Get Kids off the Couch: Raising Active Kids

In a world full of digital stimulation, it can be hard to pull kids away from their screens long enough for them to get some exercise. This means that, according to healthychildren.org, less than only 1 in 3 children are physically active every day and that children and teens spend more than 7 hours per day on average using TVs, computers, phones, and other electronic devices for entertainment. The United States is paying the price for our sedentary lifestyle as 1 in 3 children are either overweight or obese. 

So, how do we help our kids get healthier and get them off the couch when there are so many reasons to stay on their butts? Here are just a few ways you can raise active kids!

Stay Active as a Family

Everyone is much more likely to workout when they do it with people they love. It builds accountability and community and just makes it more fun. If you go walking or bike riding as a family it becomes about more than just staying active, it becomes about bonding and spending time together. 

Have a Plan (And stick to it)

The staple of any good workout plan, having a plan is even more important when kids are involved. It seems there is always something filling the schedule when you have kids so make sure to set aside a particular time and place for them to be active. Once you pick a time, make sure you can both stick it. If you miss once, you’re way more likely to miss again. 

This could also mean limiting time spent on other things to make sure your kids have time to get active. Many kids are so over-scheduled with homework and activities that they don’t have time to be active. If their extracurriculars don’t get them active, it’s up to you to work that time in. 

Find Something They Enjoy

Kids don’t have as much discipline as adults (let’s face it, not a lot of adults have a ton of discipline!) so they are a lot less likely to workout just because they know they should. They ARE more likely to workout if it’s disguised as something they like doing. It doesn’t have to be a sport, either. Biking, hiking, jump roping, and swimming are all great activities that get kids moving and don’t really “feel” like exercise. Heck, even just running around the playground is better than sitting on the couch!

Of course, if they enjoy sports, this is a great way to go. Try one they enjoy watching on TV to get started. 

Limit TV Time

While it seems obvious that you have to turn off the TV to be active, this could also mean setting certain hours where the TV is off limits. When the TV isn’t even an option, kids will be forced to find other sources of entertainment. 

Set a Good Example

If you’re active, they’ll be active. If you spend most of your time on the couch….well, you get the idea. Do the things you want to see them doing so you never have to say, “Do as I say, not as I do.” 

Always make sure to consult your doctor, or your child’s doctor, before starting a new workout plan. Your child’s exercise needs will be different than yours, so make sure you know where to start. And if you’re out running and playing with your kids, make sure you’re supported! When you're walking, running, or just living life, wear Orange Insoles in your shoes to support healthy alignment and even out your weight distribution.