Thank you for joining us at the American Heart Walk on Sunday. Your support for your community is amazing. We have decided to continue our hearth healthy series by offering a weekly article from the American Heart Association. Courtesy of this amazing organization, we bring you tips on getting those non-athlete family members active.
Team sports are a great way for kids to get their daily activity requirement, but competitive sports aren’t for everyone. Here are some ways to encourage your “non-athlete” to get up and get moving.
Don't make exercise a punishment. Forcing your child to go out and play may increase resentment and resistance. Try using physical activity to counter something your child doesn’t want to do. For instance, make it the routine that your child can ride a bike for 30 minutes before starting homework after school. Your child will beg for 20 more minutes outside just to put off the homework!
Find an activity they love. Some kids just don’t like competing in sports. That’s OK, there are lots of other ways to be active! Try swimming, horseback riding, dancing, cycling, skateboarding, yoga, walking or jumping rope. Encourage your child to explore multiple activities to find one they really enjoy. Build confidence. Some kids are embarrassed to participate in sports because they don’t think they’re good enough. Find time to practice together and boost their confidence.
Ready to learn more? Go to www.heart.org for more information or support your next, local walk at putnamheartwalk.org.
