Health & Parenting

Kid Fitness: When Your Child Won't Exercise

Kid Fitness Tip #7: Use exercise as a reward. continued...

Kid Fitness Tip #10: Instill the idea that exercise is in.

Some kids really respond to the concept of doing something that's cool. Maybe your child wants to grind on a skateboard like Tony Hawke, deliver a karate kick a la Bruce Lee, learn the latest hip hop routine, or master the moves of capoeira. Older children, in particular, may have strong opinions about what's hip and what isn't. If it's safe and active and encourages your child to get in shape, then allow your kid to pick an activity that appeals to his sense of style.

Kid Fitness Tip #11: Put your child in charge.

Let each kid take a turn choosing an active weekend pursuit or after school activity. The nature lover may vote for a hike, the adventurer may opt for a trip to the nearest jungle gym or climbing wall. More sedentary souls may select an activity -- like walking, biking, or scootering -- with a destination in mind, such as a visit to the local library. Whether you wind up at a batting cage, bowling alley, or belly dancing class, they all count as children's fitness activities and your child can feel a sense of control over the situation. For younger kids, however, you may want to limit how many options they have to choose from.

Kid Fitness Tip #12: Make it fun.

Little children don't need much encouragement to stretch like a cat, run like a tiger, or jump like a kangaroo. And they'll have a blast doing it. And don't forget, grade schoolers still enjoy the opportunity for free play -- inside or out -- after a day spent at the desk. Stuck inside with tweens or teens on a rainy day? Then break out an action-oriented dance video game, to get your youngsters expending some energy. Younger children may enjoy just putting on some music to dance up a storm together. Whatever the activity, you want to keep the fun in kid fitness.