Cardiac Cycling for Kids

Cardiac Cycling for Kids
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Cardiac cycling for kids is a way to incorporate fun and easy aerobic exercise into their routine. Nine million kids are at risk of heart disease, as of 2011, mainly due to lack of exercise and weight problems. According to the Queen of Hearts Foundation, which is dedicated to the education of heart disease prevention, cardio exercise benefits the health of kids and makes them less likely to develop heart disease in their adult life.

Outdoor Exercise

Cardiac cycling engages children in an activity that also provides an opportunity to spend time outdoors with friends and family. Kids can cycle around their neighborhood if it is safe or ride cycling trails when accompanied by parents or siblings. Kids should carry a water bottle when cardio cycling because the exercise will cause them to sweat.

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiac cycling increases a kid's heart rate, which not only oxygenates his blood, but also directly affects the health of his entire cardiovascular system by engaging the heart muscle and making it stronger. This can have a long-lasting impact in the cardiovascular health of a child as he approaches adulthood. Cardio cycling should not be overdone and special care should be given to kids who have heart conditions or any type of arrhythmia. Consult the child's doctor before starting cardio cycling.

Weight Management

Kids who perform cardiac cycling on a regular basis will experience a regulation in their body weight, as the cardiovascular exercise triggers their metabolism to work more efficiently at processing food and utilizing it for energy. The Queen of Hearts Foundation estimates that 16 percent of children are overweight. Cardiac cycling can help lower this percentage. Kids should get enough protein in their diet for healthy muscles and sustainable energy when cycling.

Safety

When kids engage in cardiac cycling, they should always wear a helmet and be aware of the rules they must follow as a vehicle on the road, which includes stopping at stop signs and obeying traffic lights, says Bicycling Info. The more educated a child is about the rules and regulations she must follow when cycling, the safer it will be for her to cardio cycle. Bicycling Info provides videos that help kids learn about safe cycling practices.

References

Article reviewed by Jay Lawrence Last updated on: Apr 1, 2011

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