Keeping Your Child Physically Fit

Everyone needs to exercise, especially young children. Their bodies are still growing and exercise will help to keep them strong and healthy.

Unfortunately, children today are not as active as we adults were as children. In fact statistics show that the average child spends close to 28 hours a week watching television, playing video games, or using a computer. The fact is it is hard to be physically fit if you are not moving your body.

For a child to be healthy and stay physically fit they need to be exercising for at least 60 minutes three times a week There are numerous way to get outside and have some fun with your child and still get your heart rate up at the same time.

Try to plan an activity that the entire family will enjoy. Basketball, bike riding, dancing, soccer, skateboarding, kickball, walking, or roller skating are all excellent choices. The more your child exercises the more excited they will become about making physical fitness a part of their daily life.

However, exercise is only part of keeping your child physically fit. Much of how your child feels and performs on a daily basis will be a direct result of the foods they eat. A well balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods is essential for good health.

Important nutrients include carbohydrates for energy, protein to help build strong bones and muscles, and a limited amount of fats to keep their bodies warm and protect vital organs. Vitamins and minerals are needed to help build strong body tissue, blood cells and teeth.

One of your child's most important nutritional needs is water. Water makes up about 70 percent of a child's body weight and is necessary for many of the chemical reactions happening inside your child's body. Most children drink about half of their daily water requirements, with the remainder coming from the foods they consume such as vegetables and fruits.