Your Body Was Made to Move!
Your body was designed to move! Your legs are built for running and jumping. Your arms are made for climbing and throwing. Your heart is a muscle that gets stronger when you exercise. When you sit still for too long, your body actually starts to feel uncomfortable because it WANTS to move!
Exercise means any activity that gets your body moving. It could be running, dancing, swimming, riding a bike, playing tag, or even doing chores around the house. Anything that makes your heart beat faster and your body warm up is exercise.
Doctors say kids should be active for at least 60 minutes (one hour) every day. That sounds like a lot, but it does not have to be all at once! Walking to school (15 minutes), recess (20 minutes), and playing outside after school (25 minutes) adds up to 60 minutes without even trying!
Exercise is not punishment or something boring. It is one of the most fun things you can do! Playing on a playground, dancing to music, and riding your bike with friends are all exercise. If you are having fun and moving your body, you are exercising!