Adding daily physical activity
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EmailIncrease family time through physical activity.
Life is full of things to do. Sometimes it becomes very busy and we forget to add physical activity to our daily routine. Even though physical activity can be done individually, it is not as fun or as likely to continue without either someone to share it with or some challenges along the way. As a family, physical activity can add time together and benefit our health, physically and emotionally.
We have all heard that childhood obesity is on the rise in the last few years, more reason that an increase in physical activity should be added to each day. Michigan State University Extension recommends following the Center of Disease Controls (CDC) guidelines for the amount of physical activity needed each day for people of all ages. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional before beginning any physical routine.
To encourage physical activity in your child, the CDC recommends becoming a role model by leading an active life. Do activities that are age appropriate for youth and adult. As a family, decide what activities everyone likes and are willing to participate in. Then make that activity a part of your everyday routine.
One way to start is to have dinner together and talk about everyone’s day. Then plan to go for a walk after dinner or go to the park where children can be active. When providing gifts for youth, give them active items, such as a jump rope or basketball – something that will encourage them to get up and moving.
However you chose to increase physical activity, try to plan time for 60 minutes of activity each day for youth. By doing activities as a family everyone can share their time, interests and best of all – their life together.
