Overweight and obese children tend to shy away from physical activity, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, reinforcing a pattern of overeating and a sedentary lifestyle that often continues into adulthood. Children often need external motivation to get them on their feet. Structured activities, especially those that involve other children, can lead to effective weight loss in kids.
Sports
Kids naturally endowed with sporting abilities usually don't have weight problems; they get enough exercise through training and games. They burn off the calories they consume, and, as a result, have more energy and more positive self-esteem, according to the Nemours Foundation. Children's sports can play a role in the lives of overweight kids who need some structure to get moving. Work with your child to find a skill he can develop with practice. Try a number of different sports before you land on one he enjoys.
Family Time
Structured family activities can play a role in keeping your whole clan fit. Whether you have a large family or just two of you, plan regular activities to do together. Hiking, cycling and walking through the park a couple times a week may feel more like fun than exercise. Instead of nagging your child to play outside or to get some exercise, participate in the fun and reap benefits for yourself. Children tend to follow the example set by parents. Children of obese, sedentary parents are more likely to develop the same habits.
Learning
Structured exercise does not have to consist of playing a sport or riding a bike. Many children thrive in situations where they learn new concepts and new skills in classes where other children are just as new to an activity. Classes that teach self-discipline while encouraging physical movement include karate and other structured martial arts activities. When it's not sold as necessary exercise, kids can become involved in their own health while learning and having fun.
Start Slow
Kids who are extremely obese may have to overcome some physical barriers before they can successfully participate in organized sports or take classes on a regular basis. Those children also need structured exercise that taps into the abilities they do possess. Look into local community programs geared toward overweight children. With a national push for more community and school-based physical fitness programs, you could find a swimming program or walking club that caters toward children who must take it slower. When challenged with a consistent, structured plan, many children will slowly lose weight and develop interests in getting even more physical. Then you can shop around for a new skateboard or bicycle.
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