The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) set up the MyPyramid to help remind families to eat right, exercise and have fun. The pyramid is divided into six food sections: grains, vegetables, fruit, oils, milk, and meat and beans. Going up along side of the pyramid are steps that symbolize activity. The USDA's MyPyramid for kids recommends that children enjoy 60 minutes of activity every day. Children typically enjoy participating in activities that are fun and ones that do not appear to be traditional exercise programs.
Aerobic
MyPyramid for Kids suggests aerobic activities such as walking, jogging, swimming and cycling for children. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and lungs and also aids in maintaining a healthy weight. Other suggestions include skating, stair climbing or setting up a backyard obstacle course or boot camp.
Strength
Strength training is also recommended by MyPyramid for Kids. Certain precautions need to be taken when a child uses weights, such as limiting the weight amount and having adult supervision. Children may use rocks, food cans, jugs of water or their own body weight to perform strength training exercises. Muscles require one day of rest in between workouts to repair themselves, so strength exercises may be performed every other day.
Sports
Pictures of children playing sports such as soccer, basketball and baseball are included on MyPyramid for kids. Some children may be interested in individual or team sports. This interest should be encouraged at a young age. Not only will the child exercise during team practices, he will spend time developing his skills at home, and this will add to his daily activity requirements.
Fun
One of the ways to motivate physical activity in children is to make it fun. Jumping in leaves, ice skating and taking a nature walk are all examples of exercise disguised as fun. Birthday parties can also be centered on fun activities such as bowling, skating, swimming or old fashioned back yard games such as relay races, volleyball or red rover.
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