It can be difficult to convince pre-teens how important it is to exercise. If you make exercise fun, however, your tween is much more likely to get involved, whether she takes ballet or plays basketball. Tweens who enjoy their exercise choices will stick with the program and learn to make exercise a priority.
Sports
Get your tween involved in his school athletic program. Baseball, football and basketball provide regular exercise and lessons in sportsmanship and teamwork. Or, head to your local recreation center and sign him up for tennis or soccer. He'll get a workout and meet new friends. If he's more of a solo player, introduce him to running, swimming or cycling. Discovering the right sport for your tween can be exhilarating for both of you. He'll find something to be passionate about and get in shape -- and you'll get the knowledge that he's actively engaged in a healthy activity.
Aerobics
Pre-teens who thrive with a lot of structure may enjoy aerobics, which is a timed activity led by an instructor. Find a good instructor who will change up the routine often so your tween won't get bored. If you can't afford pricey gym classes, find aerobics DVDs in the bargain bin at a large discount chain. You can either do them together or have your tween invite her friends over for a "get-in-shape" slumber party. Scour your town for free sample classes of fad aerobics programs, such as Zumba, to keep your tween interested and exercising.
Dance
Dancing is an excellent way to burn calories as well as build muscle tone and work on balance and poise. Sign up your pre-teen for ballet or tap-dancing lessons. If he loves learning unusual things, put him in a break-dancing or hip-hop dance class. Waltz, jazz and ballroom dance are also ways for tweens to burn calories, learn something and have fun. Don't forget belly-dancing. For tween girls who want a toned stomach, belly-dancing is a challenging but effective and fun way to get it.
Gymnastics & Martial Arts
Martial arts classes have the added benefit of teaching your tween self-defense techniques and boosting self-confidence. He'll likely also get a "kick" out of learning how to punch like action stars, in addition to learning deep breathing techniques and conflict management and experience an overall increase in strength. Try Aikido, Goju-ryu or Kempo to emphasize self-defense and strength. If your tween has a high level of energy, gymnastics could help him channel it into controlled movements that will help him build muscle and balance. For tweens who want strong arms, try working on the uneven bars or the rings.
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