All children and teens should exercise about 60 minutes each and every day.  Children do not necessarily need to exercise with weights. Kids who are active tend to have stronger muscles and bones. They also have less body fat and are less likely to become overweight. Exercise can decrease the risk of developing Type II Diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Furthermore, children who exercise feel better about themselves which can lead to a higher self-esteem. Another important correlation between exercise and children is their ability to better handle physical and emotional challenges. 

As parents, we should encourage our children to always be active and live a healthy lifestyle. With 12 years of teaching experience, I have found that children who are active are more attentive.

Allow your kids to participate in a variety of activities that work on endurance, strength and flexibility. More importantly, let your children choose which activities they would like to engage in and always support their choices. After all, exercise is about having fun while staying fit. 

Lastly, show your kids that you are active too by practicing what you preach. Do not take the elevator, use the stairs instead. Remember we only have one body; therefore ,we need to establish healthy habits and treat it right from the start.

Written by Lori Sarne, Personal Trainer at Ellis Athletic Center