Don't let the summer vibes keep your family from fitness. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says physical activity in kids improves strength and endurance, builds healthy bones and lean muscles, develops motor skills and coordination, reduces fat, and promotes emotional well-being (reduces feelings of depression and anxiety). But, that doesn't mean they should do all the things you do. The AAP says activities for kids should be appropriate for their age and fun. Always offer variety, too. Keep in mind that the AAP recommends kids be active for an hour each day. This includes things like brisk walking, jogging, dancing, rollerblading, hiking, jump rope, etc. Not to mention the time your child spends in organized sports. This one hour recommendation doesn't have to be done all at one time, either. Maybe 10 minutes of walking followed by 30 minutes of dancing and later 20 minutes of playing basketball. The choice is yours.
Stay healthy and strong all summer long with Sports*Com's MurFree Fit Family Summer Challenge. Kids and parents alike can pledge to stay active and healthy and be MurFree Fit. All you have to do is be active at least five days a week for six weeks. That's 30 minutes a day for adults and one hour per day for kids. This can be anything active and fun you do with your family. Consider all the outdoor activities you have planned for the summer. Are any of them active like swimming, biking, hiking, etc.? Those count! Don't forget your workouts, too. Log those as well.
Track your progress online and turn them in at the end of your six weeks for a certificate and T-shirt (T-shirts are $10). You can start any time beginning Saturday, June 1, but you must complete your pledge by July 31. Registration takes place at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro) now through June 21. For more info, contact Allison Davidson at 615-895-5040 or e-mail her at adavidson@murfreesborotn.gov.
