|  | Family Health | Childrens Health

Gym Ideas for Kids

Fitness isn't just something adults do to stay in shape. Fitness is a habit that is gained through tenacity and willpower. And with childhood obesity on the rise, some parents might see a child workout as a way to stave off the unhealthy advances of food, sedentary lifestyles and a general lack of nutritional know how. Childhood fitness can set a great example for the kid to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.

  1. Jungle Gym

    • The classic jungle gym is a maze of bars and swings set to unleash childhood imagination and promote fun by climbing, sliding and balancing. Jungle gyms have to meet certain health and safety standards, so most are incredibly safe. Allow your child to roam free on a jungle gym and climb to her heart's content. Most children's systems aren't built to handle high-endurance activities and stamina workouts. Generally, kids benefit from continuous movement, no matter the pace.

    Kid's Gym

    • If a jungle gym doesn't suit your fancy, many gyms designed specifically for children have popped up. Classes are taught by child-friendly instructors who use up-to-date information on how best to style their workouts for children. Classes are low-impact but highly impacting by keeping kids active and moving. Certain classes offer aerobics and stretching, promoting healthy muscle flexibility.

    Take a Dip

    • A pool might seem dangerous for kids, but installing an above-ground pool serves as a highly promising deviant to safety problems of a standard pool. Above-ground pools are usually around 4 feet high, meaning children can't easily get into them without your help, especially if the ladder is put away. Get your child some "floaties," and let them splash around with you. Swimming is one of the most beneficial exercises for children, as it teaches them how to swim properly, promotes cardiovascular development, and works many muscles left practically unused by the body on a day-to-day basis.

    Make Believe

    • Your backyard can be the gym here. Simply pretend your child might catch you in order to defeat an evil monster, or pretend you and he are rocket ships flying in space. There are no ridiculous scenarios. Chase, tag, pick up, play with and love your kid to promote good health. This also can create some great memories.

    Kids Only

    • If you're an active parent and can't find enough time to always make sure your kid is getting enough exercise, consider signing your child up for golf, basketball, tennis or any other sport. Hand-eye coordination, fitness and team skills are found in athletes, and the younger they start, the more experience your child can get. Lessons won't break the bank, but will offer you a chance to get your work done without sacrificing your kid's health. And who knows? They might even like it.

Childrens Health - Related Articles