Pick activities they enjoy and set an example.
Parents play an important part in improving their kids’ health by increasing activity and decreasing passive pursuits, like TV. It’s best if you start when your kids are young. Limit TV and video games. Get kids outside and doing anything that gets them moving, whether that be running around the backyard, playing at the playground or digging in the sandbox. Inside, play music and encourage your child to dance and sing along.
Older kids may need a bit more prompting, but you can get them more active. Suggest activities that match their personalities. Running, basketball and other fast-paced games may work for some kids, while others may be content with swimming, a nice walk in the woods or the latest craze, yoga.
Be sure to practice what you preach. Let your child see you exercising. Better yet, be active with your child. Go for a bike ride together or head to the park and toss a ball around. Plan family events around physical activities like hiking, swimming or skating. Experts recommend 60 minutes a day for kids. Get out there with them and you’ll both realize the gains that exercise brings: increased energy, better overall fitness and less stress.