Fitness and Kids

Keto diet secrets for weight loss and good health

2023-11-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

What's the fuss? Childhood obesity

2018-09-15T03:55:00.002-07:00

Why Women need to Weight Train

2018-09-12T11:44:00.001-07:00

Why women need to weight train

Again and again research has shown women who weight train regularly enjoy many health benefits. Although some women still fear that weight training will make them big and bulky. However women's attitudes are changing on this and we are seeing more and more women in the weight room.
Listed Below are some of important reasons why women should train with weights and take it more seriously.

1. You will lose fat, while you are gaining muscle and you will not bulk up like a man since men have way more of the hormone that causes bulking.

2. Adding muscle increases your resting metabolic rate(the rate at which your body burns calories) so the more lean muscle you have the more calories you will burn throughout the day.

3. Weight training will make you stronger and you will be able to Accomplish daily activities with ease.

4.Your bones benefit. Weight training increase bone density so strength training is great against Osteoporosis.

5.Adult onset diabetes is a growing problem for men and women and this can help reduce your risk.

6.Weight training improves your cholesterol and blood pressure.

7. If you are an athlete or play a sport strength training is a Big Plus!

And last but not least weight training is very beneficial for depression. You will fee much more confident and capable of Achieving your goals. So go ahead ladies give weight training a try, you will love it!

Check out Amyl guard weight loss!
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Author: Denise Nero-owner of Fitnessandkids.com

Fitness and Kids

2018-09-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Fitness and Kids

Parents, what is your biggest challenge or fear when it comes to keeping you and your kids healthy?

Has healthy eating and physical exercise taken the back seat to your busy lives.
Are you concerned about your kids? Are they getting enough exercise?

Check out our Fitness and Kids ebook resource guide from fitnessandkids.com

Childhood Obesity—What’s the fuss?

2018-09-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

Some may feel like the recent publicity about childhood obesity is just hype. But childhood obesity can lead to bigger problems for kids when they grow up. Studies show that overweight children have a 70 to 80 percent chance of being overweight as adults.

And there are other risk factors, too. Studies show that overweight children have a great chance of developing diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

You can help your child from becoming obese or you can help him or her lose weight if they are struggling. Here are some things you can do.

• Don’t let your kids eat when they are bored. Teach them not to eat while they are reading, watching television, or playing video games.

• Don’t use food as a reward. Use more proactive things such as a new book, shopping time, manicures or pampering.

• Involve the whole family in eating and exercise. Do not single them out.

• Make slow changes so they do not feel attacked and hide food.

• Praise frequently for healthy choices and exercise. Stay away from all negative comments and connotations

• Set goals as a family. Don't make them scale related.

• Have more active days. Plan active days.

• Have them pack lunches with you so they will have items they will eat, steer clear of school lunches.

Remember that there are no weight loss medications approved for children. Childhood obesity is not just a North American problem anymore. Read more at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4930264.stm.

Be an Example for Your Kids Eating Habits

2018-09-08T11:27:00.001-07:00

A popular country song called “I’ve Been Watching You” is the story of a man who realizes that his son is imitating him—his good habits and his bad habits. If you want your children to adapt healthy eating habits, then you must set the example. Here are some ways you can use this priceless teaching tool with your children:

1. Include a variety of foods on your plate. How can you convince your children to eat their vegetables if you don’t put them on your plate?

2. If you leave something off your plate talk about why. Let your children know its okay to not always like certain foods or if you're allergic discuss that as well.

3. Avoid junk foods like chips and soda and opt for healthy snacks like carrot sticks and 100% fruit juice.

4. Shop together. Shopping is part of food preparation and a child can learn a lot in the produce section.

5. Always wash your hands before handling food and encourage your child to do the same.

6. When having sweets and treats like ice cream talk about moderation and portion sizes and not over eating, count scoops into the bowl, etc. If you tell your child a food is forbidden they will likely want it more. This may spawn habits of sneaking treats and then bingeing on them.

7. Avoid eating during television programs or in front of the television. It’s harder to keep track of how much you are eating when you are distracted by the television.

8. Drink plenty of water each day.

9. Have regular meals each day. If you skip lunch your child is likely to do the same. With sports activities, school and your professional responsibilities, you may have to make adjustments as far as the time you eat. But make sure your children understand that all three meals (yes, even breakfast) are important.

