Keeping children busy during the summer can seem like a challenge for many parents.
And if it can be tempting to leave them in front of the screens to have peace, it is however essential for their physical and psychological health that they can spend themselves with physical and social activities. According to recommendations from the British Health Services, children aged 5 to 18 should average at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. So fitness, wellness and nutrition expert Penny Weston has three tips for keeping your kids active.
The bike
If you’re looking for an easy way to get your kids moving outdoors, biking is a great option.
“Cycling has all kinds of benefits, such as stress relief and muscle building,” she advises. “It strengthens the whole body and improves cardiovascular fitness. »
walking
Walking is arguably the easiest way to get kids to exercise, especially when the sun is out. Indeed, a good walk can easily turn into an exciting adventure for a child.
“Walking is great for improving muscular endurance, increasing energy levels and improving cardiovascular fitness,” added Penny Weston. “When we walk, our breathing rate increases, which allows oxygen to move faster through our bloodstream, which is why our energy levels are improved. »
Collective activities
Socialization is a key part of child development and a great way to make physical activity more fun.
“Sports clubs are a great way to develop your child’s social skills, teach them new ways to play sports, and allow them to interact with different people in a safe environment,” she continues. “Dance classes or football clubs are perfect for that. »
And to conclude: “Any exercise has a really positive impact on your mental health, but this is all the more true with outdoor sport. The sun naturally stimulates the production of feel-good hormones and the fresh air will help your children sleep better. »