their skills and build on the basics to learn more complex tasks.

Take advantage of your child?s natural tendency to be active. By encouraging your child to participate in physical activities, you are setting the stage so your child can lead a fit and healthy lifestyle now and down the road.

Sports and physical education experts recommend preschoolers should:

?get at least 60 minutes of structured physical activity (adult led activity).

?get at least 60 minutes of unstructured physical activity (free play)

?not be inactive for more than one hour at a time (unless sleeping).

It is important to understand what your child can do and what skills are appropriate at this age. Engage your child in activities that are fun and challenging but not beyond your child?s abilities.

Your child may also enjoy swimming, hiking, dancing, and riding a tricycle or bicycle with training wheels. All of these activities help develop skills and coordination. It is important that your child engage in a variety of activities to encourage a wide range of movement and skills.

Many parents look to organized sports as a way to get preschoolers active. But the average 4-5 year old has not mastered the basics such as throwing, catching and taking turns. Even simple rules may be hard for a 4-5 year old to understand. Starting too young can be frustrating to a child and discourage future participation in sports. But if you decide to sign your 5-year old for football or other team sport, be sure to choose a miniature league that emphasizes the fundamentals.

No matter what sport or activity remember that fitness should be fun. If your child is not having fun, ask why and address the situation. Or find another activity your child does enjoy.