The Importance of Youth and Exercise

It is critical that a child is allowed to play for at least 30 minutes a day either before school, at recess or while at home. Those who learn how to play and run around on a regular basis at a young age will carry those habits into adulthood. What are some ways that a child can get the physical activity that he or she needs?

The Pool Is a Great Place to Workout

Your child doesn't have to be a gifted athlete to get the exercise that he or she needs to stay fit at a young age. Michael Phelps first started swimming at the age of 7, and he was so scared that he just floated on his back instead of actually putting his head under the water. As we all know, he went on to become one of the best swimmers in the world and the most decorated athlete at the Olympic games. Therefore, you should aim to get your child in the water no matter how well he or she can actually swim or whether you think your son or daughter is destined for greatness.

Golf Is a Surprisingly Intense Sport

Walking a full 18 holes while carrying your golf clubs can burn several hundred calories and provide all of your muscles with constant work throughout the day. What makes golf even better is that it is an appropriate activity for children and adults of all ages. Children can also relate to seeing these pro players on television since they are built like the average man. The average PGA golfer comes in at 5’11” and 170 pounds while the ave average NBA player is 6’7”, 222 bounds. While Tiger Woods didn't turn pro until the age of 20, he started playing at the age of 2. Getting your child started is as easy as buying some miniature clubs and some plastic balls that are safe for use in the yard.

Most Youth Sports All Kids to Start Playing at Age 4 or 5

Youth soccer programs are available to kids who are just going into preschool or kindergarten. Whether your child likes soccer, baseball or football, there is a program that can teach them the skills necessary to play the game effectively while also getting a chance to run around with their friends.

In fact, it may be a good idea to let your child play as many different sports as possible to find their niche. Even if your child isn't good enough to play professionally, learning how to play a sport can teach life skills as well as potentially earn your son or daughter a college scholarship.

Your child should learn what it means to have fun and socialize within their peer group as soon as possible. For some, it may mean starting to play a sport as soon as they are able to walk. Regardless of the activity that a child decides to take up, it should provide physical and mental stimulation as well as help his or her long-term mental and physical development.

Thank you Cliff Howard for this highly interesting and informative article. You can read more of Cliff's writing at: USS Sports Machine.