Be Physically Active Daily
Physical Activity is Important for Good Health
Physical activity, along with healthy eating habits, is a sure path to maintain good health.
For kids, doctors recommend 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day.
Being active increases endurance, flexibility, and strength.
Active children usually have improved coordination, feel better about themselves, and can do better in school.
Physical activity burns calories and exercises the muscles.
Active children are less likely to be depressed or anxious, and have reduced risk of developing diabetes, asthma, and heart disease as they get older.
Physical Activity: What Your Family Can Do
Get up and keep moving while watching TV or playing video games.
Make it a goal: move during commercials.
Stay active throughout the day: park farther away, take the stairs, get off the bus one stop early, walk to your destination if possible, etc.
Make moving fun: dance to music, try a new fitness video, play musical chairs, Simon says with exercises, four square, or tag, or make active rules for card and board games.
Quick Tips:
Play in two 30 minute blocks or four 15 minute blocks to add up to 60 minutes every day
Enroll in an activity at your local recreation center
Plan activities for the whole family to do together:
Ride bikes
Go hiking
Grab sporting equipment and play at a nearby park
Go for a swim
Walk the dog
Do chores together:
Vacuuming
Yard work
Laundry
Cleaning the house
Get family and friends together for a game of kickball, dodgeball, basketball, baseball, football, etc.
For more information
Information provided in this sheet was adapted from www.kidshealth.org, www.dole5aday.com, www.cdc.gov, and NCH handouts.