As childhood obesity rates continue to rise, it's more important than ever to help kids establish healthy fitness habits and make physical activity a daily priority.
However, getting kids to be active can be challenging in today's world of screens and sedentary entertainment. The key is to make fitness fun for children.
Here are five ways to keep your kids active and fit while also having a great time:
1. Create an at-home obstacle course
Use things like hula hoops, jump ropes, cushions, and other household items to create an obstacle course in your living room.
Take turns timing each other to complete the course. This makes fitness into a game that kids will want to play over and over.
2. Go for a family bike ride
Cycling together as a family is a great way to be active while also spending quality time together.
If kids are at different cycling levels, choose more casual rides or get bikes that allow for child seats or attachments so everyone can go at their own pace.
Location suggestion:
Sha Tin (Tai Wai) to Tai Po
Po Kong Village Road Park
Cheung Chau
Tung Chung to Sunny Bay
Nam Sang Wai
New Territories Cycle Track Network
3. Play active indoor games.
Classic games like hopscotch, jump rope and Simon Says get kids moving without them even realizing it's exercise.
You can also try dance/yoga videos
designed for kids. If it's raining or cold outside, these indoor games are perfect for high-energy kids.
4. Practice sports skills.
Whether kids are interested in basketball, soccer, tennis or another sport, practicing the skills involved provides physical activity and also builds motivation to keep improving.
You don't need a full court or all the equipment to work on fundamentals at home or at the park.
Focus on having fun while learning and practising the skills.
5. Get a family dog
Dog ownership motivates kids to be active through walking, running and playing. Even taking out the garbage or fetching the mail becomes an opportunity for physical activity and bonding time with your pet.
The responsibilities of helping take care of a dog also help kids develop in other ways.
Looking for more ways to keep kids active and engaged over the Easter break?
Check out our 4-days Youth Athletic Camp from April 5-8.
Kids will participate in exciting obstacle courses, track and field practices and other fitness challenges while making new friends and learning the value of an active lifestyle.
Spaces are limited, so register now!
Kids deserve a happy, healthy Easter break. Hope to see you there!
Writer’s Bio
Jasmine is the research and administrative intern at Qintensity, a health and wellness consultation institute. She grew up in Hong Kong and studied overseas in Canada for a couple of years, currently studying Biomedical Science at CUHK. She is passionate about laboratory medicine and seeking clinical solutions to health problems. She is also empowered to educate people on proper exercising and nurturing their overall wellness using her science background due to her interest in fitness and mental health.
Credentials Highlights: Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Science at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (ongoing); HKPFA Certified Physical Fitness coach, Certified CPR