Sitting all day has been cited as a cause of many health problems in people. Getting up and moving is important, not just for our physical health, but our overall well being. Exercise improves our energy levels and can improve our overall mood. There are different things we can do to get exercise, including one of the most popular forms of exercise, running.
George Coleman Poage was a skilled track and field athlete. He ran track in high school and college, and ultimately, he ran track in the Olympics in 1904. He came in third place in the 400-meter hurdle, becoming the first African American to win a medal at the Olympics. Click here to learn more about George Poage.
Activities
Don’t forget!!! Staying hydrated and staying cool are very important. Be cautious of very hot days and make sure to drink plenty of water.
~Dance Party – a simple, quick, and fun way to get up and move is by dancing! Put on some of your child’s favorite music and dance! There is no wrong way to dance and it doesn’t require any equipment.
Dance isn’t only a great way to get up and move, but it’s also a form of self-expression and art.
~Sports with friends or family – play a sports game with friends or family. Sports are another fun way to exercise and are a great way to build sportsmanship and bond with people.
Don’t have enough people to play a game? Playing catch or kicking a soccer ball with your child is just as good.
Don’t have any sports equipment? Make up a game with what you have around you. Balloon volleyball, playing hockey with mops and a crumpled piece of paper, anything can be made into a game.
Today’s Parent has a lot of great ideas on how to stay active indoors. Click here to see some more ideas.
~Exercise – traditional exercise is another way to get up and move. Very Well Family has some great exercises for kids, and great ways to make the exercises into games. Click here to read up on some exercises recommended for children on the Very Well Family website.