Tips on Exercise for Overweight Kids

by admin

It’s no surprise that an inactive lifestyle and obesity go hand in hand. The sedentary lifestyles that are so rampant in America are much to blame for obesity at large in our society. Exercise for overweight kids goes a long way in promoting weight loss and overall good health. The problem is that many overweight children feel embarrassed or awkward taking part in organized physical activities at school. Adding to the problem is the fact that fewer high schools are requiring students to take part in physical education programs.

Exercise for overweight kids is also made more difficult due to all the creature comforts that exist today. In this digital age, many children would rather stay at home and watch TV, play video games, or surf the net than go outside and play with their peers. Exercise for overweight kids is also harder since they often have difficulty breathing. In some serious cases, it can even lead to asthma.

Some Steps We Can Take to Treat and Prevent Obesity

The first people who need to act when it comes to encouraging exercise for overweight kids are parents. For starters, provide help for overweight kids by getting them away from the TV. According to statistics, cutting down a child’s TV time to 7 hours per week could cut his or her risk of obesity by a third. Permanent lifestyle changes are in order, such as cutting back TV time, making adjustments to diet, and becoming active as a family. Always provide your children with an active alternative to inactivity, such as going to a walking trail versus sitting down and playing video games.

Parents must be involved in their child’s weight loss process and have a positive attitude in order for there to be success. Studies show that children who have at least one parent involved are more likely to lose weight and keep it off. Exercise for overweight kids should not be just for the kids alone; the entire family should participate.

Obese parents tend to have obese kids so that is another big reason why the whole family should be involved in the weight loss process. If the whole family learns to exercise and eat right together, the children will learn to live with these important changes and get rid of bad habits.

Parents can encourage exercise for overweight kids by requiring physical activities throughout the day such as walking the dog or doing yard work and other active chores. When buying gifts for their children, parents should buy toys that promote physical activity such as balls and other sports equipment. Kids who are seeking part-time jobs should be encouraged to find active jobs such as bicycle messenger, lawn mowing, or paper carrier.

Furthermore, on the weekends parents should plan physical activities for the entire family such as hiking, biking, or flying a kite. Encouraging children to join school sports and other activities also promotes exercise for overweight kids.

In conclusion, there are many ways for parents to help their overweight kids get more exercise and live healthier lives. The key is setting goals towards leading a healthier, more active lifestyle as a family and not just leaving it up to your kids. Exercise for overweight kids doesn’t have to be strict and boring. For the best results, make it a fun, family affair.