How to Keep Kids Fit Without Organized Sports

Many kids play on organized sports teams such as soccor, football, and baseball. These sports teams provide both education in the game itself, teamwork training, and fitness and exercise. Joining an organized team sport is a great way for kids to stay fit. But there are kids who are not interested in organized sports. What can they do to stay fit? This article covers five great ways to keep kids fit without organized sports.

Keep Kids Fit - Dancing

Many young girls enjoy dancing. While dance classes can seem a lot like organized sports teams, with their practices and competitions, kids can also dance on their own. Get an exciting kids music CD or even a movie sign-along DVD, and let your kids go wild with dancing, jumping, and moving.

Keep Kids Fit - Hiking

Outdoor recreation is a great way to keep kids fit and give them plenty of exercise. Taking short day hikes at the local park is great for younger children, while overnight camping trips can be fun for older kids and teens. Not only will your kids get plenty of exercise, they will learn so much about the world we live in.

Keep Kids Fit - Solitary Sports

There are some sports that are more solitary than organized. These might be considered games or hobbies instead of sports, but they do give exercise just the same. Things like bowling, raquetball, and golf keep kids fit.

Keep Kids Fit - Gym Exercise

While there are some gyms that allow teenagers or older kids to join, they are not really the place for younger kids or preteens. However, it is possible to keep kids fit with at home gym-style exercise. Fitness videos work well. You can also purchase a set of hand weights and teach your kid how to do safe, yet effective exercises. Of course, things like push-ups, sit-ups, and calisthenics work also.

Keep Kids Fit - Play

One of the biggest factors in the rise of childhood obesity might be the changing face of playtime. Kids do not run outside and ride bikes, play hopscotch, and jump rope anymore. Television and video games have replaced many playtime pursuits. In order to keep your kids fit, encourage them to play active games. Take them to the park and let them run around. Buy a pogo stick and let them practice on the back patio.

Keeping kids fit is an important part of parenting. While organized sports provide this for many kids, other enjoy more solitary pursuits. Dancing, playing, hiking, games of skill, and simple exercise can help your kids stay fit and healthy.