Five Ways to Develop Fitness Habits for Children

The family is such an important aspect of wellness. In fact, the AIA Healthy Living Index determined that the number one driver of healthy living for adults is having good family relationship. Children will copy what their parents do. Let the kids see the whole family interested and having fun in fitness activities, so they will also develop the right attitude.

When the word “exercise” is said, what comes to mind? Treadmills? Rowing machines? Weights, perhaps. Change the picture into a day-long trip to an amusement park like Enchanted Kingdom. The whole family, including the littlest ones, can all participate in walking around and discovering fun things to do. Exercise does not always have to happen at the gym. Any place where movement is encouraged is a venue for exercise.

If a toy is there, chances are the kids will play with it. Make active toys, such as skipping ropes, hula hoops, and scooters, available to get their heart rates up. These toys develop coordination and can get them sweating. Even video games can be used to sneak in some exercise. Choose games that promote whole body movement such as the dance mats and the Nintendo Wii instead of games that just make use of their fingers.

Children crawl before they stand. They stand before they walk. They walk before they run. Each milestone represents a new phase for the child. When encouraging children to move and use their bodies, it is important to think about which phase they are in developmentally.

For example, a three-year old is incapable of running a three-kilometer run, but a 13-year old can. Give younger kids appropriate activities like using the playground monkey bars or several rounds of dancing the hokey pokey. Older kids can enjoy fun runs or easy mountain treks. These activities encourage movement, but appeal to different stages of development.

While development follows a set pattern, each child is different when it comes to interest. One of the best ways to get the child develop fitness habits is to follow their lead. If a child is interested in dance, consider ballet or hip-hop classes. Sports also provide a lot of options. Classes in karate, football, swimming, and even wushu and kendo groups for kids can be found around the city. There is a greater chance that the kids would stick to the activity if they enjoy doing it.

One step parents can take to protect their children is to help them develop their fitness habits early. The other part is to make sure that they are protected against unexpected events. This is why a product like Life Ready Plus is important. This is a unit-linked life insurance plan that incorporates these goals in one complete package.

Life Ready Plus offers insurance that makes sure your children can receive financial benefits in case something happens to you. Plans can also be upgraded to cover accidents and critical illnesses. As part of the BPI AIA's Wellness Series, Life Ready Plus offers the benefits of AIA Vitality. The AIA Vitality program lets you enjoy additional life coverage, and other lifestyle rewards as you choose to live a healthy lifestyle.

Parents lead the way when it comes to shaping the way their children view their health. Find out how you can take charge by learning more about Life Ready Plus and other Wellness Series products today.