April 24, 2023 by Dr. Stephen Fose, PT, Cert. MDT, CSCS
Teaching Kids To Exercise is Best By Showing, Rather Than Telling
Author: Dr. Stephen Fose, PT, Cert. MDT, CSCS, Owner of Retrieve Physical Therapy in Rochester NY in the Spencerport Village. He has two daughters and has slowly shown them to stretch, strengthen, and dance to stay healthy. We specialize in spine treatment, as well as pain-relief for busy parents, DIYers, and small business owners. Reach out to us at info@retrievept.com for more information.
or busy parents, finding time for exercise can be a challenge. Between work, taking care of the kids, cooking meals, and running errands, there never seems to be enough time in the day. However, incorporating exercise into your daily routine can be easier than you think. Not only can you improve your own health, but you can also teach your kids about the importance of staying active. Here are some simple ways busy parents can sneak in exercise and teach their kids the benefits:
- Stretching while watching TV
Most of us spend some time in front of the TV at the end of a busy day. Instead of just sitting on the couch, take advantage of this time by doing some stretches. You can stretch your legs, arms, and neck while catching up on your favorite show. You can also encourage your kids to join in by doing simple stretches like touching their toes or reaching up to the ceiling.
- Walking or biking to school
If your child’s school is nearby, consider walking or biking instead of driving. This will not only help you and your child get some exercise, but it will also save you time and money on gas. If the school is too far away to walk or bike, consider parking a few blocks away and walking the rest of the way. This will give you and your child some extra exercise and time to bond before and after school.
- Doing chores together
Chores are a necessary part of life, but they can also be a great way to get some exercise. Doing household chores like vacuuming, sweeping, or cleaning can help you burn calories while also keeping your house clean. You can also make chores more fun by turning them into a game or a competition. For example, see who can fold the laundry the fastest or who can clean their room the best.
- Taking the stairs instead of the elevator
Taking the stairs is a simple way to get some extra exercise into your day. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or visiting a friend’s apartment, opt for the stairs instead of the elevator. This will not only help you stay active, but it will also save you time waiting for the elevator. You can also turn taking the stairs into a fun challenge with your kids. See who can climb the stairs the fastest or who can do the most flights of stairs in a row.
- Doing strength exercises during commercials
If you’re someone who likes to watch TV, consider doing some strength exercises during commercial breaks. You can do simple exercises like push-ups, squats, or lunges to work on your strength and endurance. You can also encourage your kids to join in by doing modified versions of these exercises like wall push-ups or chair squats.
- Playing with your kids
Playing with your kids is not only a great way to bond, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise. You can play games like tag, hide-and-seek, or soccer to get your heart rate up and burn some calories. You can also take your kids to the park to play on the swings or climb on the jungle gym.
- Doing yoga or stretching before bed
Doing some gentle yoga or stretching before bed can help you relax and unwind after a busy day. You can do simple stretches like child’s pose, downward dog, or seated forward fold to help stretch out your muscles and calm your mind. You can also encourage your kids to join in by doing some simple yoga poses or stretches.
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine doesn’t have to be a chore. By finding simple ways to sneak in exercise throughout the day, you can improve your health and teach your kids the importance of staying active. Whether you’re stretching while watching TV, doing chores together, or playing with your kids, there are plenty.
You can reach Retrieve Physical Therapy at (585) 300-4940 or by email at stephenfose@retrievept.com