There is no specific exercise that tops of all others when it comes to its rewards. Moderate to vigorous physical activity daily has been proven to help the mental and physical development of children. Thus, you should choose an exercise that your child loves actively engaging in for at least thirty to ninety minutes daily.
Picking Your Favorite Sport
Physical activity of any kind of reaps great benefits. Thus instead of forcing your child to half-heartedly play a sport he/she is disinterested in, experiment with different games still your child finding something interesting. According to Canadian community health experts, a child who has a sedentary lifestyle must start by thirty minutes of exercise. Then slowly increase it to ninety minutes per day for at least five months – to notice significant changes in mood, physique, and cognition. Hence, it is crucial that the child takes physical activity as playtime instead of an arduous task.
Martial Arts
Martial arts – both traditional and modern – are known to build character and better morale in children. The training only comprises of moderate to vigorous physical exercise, but it also helps build self-esteem. Children taking up martial arts at a young age grow up learning traditional values of respecting their opponent, taking up challenges with mental clarity, and a growth mindset. Moreover, pushing themselves to get better and not expecting fast results from life. That is if there is one exercise that will help children improve their mental and physical health as well as personality, it is certainly martial arts. That too irrespective of the kind – whether its karate, jujutsu, or taekwondo lessons.
Strength Training and Flexibility
During the developmental phase, children taking up physical education on flexibility will learn more. Since their musculoskeletal system is just forming and the bones haven’t ossified completely, their bodies will adapt to changes faster. That is why children from all ages groups should be encouraged to take up gymnastic or yoga training.
Strength training, that is lifting weights or using resistance bands can be started from preteen years. This will not only help with the mobilization of fat from big muscle groups, but it will also increase muscle mass, tone, and stamina. Inculcating these habits at a young age will help sustain them through adulthood. Younger kids can do squats, burpees, cartwheels to increase upper and lower body strength.
Endurance and Agility Training
A child would not be interested in doing plain old cardio as endurance training. Make this a fun activity by taking up sports like ice skating soccer, swimming, or cycling. This not only helps your child’s heart to function effectively but also helps develop the big group of muscles in your body. It improves ventilation, circulation as well as brain perfusion. This is crucial during your child’s formative years.
Running and Jumping Rope
If you are low on resources than simply going on a run around the nearby park or block will help your child increase stamina. Moreover, jumping rope will help increase lean mass, burn fat more effectively, and help increase balance as well as motor proficiency.
Cycling
A basic life skill that every child must know! Get a cycle with training wheels and let your child out in the open air. Cycling is one of the most effective ways of burning calories instantly. Thus, if you have a child who is obese for his/her get then you should encourage them to go cycling. It also helps instill creativity and inquisitiveness.
Swimming
This is not only an essential survival skill that all children must know, but it is also excellent for building a stronger physique. Children as young as one or two years are also taught how to keep themselves afloat in water. Hence, you must teach your children how to swim – especially if you have a pool at your house.
Bottom line is that you can pick an exercise depending on your child’s interest. If he or she hasn’t decided any, then you can either enroll them in summer camps, help them find out what they enjoy, or pick up a fun family activity. This includes running together, cycling, playing badminton, or table tennis together. Finally, take necessary safety measures before starting anything new – childhood traumatic brain injuries can have a lasting impact throughout adulthood.