Getting Kids Active

Getting kids active is on everyone's mind these days. From us as parents, to school boards, to our governments. As a fitness professional I know that if kids are exposed to lots of different activities when they are young, and encouraged to be active, they will of course more likely to be active adults.

What does this mean to us as parents? Well it means that our children will learn to work with others in teams, it will build confidence, give them challenges that they may not have thought of themselves doing (the whole try something new thing), keeps their bodies healthy and strong and works their minds.

So many advantages to being active. Of course the biggest fear for even the governments right now is how quickly obesity rates are climbing in children. This brings on many more health problems, the fastest rising being childhood diabetes.

The trick with keeping your kids active is to make it fun. Even as adults we love to do things we enjoy. So to make activity part of your lifestyle, be sure your kids love to do it.

Being active can be a simple as going to the park, but instead of sitting on the bench watching them play, get in there and play with them. You can bring a soccer or foot ball with you and toss that around, or you can look for events going on in and around your community and get involved. This is one of my favourite things to do.

Just on Sat. the kids were in their very first triathalon. We have always done running events so this was a new experience for everyone. It turned out to be great. It was specifically organized for kids ages 3-15.

For those of you who aren't familiar with triathalon's its where you start out with a swim, then a bike ride, then finishing with a run. My 7 year old went first. As a mom, I was so nervous for her. Swimming wasn't her strength, but she did awesome. She was the second one out of the pool and I was there encouraging her as she transitioned from her swim to her bike. My 10 year old did just as great (she had a much longer swim, bike and run) and the best part is, they loved it and asked us when the next one was.

Awesome. We had never done anything like this but events like these are often well organized, the energy so high, and they are great with the kids. Everyone gets a medal, t-shirt (which they both wore to school today) and snacks when they finish the race. What's not to love?

Are we hooked? For sure. We will definitely do a few next year. We won't give up on our running races but it's great to have variety and let kids find out what they really like.

Google your city name and different events like kids triathalon's, running races, mountain bike races etc. and get involved. Not only will your kids keep active, they will be building a strong foundation for their children and tons of great memories.

Committed to your fitness success,

Kelly Parker
www.fitmommakeover.net