Exercise

Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for children and adults alike. It is especially important when it comes to achieving and maintaining an ideal body weight because it uses up calories that could be stored as fat. Exercise is also a crucial variable in preventing heart disease and type 2 diabetes.   

When it comes to keeping kids (and adults) active the most important part is fun. Choose activities that kids will enjoy so that exercise never becomes a punishment or a chore for them. 

• Youth sports teams and active play time are ideal ways for kids to stay active. 
• Something as simple as walking is a great family activity that will increase heart rate and burn calories, as well as builds family relationships and encourages communication. 
• Other fun activities for kids are playing at the park, riding bikes, swimming, walking the dog, playing frisbee.
• Northern Arizona offers countless trails and hikes ranging from 20 minutes to all day hikes.

• Develop exercise charts for the entire family.

  If the activity is fun, kids and adults are more likely to stick with it and make it a regular part of their lifestyle.