10. Take your time and chew your food. Often adults are in a hurry and kids pick up on this habit as well.

Author Denise Nero, Owner of www.fitnessandkids.com Stop by Fitness and Kids and pick up your Kids Nutrition guide

Winter Activities for Children to Keep Them Healthy

2018-09-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

With childhood obesity becoming a problem, more and more parents are on the look out for things to do with their children to get them off the couch and doing something constructive. Some of you might find it a bit hard to do during the winter months, but we have found winter fitness activities for kids.

There is nothing wrong with getting them outside. There are tons of things that you and your kids can do in the snow so as to work some muscles and get some exercise in. One of those things is that you guys can build forts and have a snowball fight. Not only is it fun, but it's a game that causes the heart to speed up and so forth.

There are some winter sports that go on as well that you can be a part of. Many times, there are places that have basketball indoors so kids have something to do during the winter months. Some sports centers have indoor soccer with teams that kids can join.

Sledding is another thing that you can do. The whole family can enjoy it. The bigger the hills to climb, the more exercise you and the whole family get when you climb back up to slide back down again. Sometimes the simple winter things that we love doing, we don't even stop to think about the physical fitness that is involved.

The wii system is one last thing that can bring your family some fun. Unlike other video games, this one makes you actually do the actions so that you are getting somewhat of a workout. If you don't want to bring children out in the cold, then this is one option for keeping your children healthy.
Check out: Video game Fitness- Dance Revolution

Starting your Child on an Exercise Program

2018-09-07T18:58:00.000-07:00

Starting your child on an exercise program

Exercise programs for kids are hugely important. America holds the not so illustrious title of the fattest nation in the world and this moment, our kids are poised to inherit that title. That is something that all parents would not find as a particularly comforting thought.

For those of you not yet convinced that an exercise program for your kids isn’t a priority: The American Obesity Association states the single largest factor in childhood obesity is lack of physical activity and excessive sedentary behavior—that is to say, watching too much TV and playing too many video games.

Why Start My Child on an Exercise Program?

Outside of the social pariah status of the obese in our society, there are significant, easily avoidable health risks involved with obesity. The AOA lists common health conditions associated with children who are obese because of lack of regular exercise. These conditions include asthma, Type 2 Diabetes, hypertension, orthopedic problems, and most frightening, sleep apnea—a condition in which breathing ceases during sleeping. Obviously not permanently, but the effects are loss of focus and a significant increase in the loss of logical thought.

An exercise program for your children is so important because of the large amount of health problems associated with those are inactive—namely obesity. Since 1974, the number of children classified as obese under the age of 11 has increased more than four times; from roughly 4 per cent to over 16 per cent in 2000 with the single largest cause of obesity is lack of exercise.

To help your child avoid these health risks, not to mention the psychological risks of being outcast because of weight, you need to set them up on a regular exercise program. Children’s exercise programs are not hard to do—just get them outside or keep them inside, but focus on them getting active.

It’s important to realize than a children’s exercise program does not necessarily mean pumping iron—rather it has more to do with cardiovascular activities that burn lots of energy. Examples of great cardiovascular activities are running, swimming, rowing, canoeing, rock climbing—the list goes on. It also doesn’t need to be simply running—it can be a game of tag, catch, playing soccer outdoors; anything that gets your kids heart beating and gets them sweating a bit.

Research has also shown that obese children tend to be more depressed than other children who are fit. In addition, physical activities, especially cardiovascular activities can actually make you feel great. The so called “runner’s high” is caused when someone who is engaged a high amount of cardiovascular activity gets a massive dump of dopamine into the brain—a chemical that instills a euphoric state in the person doing the activity, a natural high.

It would seem logical that getting your child on an exercise program should be a paramount as a parent to ensure the health and happiness of your child. But along with the exercise goes a good diet, healthy relationships, staying active, and of course, laughing a lot. All of these things contribute to your child’s life, and an exercise program for your child is, in reality, just a piece of the puzzle.

Visit: Fitness and kids- Resource ebook for fighting childhood obesity

Child Nutrition—Creating Healthy Eating Habits Early

2018-09-07T07:45:00.001-07:00

Child Nutrition

Creating Healthy Eating Habits Early
In today’s pleasure based society, it is difficult to create a healthy diet for yourself, let alone your children. Children are the target of a significant amount of advertising of unhealthy and sugar-ridden foods. Child nutrition is potentially one of the most challenging aspects of raising a child for the simple reason that you, as a parent, are up against the entire advertising industry in getting your kids to eat healthy.

