Cardio Exercises For Children
Are you looking for ways to improve the cardiovascular health of your children? Let them try cardio exercises that are both healthy and fun!
You probably see it happening in so many homes: Children have become inactive, slumped quietly in front of their XBox machines, television sets and 24-hour Cartoon Network, hunched over Nintendo DS’s and PSPs. No wonder they hardly get moving.
It’s so much fun to just sit down and play with all these modern gadgets. And before we know it, obesity has set in.
If you want to help your child get into shape, then you need to be where their attention is: in the fun zone. You’ll need to find activities that they will find enjoyable.
Check out these examples…
Tennis. Typically, children who love to play with computers tend to be introverts, and have a tendency to shy away from team sports. If this is your child, then introduce him or her to tennis. It gives a great cardio workout while also working various muscle groups and improving hand-eye and overall coordination. Plus, even though your child isn’t necessarily working on a team, tennis is a great way to meet and socialize with other kids.
Dance. Definitely works better in the case of extroverts. You can experiment with the music. And while it is tempting to just plug into the CD the latest rap, you might surprise yourself and your child with a classic such as Paul Anka’s 1957 version of “Diana.” Since the music sounds “new” to your children, they will comfortably try new movements also. This will also improve their sense of balance and coordination, and gives you and your children that perfect bonding moment.
Hacky sack. This is a simple cheap way to get your kids up and moving. It also teaches coordination, balance, and helps your kids socialize and work together in a group to accomplish something. Plus, unlike most group sports, there are no teams so children are trying to beat their old records instead of trying to win.
Soccer. This is a great way to get your child’s heart rate up, because there is a lot of running and strong kicking involved. Another plus is that your child will improve his or her social skills, not to mention their fancy footwork!
Video games. You might be wondering how video games can boost your child’s cardio-vascular health. Yes, I’m referring to the popular Dance Dance Revolution, where children are encouraged to dance about and step on designated symbols on the floor. You’ve probably also heard about the Nintendo Wii, which gets players to use practically their entire body. It’s fun, it’s addictive, and it’s a terrific way to exercise your heart.
Swimming. What could be more perfect on a summer afternoon than to splash about in a pool? If your kids are too bored to do laps, engage them in a game of water polo. As an added benefit, the water will protect your children’s bones and joints from the hard effects of gravity. And when you take a break, nothing beats hanging around the pool, and chilling with a tall glass of iced tea and a great circle of friends and family.
Jumping / Skipping rope. This is not just for boxer’s, although you might wonder why jumping or skipping rope is an essential part of a boxer’s physical regiment. This is one quick way to get your heart rate up, and still do everything in a small area. The fun element comes in once you get into competitive team skipping.
Who says getting into shape has to be boring? And relax… you’ll be surprised how excited your children will be once they get introduced to these “classic” sports or games. We adults may take these for granted, but in the eyes of a child, anything new will attract them.
Yes, even if it’s a great cardio exercise for them. Happy exercising! 
