How to Help Kids Who Hate Sports Keep Fit

Participating in physical activities is crucial for keeping your kids fit and healthy. Physical fitness builds muscle, helps control weight, decreases the risk of obesity and promotes healthy development, according to Let'sMove.org, a comprehensive initiative launched by First Lady Michelle Obama dedicated to solving the problem of obesity. Not all kids enjoy playing sports, but that doesn't mean they can't still be fit. Your children need to get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous play time each day and you can help them work to meet this goal.

Instructions

    • 1

      Limit the use of electronics in your home to two hours or less screen time each day, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' website, HealthyChildren.org. This includes time spent watching television, playing on the computer, participating in social media, using handheld electronics and playing video games.

    • 2

      Avoid over-scheduling your child, as it may leave too little time for physical fitness or play time just running around with friends in the yard.

    • 3

      Help your child find a physical activity that she enjoys. Sign her up for a class or lesson, such as dance, horseback riding, yoga, cheerleading or inline skating, recommends KidsHealth.

    • 4

      Make active types of toys easily available for your child, such as jump ropes, bicycles, balls, large plastic hoops and flying discs.

    • 5

      Help your child develop a lifelong habit of including exercise into her everyday life, recommends the AAP. Take her to the playground to play, race her across the yard, take her ice skating or head to the mall to do some brisk walking.

    • 6

      Set and achieve goals together as a family. Set aside time each day for family activities, such as a hike, bike ride, swimming, bowling or roller skating.

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