That being said, you should start creating the healthy eating habits early. If you create the foundation for your child’s nutrition when they are younger, they will have a better chance of eating healthier as an adolescent, and as an adult. In fact, healthy eating for your child, and their nutrition, is potentially one of the best things you can teach your child.

How to Start Early with Child Nutrition

Well, that’s simple; keep the simple sugars in your child’s diet to a minimum. They are part of our diet for sure, but proportionally, they are a very small aspect of it. Keep the simple sugars for small desserts, such as a cupcake, for example, is good for after dinner.
Of course the hardest part of this is the fact that most of the time, your kids will want more than just “every once in a while” with their sugar. The trick to this is not to deny them, just to find ways around it. Suggest fruits, which have natural sugar in them as well as many other healthy ingredients for your child’s overall nutrition.

Surprisingly enough, out of all the types of “treats” out there, chocolate is most likely the healthiest. Chocolate, research suggests, is healthy for the heart, helps keep blood pressure low, includes anti-oxidants to keep from getting sick, and helps keep fat from building up in your arteries. However, it is best to keep in mind that this is pure chocolate—straight from the cocoa nut without any sugar added – and this is an incredibly bitter substance. So, while chocolate is good for you, your average Hershey’s bar isn’t quite that much of a solution because of the added sugar.

However, using chocolate as the reward or dessert is much healthier than most other sugar laden treats out there, but should still be eaten in moderation. Another tactic that can be beneficial is by using healthier foods as rewards—such as vegetables with ranch, tortilla chips with salsa, and the like. While still not the healthiest foods on the planet, they are significantly better for you child’s nutrition than straight up candy and pop.

Perhaps the most important aspect of your child’s nutrition is going to be having a balanced meal. What constitutes a balanced meal in terms of child nutrition will differ greatly based on who you talk to. It also depends on your child, their activity level, body type, etc. But as a general rule, having a meal with a majority of protein, preferably animal protein, a small amount of carbs, such as a piece of bread or a potato, and a legume with every meal is a fairly balanced meal for all walks a life, regardless of the age. Having meat in your diet provides you with calcium for your bones, protein for muscle development, and fats that you can use for energy. The legumes will give you a variety of nutrients, depending on the particular legume that you pick, as well as a secondary source of protein.

The carbohydrates will provide your child with “instant” energy. The carbs found in bread, pasta and potatoes is processed much the same way sugar is in your body, and your body can burn the carbs quickly without much processing needed. However, carbs need to be used sparingly—if your child isn’t as active, likes to sit around and doesn’t use the carbs he is taking in, as otherwise those carbs will be converted to fat and stored.

The idea is that by instilling these kinds of ideas and rationale into your children at an early age in terms of their childhood nutrition, you will help them the rest of their lives by providing a strong support of what their diet is supposed to be like. Similarly, avoid fast food like the plague. Some experts suggest not eating fast food more than once every three months, and only then too as a last resort. That is the biggest threat to your child’s nutrition and overall health

Nutrition for Kids-Complete guide on proper nutrition for your kids https://fitnessandkids.com/product/slay-childhood-obesity/

The Benefits of Rebounding

2017-06-27T18:26:00.001-07:00

The Benefits of Rebounding

If you’ve ever seen a child on a trampoline, you know how many hours of fun they can have on them. As a matter of fact, it’s often quite a feat tearing him or her away from it. There’s just something about bouncing around that is almost addictive. Little do kids realize what great exercise they’re getting. Trampolines are available in many different sizes.
There are large ones that will hold several people, smaller ones for two or three, and the tiny ones that one person can jump in place on. But there is also a type of trampoline called a rebounder, which can provide great exercise opportunities.

A rebounder is similar in size to a one-person mini-trampoline, but is designed specifically for maximum benefit when exercising. It is ultra-strong, and used properly is easy on joints while providing an excellent physical workout. Rebounding burns fat, builds core strength, and can greatly improve your balance and coordination.
Few other exercises offer all of these benefits in such an appealing way. Rebounders are great for kids because they are fun. Even children who are not inclined to participate in sports or other physical activities often enjoy jumping.

So even the most stubborn video game lover will quite possibly use a rebounder without any persuasion. Another great thing about rebounders is their compact size. They do not take up nearly as much space as most exercise equipment, and some even fold up for easy storage. Unlike most trampolines, they can be used indoors. That means that worries about the weather do not have to have a negative impact on exercise time.

Perhaps one of the most important advantages of rebounding is its safety. The rebounder’s springs absorb almost all shock so that your body isn’t subjected to it. And beginners can use training bars until they get the hang of it. Rebounders are wonderful for use in homes, schools, physical therapy, and most other applications. Their small size, ease of use, and fun factor make them ideal for children. Just twenty minutes of use three times a week is all that is required for measurable results.

Denise Nero | Press Release: Nutrition for Kids-Complete guide on proper nutrition for your kids

2013-03-26T17:25:00.001-07:00

Denise Nero | Press Release: Nutrition for Kids-Complete guide on proper nutrition for your kids

What Causes Poor Eating Habits

2010-06-28T08:07:00.001-07:00

- every child has different nutritional needs based on their height, weight, activity level, allergies, etc....

- a poor example will foster poor eating habits

- the food choices availablem if junk food is available more than healthy choices then junk food is going to be eaten more often

- a child's emotions may push them into overeating, this is a pattern you want to be aware of and watch out for early as it can be very problematic if it continues throughout life

- medical conditions and medication may affect a child's appetite inhibiting their ability to learn when they're truly hungry and not hungry, full and not full, etc.

- likewise frequent illnesses can lead to bad habits and repetive choices

- frequent stops at fast food restaurants and drive thrus

- too few meals during the day, in our hurried lifestyles meal skipping becomes more and more normal

- lack of food education when they haven't learned early what foods are good for them and what foods are not good for them and more importantly the cause and effect that can happen from it

- inactivity and poor eating habits seem to go hand in hand particularly in children

- struggles and arguments between parent and child over what to eat and not eat can lead to poor choice making

- anxiety and stress plays a large role in decisions about food even for children

The Political Debate over Childhood Obesity

2010-03-08T09:03:00.000-08:00

Childhood obesity has left out of the doctor’s office and is now in the political arena. The president has a council on fitness. Politicians have sounded the alarm about overweight kids and how they are affecting the health care system. The recent debate on health care included discussion on childhood obesity. Some claim that a random sample of high-school students in the United States can't touch their toes from a standing position as easily as their European counterparts. Some question whether American children can run or do push ups without getting extremely tired.

You will hear many comments about why kids are so heavy today:

• They are not tough enough. It was more difficult for our generation.
• Why do they not walk to school like we did? They all have cars.
• We worked for what we had. Now parents just give everything to children.

Why are we worried about our children’s weight? Are we concerned that there will not be enough men for the military because they cannot meet the standards. There are no statistics that talk about why someone is rejected from military service because of health problems that could have been prevented or if they were rejected because of injuries they sustained in an accident.

So what is fitness to us? Is it our children’s ability to do callisthenics or to win at a football game through excellent play? Do we want our children to have the body seen on magazine covers? Or do we truly want them to be fit and have a good body image? Do you approve of crash dieting so that your son or daughter can have a better body?

Real fitness is actually about more than the body. Real fitness is about being healthy physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. Even if someone can’t run as fast as others or has physical disabilities, that doesn’t mean that they are not physically fit. We have to consider our definition of physical fitness and fitness overall when deciding whether or not someone is fit.

Finally, encourage your children in whatever they are struggling with—physical fitness, social acceptance or if they are just trying to find their place in this world. The more you help your children, the better they will be and the less chance they have of being a statistic debated by Congress.

Author: Denise Nero is the owner of Youth Fitness Equipment . She specializes in giving parents advice in helping children develop a health lifestyle. She can be reached at

7 Reasons Water Should Be Your Drink of Choice

2009-08-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

We know water is good for us, but with soda, juice, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other drinks so readily available, it’s hard to make the decision to choose water. Here are 7 great reasons to drink more water.

* Keeps skin looking great. If your skin looks tired and unhealthy, so do you. Staying properly hydrated removes all the toxins that build up in you skin, and helps prevent it from drying out. If you have the opposite problem; puffy bloated skin, lack of water is likely your problem too. When skin doesn’t get water, it retains what it already had, leaving your skin cells full, puffy, and not too attractive. If you want to look beautiful, you should keep yourself hydrated
* It’s cheaper. Sure, if you buy bottled water, it’s about as expensive as soda, juice, and coffee. However, studies have shown that tap water is usually as clean and safe as bottled water, and costs a whole lot less. If you have a problem with the taste of your tap water, buy a filter pitcher or one that attaches to the faucet. It still costs a lot less.
* A healthy heart. When you’re properly hydrated, your blood is thinner and easier to pump. This means your heart has to do less work and ultimately lasts longer. Studies have shown that people who drink plenty of water have fewer heart problems.
* Toxic build-up. Sure, it sound’s like something from a bathroom cleaner commercial, but you have toxins in your cells too. Some come from the environment and others you produce yourself. Either way, they’re in your body and you need to get rid of them. Just like you use water to flush your toilet; your body uses water to flush out toxins. Getting rid of this waste helps you function more effectively and feel better.
* No sugar added. While fruit juices may contain many nutrients, they also contain a whole lot of sugar. This is especially true for many bottled juices from the grocery store. This sudden burst of sugar triggers your insulin response and makes you tired and sluggish. It also helps to convert that sugar to fats faster. Sugary sodas will produce the same reaction and they usually contain no nutrients at all
* Caffeine is a diuretic. So why water? Why not drink diet soda or coffee all day? These drinks contain caffeine, which actually causes you to lose water throughout the day. You retain some of the water content of the beverages, but not as much as when you drink pure water. You can try decaffeinated beverages, but the best way to use the water you drink is to get it pure and clean, with no chemicals added.
* Energy Boost. Think you can’t get through the day without your morning caffeine boost? Well water can give you energy as well. Your body is made up mostly of water. It loses it throughout the day, so you have to replace it for your body to work efficiently; particularly the heart and digestive tract. As mentioned earlier, water helps your body work better by getting rid of excess waste. The more efficiently your whole body is works, the better you’ll feel and the more energy you’ll have. Maybe enough energy to skip that cup of coffee.
So go ahead, skip the vending machine, go to the faucet, and get yourself a nice, refreshing glass of water.

Cardio Exercise---Is it Okay for Kids?

2008-12-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

As adults we wonder which cardio exercise is better for us. We want to burn off as much fat as possible! Scientists discovered that during intensive exercises, your body burns glycogen, which is a form of stored carbohydrates that are stored in your liver and muscles for energy. During low intensity exercises, your body will burn a lot of fat. These exercises can include running or swimming. But have you tried to get your kid to go running or swimming for the sake of exercise? You were probably met with groans and objections.

Kids need cardio, just like adults. The question is how to get them to indulge in cardio exercise, whether it is high or low intensity. Here are a few simple suggestions:

• Trick them—but don’t lie to them. Encourage them to join you on a fun outdoor walk. Don’t talk about the benefits of walking. Host a swimming party at the local pool and have the children compete to see who can swim the most laps in the least amount of time. These exercises are great for kids.
• Make it fun for them. An Urban Rebounder can be used by anyone. This is great for the rainy days when your kids are full of energy they just have to expend. Made like a small trampoline, this piece of equipment is endorsed by NASA and can be enjoyed while watching television!
• Let them be like mom and dad. If you have gym equipment in your home, allow your children to create their own gym. Using adult equipment may injure little bones and joints. Find home gym equipment for them at www.fitnessandkids.com.
• Get up a sports team. Not all kids are in organized sports. Get up a neighborhood baseball league or tennis team. Team sports will provide great cardio exercise!

Cardio exercise will juice up your metabolism even after you have completed your workout. What this means, is that your body will continue to burn body fat hours after you have stopped. And the more cardio you do, the more energy you and your kids will have.

Four Ways to Take Care of Your Kids' Dental Health

2008-12-14T18:11:00.000-08:00

Next to obesity, dental care for kids is one of the crucial health concerns for parents. According to recent health statistics, at least one-fourth of American kids between the ages of two and five and half of the kids between 12 and 15 have some sort of dental problem. How can you keep your kids’ mouth healthy?

1. A stitch in time saves nine. For the first few days immediately after your baby is born, make sure you wash the mouth of your baby regularly. Use a wet washcloth to clean your baby's gums after every meal. When it is time for the baby's teeth to erupt, use fluoridated toothpaste and a soft brush to brush the teeth of your baby gently.

2. Involve your kids in an oral healthcare program at a very early age. Involving your kids with a pediatric dentist at an early stage will make sure that your kids take good care of their teeth. Starting from your kid's first birthday, you should schedule a regular oral health appointment with the dentist. Make sure that they brush their teeth regularly twice a day, once in the morning and again at evening or night.

3. Teach your kids proper brushing techniques. Tell your kids that it is essential that they regularly spit out the toothpaste after the brushing is over! If they are too young to spit the toothpaste on their own, they should use non-fluoridated toothpaste until they are old enough to spit out the toothpaste all by themselves. In fact, as soon as your kid is two or three years old, you should start teaching them proper brushing techniques. You should also teach them how to floss gently. As your kids become older, they will be able to do it all by themselves!

4. Teach your kids how to eat properly: Teaching your kids good eating habits and advising them to avoid eating junk foods such as chocolates and candies will go a long way in keeping their teeth in good health. Find healthy recipes at Fitness and Kids.

Teaching your kids the value of maintaining good oral health is key. As a parent, insist that your kids follow good oral hygiene rules. Taking these steps will make sure that your kids don't suffer from diseases such as gingivitis or cavities later in life.

Soda Consumption and Teenagers -The Dangers

2008-10-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Soda consumption and Teenagers -Our Teenagers are in Danger Nutritionally!

Teenagers who drink a lot of soda have now been documented As being more prone to bone fractures and osteoporosis than those who do not drink much soda.

A questionnaire was given to 460 girls in the 9th and 10th grades, asking them about their diet and exercise habits, along with any History of fractures. The study's results showed that girls who drank soft drinks were more than THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY to have a bone fracture. And physically active girls who drank Cola were nearly FIVE TIMES MORE LIKELY to have had a bone fracture.

Studies have linked mineral loss before to Cola consumption, but finally someone thought to check out teenager's consumption and how it might affect them.

Between 40% to 60% of peak bone mass is built during the teenage years. Consumption of soft drinks affects both boys and girls. The acidic nature of the phosphoric acid in the drink causes the body to pull calcium out of the bones to buffer the acid.

Many teenagers are very active in sports. Note how much more likely drinkers of the soft drinks were likely to have a bone fracture? Thirty to fifty percent!! Is your teenager in sports and drinking soft drinks? Colas? I offer Nutritional work ups and mineral assays, using hair analysis. Teenagers I see in my practice today, more than ever before, are not eating many fruits and vegetables. These are needed to provide the minerals to build strong bones. To add to this the consumption of soft drinks and these teenagers are setting themselves up for conditions such as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones have become more porous and therefore more fragile and prone to breaking. It is thought to be a problem for older people, however this study shows that teenagers may be the newest group to suffer.

How does your teenager score in soft drink consumption? How does (s)he score in eating plenty of green vegetables? Or other food choices such as yogurt, small amounts of cheese, Beans, Salmon and other things with high calcium/mineral content? And how much water is (s)he drinking? Your teenager may not like water after drinking all the flavored and sugared drinks. However water consumption is vitally important for health and electrical conductivity of the body. As a health practitioner, I suggest one quart of water for every 50 pounds of weight. So if your teenager weighs one hundred pounds, (s)he would need to drink two quarts of water a day. As an added incentive, tell them it will help clear up many bad skin problems.

Educate yourself and your teenager about the use of soft drinks and the consequences. Remember, Prevention is the best measure! Help them to understand the importance of eating their fruits and vegetables and drinking purified water.

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Jeannie Crabtree C.Ac. has worked with both people and pet's
nutrition for the last 20 years. As a Health Practitioner she shares secrets about what to do about health challenges today. Solutions, Tips, Research, Nutrition and products discussed in the Newsletter
Healthy Solutions. To Subscribe visit http://www.health-doc.com

Visit Fitness and Kids for more great articles on kids health and fitness

Active Kids, Healthy Minds! Kick It into Gear with Exercise

2008-10-07T17:47:00.000-07:00

A new video game craze is sweeping the nation, and believe it or not, it has our kids up and moving. The dance revolution video games are rising in popularity as they come out with new Playstation, Xbox, and even Gameboy versions. You may be wondering how this could possibly be, in a nation where childhood obesity is reaching epidemic proportions.

