Childhood obesity is an increasingly difficult problem. Action, if taken early, can change the outcome for obese children or even prevent it happening in the first place. An appropriate exercise problem is one tool that can alter the outcome for such children

When we talk about exercise routines for children we must not get them confused with the strict routines that adults follow. Children’s exercise routines should be fun, flexible and enjoyable, not the three or four gym visits per week type routines. As children are still growing, certain types of exercise may be harmful to them at a younger age. You can however incorporate aerobic exercises, strength building exercises and activities to improve flexibility into your child’s routines to build overall fitness.

The following is fact …

obesity could shave an average of nine years from our lifespan

Want exercise on wheels? Try rollerblading or cycling. Rollerblading, as well as being fun, can be an indoor or outdoor sport so is great for the winter months as well. Both of these exercises are good for developing your child’s coordination and balance. Cycling is an easy way to increase you child’s activity and overall fitness as it works many muscle groups. Once you get your child on a bike they will never look back, whether cycling to school or to their friend’s house, they will be exercising without even knowing it.

Did you know …?

being obese increases our risk of many health problems including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, stroke, back and joint pain, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, gallstones, fatty liver, infertility, breathlessness, depression, snoring, difficulty sleeping and excessive sweating

Exercise helps to regulate body fat so your child will be less likely to become overweight. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels may also be lowered and they are at a lesser risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Your child will also develop a leaner physique with stronger muscles and bones. Being physically fit and active also helps to improve your child’s sleeping habits and their mental agility in day to day tasks.

You can choose from many forms of exercise to benefit your child’s health and growing up needs. Discussing your ideas with your child and the rest of the family will help to build a picture of the types of exercises your child will have fun taking part in. This is the first and most important step to helping them choose an exercise regime that they will feel comfortable with.

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