by Jenny Gaal, Fitness Director
I think it is safe to say that I am not the only one running out of ideas to keep the kids busy this summer and burn off all their energy. Let’s face it- Kids need exercise! When most adults think about exercise, they imagine working out in the gym on a treadmill or lifting weights. But for kids, exercise means playing and being physically active. The Kids Performance Fit class is the perfect way to incorporate exercise and fun into your kid’s day- whether your goals are to condition for a fall sport, break the lazy days of summer or just to try something new! Try a Trial Class today!
The Many Benefits of Exercise
Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. Kids who are active will:
- have stronger muscles and bones
- have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat
- be less likely to become overweight
- decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- possibly lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels
- have a better outlook on life
Besides enjoying the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges — from running to catch a bus to studying for a test.
The Three Elements of Fitness
If you’ve ever watched kids on a playground, you’ve seen the three elements of fitness in action when they:
- run away from the kid who’s “it” (endurance)
- cross the monkey bars (strength)
- bend down to tie their shoes (flexibility)
Parents should encourage their kids to do a variety of activities so that they can work on all three elements.
Endurance is developed when kids regularly engage in aerobic activity. During aerobic exercise, the heart beats faster and a person breathes harder. When done regularly and for extended periods of time, aerobic activity strengthens the heart and improves the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to all its cells.
Improving strength doesn’t have to mean lifting weights. Push-ups, stomach crunches, pull-ups, and other exercises help tone and strengthen muscles.
Stretching exercises help improve flexibility, allowing muscles and joints to bend and move easily through their full range of motion. Kids look for opportunities every day to stretch when they try to get a toy just out of reach, practice a split, or do a cartwheel.
Kids Performance Fit Classes are offered Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm
