Fitness and Kids

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.

Why Women need to Weight Train

2008-11-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Again and again research has shown women who weight train regularily enjoy many health benefits. Although some women still fear that weight traning will make them big and bulky. However womens 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 bonem density so strenth training is great against Osteoporosis.

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

6.Weight training improves your choleserol and blood pressure.

7. If you are an athelete or play a sport strenth 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 Acheiving your goals. So go ahead ladies give weight training a try, you will love it!

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Author: Denise Nero-owner of Fitnessandkids.com
Source: Online-health-fitness.com
http://www.online-health-fitness.com

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

Learn to Publish your own videos quickly and easily

2008-08-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

Start creating your own videos like this one quickly and easily.

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.
Read More....

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
article owned by www.fitnessandkids.com

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.
Read more

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

Read more

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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Helping Your Overweight Child

2006-05-05T06:12:00.000-07:00

Helping Your Overweight Child

Be Supportive.
One of the most important things you can do to help overweight children is to let them know that they are OK whatever their weight. Children's feelings about themselves often are based on their parents' feelings about them. If you accept your children at any weight, they will be more likely to accept and feel good about themselves.

It is also important to talk to your children about weight, allowing them to share their concerns with you. Your child probably knows better than anyone else that he or she has a weight problem. For this reason, overweight children need support, acceptance, and encouragement from their parents.

Focus on the family.

Parents should try not to set children apart because of their weight, but focus on gradually changing their family's physical activity and eating habits. Family involvement helps to teach everyone healthful habits and does not single out the overweight child.

Increase your family's physical activity.

Regular physical activity, combined with healthy eating habits, is the most efficient and healthful way to control your weight. It is also an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Some simple ways to increase your family's physical activity include the following:

Be a role model for your children. If your children see that you are physically active and have fun, they are more likely to be active and stay active for the rest of their lives.

Plan family activities that provide everyone with exercise and enjoyment, like walking, dancing, biking, or swimming. For example, schedule a walk with your family after dinner instead of watching TV. Make sure that you plan activities that can be done in a safe environment.

Be sensitive to your child's needs. Overweight children may feel uncomfortable about participating in certain activities. It is important to help your child find physical activities that they enjoy and that aren't embarrassing or too difficult.

Reduce the amount of time you and your family spend in sedentary activities, such as watching TV or spending time on the computer.

Become more active throughout your day and encourage your family to do so as well. For example, walk up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, or do some activity during a work or school break-get up and stretch or walk around.
The point is not to make physical activity an unwelcome chore, but to make the most of the opportunities you and your family have to be active.

Teach your family healthy eating habits.

Teaching healthy eating practices early will help children approach eating with the right attitude -- that food should be enjoyed and is necessary for growth, development, and for energy to keep the body running.

The best way to begin is to learn more about children's nutritional needs by reading or talking with a health professional and then to offer them some healthy options, allowing your children to choose what and how much they eat.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Dance Dance revolution is a great fun way to motivate your kids to exercise with dance! They will not realize they are exercising :)

How Dance Dance revolution is getting kids off the couch

2006-04-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

How Dance Dance Revolution is getting kids off the couch
Dance Dance revolution is the latest dance craze that is a fun and addictive way to lose weight and get into shape.

Are you concerned about the lack of exercise your child is getting?
Would you like to see them up and moving instead of sitting around so much?

Dance Dance revolution is the latest dance craze that is a fun and addictive way to help your child get get up and move without realizes they are even exercising.

Our kids health and fitness is more important today than ever before since video games, TV and computers are turning our kids into couch potatoes.
This new dance craze called Dance Dance revolution is a video game played on a gaming system but it is not your typical video game. This fun and exciting Dance pad is hooked up to any play station or Xbox then the player chooses one of their favorite songs from the DDR video game.
Read more

Fitness and Kids

2006-04-01T16:20:00.000-08:00

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?

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2006-03-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

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fitness and kids

2006-01-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog. I would like to introduce everyone to www.fitnessandkids.com
Please stop by there and take a look at what we offer.