Now that the kids are back in school and with fall and winter around the corner, the days are getting cooler and the nights darker. That often means activity levels start to drop. Hopefully, your child(ren) or grandchild(ren) are involved in different sports to help keep them physically active. These days, kids and teens tend to be far more sedentary than previous generations, largely due to technology—video games, phones, and endless scrolling. Texting replaces real conversations, and online gaming takes the place of live, face-to-face interaction.
Unfortunately, this lack of movement increases the risk of developing chronic diseases far too early, even leading to shortened lifespans. Study after study shows overwhelming evidence that physical activity not only improves health but also prevents chronic disease.
In fact, one Chief Medical Officer noted ‘the benefits of regular physical activity on health, longevity, and well-being easily surpass the effectiveness of any drug or medical treatment.’
– Bolded on purpose—let that sink in.
It is crucial that we communicate to our kids and grandkids that physical activity is of the utmost importance to their health and longevity. While this can be a difficult message to instil, if we ingrain it when they are young, it can become a natural habit—just like brushing their teeth or washing their hands—something they simply do.
Here are a few tips on how to talk to them while they’re still willing to listen and take your advice:
1. Make it fun. Share cool facts like: “Humans have been exercising and competing in sports for thousands of years. The first Olympics were held over 2,700 years ago, and some of the same events—like running, long jump, javelin, and discus—are still part of the Olympics today.”
2. Explain that all movement counts. Exercise isn’t only about organized sports. Playground games, walking to school, or even helping around the house all count (though they may not like the last one).
If they ask questions like, “Why do I need to exercise?”—that’s a great sign. It means they’re interested. Keep your answers simple and to the point:
1. Exercise keeps your heart, bones, and muscles strong.
2. Exercise helps you concentrate better at school.
3. Exercise makes you feel good by creating “happy chemicals” in your brain.
4. Exercise gives you more energy—without it, you can feel sluggish and tired, even if you haven’t used your muscles.
5. Exercise now to set yourself up for being a healthy adult.
Finally, parents and grandparents—lead by example. It’s never too late to take charge of your health: to build strength, improve fitness, and prevent or manage chronic disease. By staying active, you can maintain your well-being and slow down the natural decline of aging—ensuring it doesn’t happen sooner than it should. Remember, your kids and grandkids are watching. You can either be the example of healthy living…or the cautionary tale of what happens when you don’t move
Mikkie Nettles-Pollon, Certified Personal Trainer/Holistic & Sports Nutritionist
Not sure where to begin, contact me at info@deemhealth.ca
250-541 -0411.
www.deamhealth.ca
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