Winter Fitness Ideas for Kids

If your kids are getting restless during the long winter months, try these creative fitness ideas from Kids Health and The American Heart Association.

Exercise is important for children because it helps to reduce the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Regular physical activity also improves mental acuity, reduces the risk of depression, improves energy levels, strengthens muscles, improves sleep, boosts the immune system, and keeps the bones and joints healthy.

For optimum health, the American Heart Association recommends children get at least one hour of moderate to rigorous physical activity each day. Since kids spend more time indoors during the winter, it can be hard for them to get the recommended amount of exercise.
Don’t let your kids sit around like lumps just because it’s cold outside. These winter fitness ideas will help keep them active and fit all year long.

Freestyle Dancing Helps Children Stay Fit During Winter

No need to spend hundreds of dollars on dance classes just to keep children active during the winter. Simply pop some upbeat music into the CD player and let your kids boogie on down. When children freestyle dance, they may pump their arms, move their legs, twirl around, and sway back and forth.
These types of movements activate the core muscles, and work large muscle groups to help condition and tone the body. The fast-paced movements of dancing to upbeat tunes also revs up the metabolism and makes it easier for kids to maintain a healthy weight.

Yoga is a Great Winter Fitness Idea for Kids

Yoga is a low impact way for kids to burn calories and improve their flexibility. This winter fitness idea not only helps youngsters stay in shape, it relaxes them, improves their concentration, and teaches them self-awareness. Yoga DVDS are readily available, so kids can practice in the comforts of their own homes.

Portable Play Equipment Can Keep Kids Physically Active in Winter

Hula hoops, jump ropes and tumble mats can be used indoors during the winter months to help kids stay fit. When children jump rope, hula hoop and flip and roll on mats, they work many different muscle groups to help tone and condition their bodies. The portable play equipment can be easily tossed in the closet when kids are finished.
Active Video Games Help Kids Stay Fit in Winter
If kids are going to stay inside and play video games, they might as well work up a sweat while they’re doing it. Active video games such as the Nintendo Wii requires kids to get up off the couch and move their bodies to play. Of course, these games can't replace real sports activities, but they do give kids a good workout every time they play.