Child experts have written countless reports on the harmful nature of video games. One of their biggest concerns is how video games aid in childhood obesity due to the sedentary nature of this less than active activity. The good news is, this dance revolution is turning our kids on to exercise. Kids are getting active, coming out of their “zombie-like” state to kick it up with dance revolution.

You may be wondering; what is dance revolution, and how exactly does it help with childhood obesity? Dance Revolution is a video game that first gained popularity in arcades. Kids stand on a 3’x3’ dance pad with six squares designating the dance steps. The dance pad is touch sensitive to sense when the player had made a step. The video screen displays a character dancing to the music selected by the player. Arrows indicate where the player is to step on the dance pad.

The game computes each correct dance step and tabulates them to give the player a score. The dance revolution gives kids difficulty level options. Those who have tried the dance revolution say that it requires a lot of practice to really get a hang of the dance moves and the timing. Kids learn rhythm and gain coordination. They are leaving behind their soda pops and candy bars to step to the beat of a new drum. Kids, who otherwise hated exercise and gyms, are finding themselves caught up in the thrill of the dance revolution.

Kids are loving this new video game form of exercise. They see it as a game, but are reaping the benefits of physical fitness. The dance revolution is kicking childhood obesity out the door. Many schools are incorporating the dance revolution into their physical education curriculum and are reporting positive results. Otherwise sedentary, often obese kids are getting involved in the fun.

What starts as just another cool game is helping them to lose weight, gain tone, and even curb appetites. Kids love being able to pick their favorite music and learn “cool” dance steps. Then dance revolution tops it off by making it a game, which meets the kids need for challenge. Kids are finding themselves breaking a sweat, gaining stamina, and “bustin’ a move” instead of just pushing buttons and manipulating a joystick. Arcades are filled with kids wanting to try the dance revolution, unwittingly moving into a healthier lifestyle under the guise of having a great time.

Child experts are also encouraged by the dance revolution because, unlike so many video games, it also stimulates the mind. Dance revolution does not contain violent or otherwise questionable images, and the music and motion stimulate the minds of kids. Kids are taking up this new hobby and dancing in arcades across the country, helping themselves in their own fight against childhood obesity.

Dance revolution has made even greater strides in popularity since it has become available to kids in their homes through Playstation, Xbox, Gameboys, and computers. Kids are practicing their dance moves, honing their skills at home, and then wowing their friends at the arcade. New programs allow kids to create their own dance moves. A video game that sparks creativity and physical activity is a truly great weapon in the battle against childhood obesity.

Want to improve your children's health while creating a better future for them?

Here's where to go for information, equipment, activities...Kids health and Fitness equipment, Dance revolution and more! http://www.fitnessandkids.com

Help Your Kids Fall Into Exercise

2008-09-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

Now that school has been back in session for a few weeks, children are settling back into their routine of homework and extra curricular activities. Unless your kids are active in sports, they may be missing out on a key element of good health—exercise. Trying to get your child off the couch after a stressful (for them!) day at school or on the weekend is a challenge. And if your kids are coming home alone because you work, you may not be able to make sure they are doing more than watching videos or playing video games.

Here’s a hint: If kids don’t think of it as exercise and they think it is fun, they will do it. If you give them some incentive, they may even be excited about the activity.

Getting homework done is important, but let your children to bypass it for a few hours after they first get home. Encourage them to do some sort of activity, even if it is just playing a game of freeze tag in the backyard. You can set a later time for homework.
Have a fun activity at home. Your children are not likely to jump on your treadmill. They will enjoy jumping on a Rebounder, a mini trampoline that can fit in almost any room of the house or in the backyard. This is an activity that can be done rain or shine!
Most kids enjoy video games and will choose to play the latest super space competition instead of going outdoors. Why not give them a game that is fun, competitive and is a great workout? Dance Dance Revolution has the feel of a video game, but kids will burn calories while keeping up with the steps. They will not even know they are exercising!

Do an activity with them. Take an afternoon bike ride in the neighborhood. Head to the tennis courts for a challenging match with your children. Take a stroll after dinner.

