7 Fun Cardio Exercises for Kids

With all the T.V. shows, computer programs, and video games available now, it’s harder to get kids up and moving anymore.  That’s one big reason why childhood obesity is becoming more and more prevalent.  But getting your child in shape doesn’t have to be a fight; you just have to find activities they enjoy that are good for them as well.  Here are some great workouts that will entertain your kids at the same time - just like you, if kids have fun while exercising, they are more likely to want to do it, and summer is a great time to get them motivated to get active.

Kids playing soccer at beach. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1. Tennis.  If your child isn’t into traditional team sport, then tennis is a great alternative.  It gives a great cardio workout while also working various muscle groups and improving hand-eye and overall coordination.  Plus, even though your child isn’t necessarily working on a team, tennis is a great way to meet and socialize with other kids.

2. Hacky sack.  This is a simple cheap way to get your kids up and moving.  It also teaches coordination, balance, and helps your kids socialize and work together in a group to accomplish something.  Plus, unlike most group sports, there are no teams so children are trying to beat their old records instead of trying to win - a great thing to focus on as they get older and take on other activities as well.   

3. Dance.  Sure, you can enroll your child in dance classes, or you could just turn on the radio a couple times a week and make up silly dances to go along with the songs.  This not only encourages movement, balance, and coordination, it also works out kid’s brains by getting their imaginations going. (My little sister was great at this when she was younger - she would make up whole interpretive dance routines to songs that she liked - which was really fun to watch as well!) 

Dance Dance Revolution (TV video games) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

4. Video games.  Although these have gotten a bad rap in the past few years, physical video games have come a long way since the original Nintendo.  Now there are tons of products available that get your child to stand up and move.  One popular game series is Dance Dance Revolution.  There are also games on the new Nintendo Wii system that encourage physical movement.  These are a fun and entertaining way for your kids to get a workout while they play video games, so if they're stuck inside on a rainy day, they don't have to skip their exercise.  And trust me - these are just as addictive as other video games....    

5. Soccer.  There’s a reason there are so many soccer moms around; because these moms know that soccer is a great way for children to get their heart rate up, improve their footwork skills, learn teamwork, and have fun at the same time.  Plus, if you’re worried about the problem of intense competition, there are many areas with leagues that don’t keep score.  This has always been and still is a great way for your kids to stay in shape. 

6. Swimming.  Doing laps is a great way to get an aerobic workout without causing a lot of wear and tear on your child’s growing bones and joints.  It’s fantastic at increasing endurance and stamina.  Plus, a pool is a great place for them to hang out, play, and meet new kids in the neighborhood during the summer.

7. Jumping rope.  This is a great workout whether it’s done the traditional way, or the newer more fast-paced version.  It improves cardiovascular capacity, works numerous muscles and joints, and helps improve coordination. This can also help your child meet new people, and in some areas it may even be a competitive sport. 

So why not get your child involved in one (or several) of these great activities this summer?  You can even get a workout in yourself by joining them or just helping them practice regularly - that's quality healthy time for the whole family!