It is an unfortunate fact that childhood obesity rates have quadrupled within the last 30 years. While our modern diet definitely plays a role in this epidemic, a sharp decline in exercising is another major problem. That is why parents should do everything in their power to find active activities that their children will enjoy for years to come. Helping them become passionate about these activities at a young age will reduce their risk of many weight-related medical issues later on in life.

Dancing

Dancing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you are considering athletic activities for your child, but this pastime has exploded in popularity in recent years. Dance studios geared toward children can now be found in most major cities, and this activity can provide your child with a wide variety of mental and physical benefits.

Not only will it help them burn off energy and improve their cardiovascular health, but it will also teach them coordination. As an added bonus, your children can continue to learn new dances until they find a style they enjoy. Those who stick to their dance lessons might even be able to earn a full or partial scholarship once they begin applying to colleges.

Rock Climbing

The vast majority of rock climbing takes place in very safe environments where climbers are protected by many different types of gear. For children who are just learning this activity, a rock climbing gym with experienced trainers will be a great place to start. During the first few months, children generally learn the basics such as various grips, plotting routes, and how to safely belay.

Much like dancing, there are many different types of rock climbing to choose from such as bouldering and speed climbs. This activity is physically challenging as well as mentally challenging, and your child will need to think multiple steps in ahead when they begin to tackle more complicated routes.

Swimming

Those who do not grow up around lakes, swimming pools, or other bodies of water often think of swimming as a foreign concept. What those people might not realize is that most children can actually learn the basics of swimming well before they walk. When they are taught by an experienced instructor, they might be able to learn how to swim within just a few hours. They can then master more difficult techniques such as diving into deeper water or treading water without the use of their hands.

Swimming is an extremely healthy pastime, and it challenges practically every key muscle group in the body. That is why so many experienced athletes use swimming as a way to strengthen their stabilizer muscles without putting pressure on their joints. Your kids can also find out cool facts like, “Why does skin wrinkle in water?”

Snowboarding

After being added to the Olympics, snowboarding quickly became one of the most popular winter sports in the world. The biggest drawback of snowboarding is the fact that relatively few people have easy access to slopes with fresh powder. That being said, families who live in the right environment should consider introducing their kids to snowboarding as soon as possible.

Modern safety gear is remarkably effective, and most resorts have at least a few runs for beginners and younger children. This activity is a great workout for all of the key muscles running up and down the body.

Children often have to try out quite a few sports until they find something they enjoy. They might also benefit from alternating their physical activities so that they do not become bored with a single sport or hobby. Over the years, these pastimes could help them avoid diabetes, sleep apnea, insomnia, gallstones, high blood pressure, and many other serious health conditions that can go hand-in-hand with childhood obesity.