If your kids are active in sports, you have other concerns. In recent years, some children and teens have died during a sports activity. If your child is playing sports, you need to make sure they are physically healthy enough. Most sports require an exam before the child is cleared to play.

Watch one of the practice sessions if you have concerns your children are being pushed too hard. Even though school sports are competitive, they children are supposed to enjoy them! If the sport seems more fierce than fun, consider withdrawing your child. Many local recreation department offer sports programs.

For more great articles like this visit Fitness and kids

Fight Childhood Obesity

2008-04-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

Starting your Child on an Exercise Program

2008-04-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

In today’s world, it would seem that more and more people tend to put exercise on the backburner in favor of more fast paced results to our desires. In recent years, there have been a significant number of diet pills claiming the “true” scientific way to lose weight and gain muscle definition. Unfortunately, it would seem that this kind of mentality has been passed on to our kids, and that they are finding less motivation to exercise.
Exercise programs for kids are hugely important. America holds the not so illustrious title of the fattest nation in the world and this moment, our kids are poised to inherit that title. That is something that all parents would not find as a particularly comforting thought.
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The Benefits of Rebounding

2008-03-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

If you’ve ever seen a child on a trampoline, you know how many hours of fun they can have on them. As a matter of fact, it’s often quite a feat tearing him or her away from it. There’s just something about bouncing around that is almost addictive. Little do kids realize what great exercise they’re getting.

Trampolines are available in many different sizes. There are large ones that will hold several people, smaller ones for two or three, and the tiny ones that one person can jump in place on. But there is also a type of trampoline called a rebounder, which can provide great exercise opportunities.

A rebounder is similar in size to a one-person mini-trampoline, but is designed specifically for maximum benefit when exercising. It is ultra-strong, and used properly is easy on joints while providing an excellent physical workout. Rebounding burns fat, builds core strength, and can greatly improve your balance and coordination. Few other exercises offer all of these benefits in such an appealing way.

Rebounders are great for kids because they are fun. Even children who are not inclined to participate in sports or other physical activities often enjoy jumping. So even the most stubborn video game lover will quite possibly use a rebounder without any persuasion.

Another great thing about rebounders is their compact size. They do not take up nearly as much space as most exercise equipment, and some even fold up for easy storage. Unlike most trampolines, they can be used indoors. That means that worries about the weather do not have to have a negative impact on exercise time.

Perhaps one of the most important advantages of rebounding is its safety. The rebounder’s springs absorb almost all shock so that your body isn’t subjected to it. And beginners can use training bars until they get the hang of it.

Rebounders are wonderful for use in homes, schools, physical therapy, and most other applications. Their small size, ease of use, and fun factor make them ideal for children. Just twenty minutes of use three times a week is all that is required for measurable results.
Fun Fun Fun-Rebounding great exercise of kids and adults
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8 Winning Reasons To Get Your Child Involved in Golf.

2007-08-07T04:47:00.000-07:00

8 Winning Reasons To Get Your Child Involved in Golf
Golf, isn’t just for the retirees in plaid pants anymore.
It’s cool. Don’t believe it? Just ask Michael Jordan or NBA superstar Jason Kidd, Lance Armstrong, Charles Barkley, Tiki Barber, Jerome Bettis, Brandi Chastain, Bode Miller, the list goes on and on. Not to mention, Tiger Woods is the epitome of cool.
Besides being ultra cool, golf is a fantastic sport that teaches your child valuable life lessons and skills necessary for successful adulthood.
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Exercise Equals Fun

2006-08-03T06:24:00.000-07:00

Getting America’s children to exercise has never been more difficult as the new boob-tube generation slouches in front of TVs, or sits for hours, mesmerized behind shoot-out video and computer games.

However, it is possible to foster a regular exercise pattern for children from an early age, with simple activities that are more “fun” than “exercise

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Family Fitness

2006-06-10T17:41:00.000-07:00

Family Fitness

Fit families are healthy families who have an active lifestyle. Frequently, they enjoy the things they do together, and the things they do together foster better communication and closer relationships than watching TV does.

Family fitness takes some parental commitment, leadership, and imagination, and you may have to listen to a lot of grousing and whining to start with, but the entire family will benefit as a result. Five factors that affect your family fitness plan are cost, convenience, family-friendly environment, fun, and success.
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