(ARA) Not only does regular exercise promote good physical health, it has also been linked to achievement in school. So, as you prepare for the upcoming school year, establish habits with your children today that promote good health for a lifetime. It is important to remember that children need to maintain their active summer lifestyle by incorporating play and exercise in between time spent at school and doing homework.
"As families plan their fall school schedules, children's outdoor activities tend to drop off," says Jeff Zwiefel, senior vice president, Life Time Fitness, a national operator of sports, professional fitness and family recreation centers. "It's a good idea to encourage your kids to take part in activities that will help promote health and fitness awareness, and a healthy way of life year round. More frequently we are seeing less concentration of mandatory physical education programs in schools and kids need other outlets for physical activity."
A study conducted by the California Department of Education showed a significant relationship between academic achievement and the physical fitness of students. In particular, the study noted that youth receiving additional physical activity tend to show improved attributes, such as increased brain function and learning potential, higher energy and concentration levels, and increased self-esteem.
Similarly, the U.S. Surgeon General reports that aerobic activities can reduce depression, anxiety and stress. "It stands to reason that kids who are active feel better and experience a more restful sleep, which, in turn, enables success at school," says Zwiefel. " A critical part of children's physical, mental and emotional development is predicted on being physically active, whether it is informal play or planned and purposeful activities."
Consistent with these objectives, Life Time Fitness locations nationwide offer fun programs such as kids cardio, swim and gym, hot shot soccer, intro into fitness and more, all designed to support your child's health and wellbeing.
"At Life Time Fitness, we have developed a wide range of fitness programs that combine fun and exercise for children and families," says Zwiefel. "Our goal is to provide the programs and services that address the needs of individuals and families seeking a healthy way of life."
Here are a few suggestions on how to keep kids active once school starts:
* Organize after school and weekend fitness and general play activities such as swimming, family rock climbing, racquetball or karate.
* Participate in team sports such as soccer, basketball and volleyball -- all great ways to raise your child's activity level while promoting fun. Remember to allow children to play and use their creativity without tightly confined rules and high pressure.
* In addition to cardiovascular exercise, include some strength training with exercises such as push-ups and pull-ups. Always focus on making exercise fun and avoid high competition by incorporating individual challenges where everyone wins.
This fall, make sure your kids have everything they need to succeed at school, including an active lifestyle. An investment today will provide benefits for a lifetime.
For more information about Life Time Fitness centers, programs and services for children and families visit www.lifetimefitness.com, or call (800) 430-5433.
