Childwise Exercise

The American Heart Association and other health-conscious organizations recommend that people exercise regularly - that adults should have half an hour of exercise per day, five days a week. But what about kids?

The recommendations are different for children and are dependant upon their age. For infants, exercise is more about motor development and early recognition and coordination. Toddlers should get one and a half hours of exercise a day, mixing what they call "free play" (running around, playing in the yard, etcetera) with a structured activity. They recommend a similar mix of "free play" and planned activities for preschoolers, but with the suggested time bumped up to two hours per day. Elementary schoolers and their older siblings ought to get between half an hour to an hour of exercise a day, but it does not have to be a solid hour. In fact, it is better for them to have a break between activities, to cool down a little, have a water break, then focus on a new activity.

In this day and age of fast food frenzy and childhood obesity, it is important that kids eat right and exercise regularly. With proper exercise, kids will gain muscle tone and get a leaner form with body definition.

Exercise also helps lower blood pressure and, in turn, stress. If kids have had a crazy day at school, then come home, turn on their favorite CD, and dance to their heart's content, it will release all of that pent-up stress and energy in a positive, fun manner. Dance will benefit your children in so many ways: socially, physically, mentally, and creatively. Give them a chance to show you their favorite dance!

Babies and toddlers also benefit from Mommy and Me (or Daddy and Me) class. It's a fun time to bond with your kids, to be goofy with them and to dance with them to the music. If you want a calmer atmosphere, check out yoga classes for little kids and families. These classes are quieter and they teach a lot of strength poses and stretching. They also have elements of meditation and thought, making you calmer and more thoughtful.