The Top Ten Fun Fitness Summer Activities for Kids

Summer is here and children need to stay active, healthy, and busy during their break from school. Parents need to encourage their children to warm up properly and stretch before each activity and teach them never to play through any type of pain or make winning the reason for playing any sport. Let them choose the activity and keep the focus on having fun. To keep kids moving, the American Council on Exercise suggests ten, fun fitness summer activities.

1. Soccer: Soccer is a highly active game involving both agility and teamwork. Players should be geared up in appropriate protective equipment such as shin guards.

2. Martial Arts: With a variety of forms to choose from, martial arts are a great way to get kids involved in a sport that involves strength, coordination, and mental discipline.

3. Bike Riding: A fun activity for the whole family!

4. Swimming: Nothing beats splashing around a pool with friends, and swimming offers the benefits of a full-body workout for both young and old.

5. Basketball: Whether it’s a game of HORSE, a game of one on one, or a full-court competition, basketball is ideal for developing hand/eye coordination and teamwork.

6. Obstacle Courses: Challenge kids to use a variety of different skills by setting up an obstacle course at the park using playground equipment or other items, such as jump ropes, balls, and cones.

7. Dancing: No matter what kind of dancing your children enjoy, encourage them to move freely and be creative!

8. Board Sports: Kids love surfing and skateboarding, just make sure they wear helmets and other protective gear.

9. Jumping Rope: Whether alone or in a group, jumping rope challenges both coordination and stamina.

10. Inline Skating: Roll on! Just make sure helmets are worn properly.

Source: American Council on Exercise Fit Facts, 2002.