Shape of a Heart
How would your child fare on a fitness test?
According to a recent study, one in three teens is too out of shape to complete a simple treadmill fitness test. Help your kids avoid being fitness failures and developing heart disease later in life by identifying activities they enjoy and will do regularly. Any exercise that gets them moving will do the trick if done on most days.
Lack of physical activity early in life can lead to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease later on, due to higher cholesterol, blood pressure, and rates of obesity. Foster a healthy lifestyle for the whole family by playing ball in the backyard, going for bike rides or hikes, and walking rather than taking the car whenever possible. Make sure your kids get several sessions of sustained exercise each week.
Establish active habits early with younger children by encouraging physical play, active games, and frequent playground fun. Lead by example. Take a parent-child gym class or have them join you on a jog or run. As kids get older, let them choose their favorite sport, and experiment with activities they might like. Finding sports that are the right match for your children could make them lifelong fitness fans and healthier adults. If baseball, basketball, and soccer aren't up your teen's alley, suggest a dance class, martial arts, or yoga.
