Exercise
Moving your body is a critical element in health management. Movement and exertion helps everyone feel healthier, manage weight, control stress and Increase strength, coordination, and self-esteem. Experts recommend that both children and adults get at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity daily.

A family exercise program is a great way to get everyone together for “quality” time without the usual distractions and challenges. You don’t need to invest in health club memberships to improve your fitness.

Consider taking a family walk after dinner each evening or create your own Olympic decathlon by designing a series of short duration activities that everyone can participate in. The key is design fun activities that will elevate the heart rate.

Ready Set Go
Aerobic exercise is perfect for those who are independent and like variety. Some possibilities include: running, in-line skating, cycling, swimming, power- or race-walking, tennis, full-court basketball, aerobic dancing, kick-boxing, Tae Bo, hockey, soccer, rowing, elliptical trainer, cross-country skiing, jumping rope, racquetball, handball, ice-skating, and trampoline. The American Heart Association suggests that teens raise their heart rates for 60 minutes without stopping three or more times a week. Reassure your teen that aerobic exercise, when done correctly, shouldn't resemble running laps in gym class when many kids feel like their lungs are ready to burst and their legs are on fire. This isn't about “no pain, no gain,” but choosing fun physical activities that make you sweat and breathe a little harder.