Fit Kids Equal Confident Kids

As a personal trainer, I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with many students and student athletes over the years. It has always been my experience that when their programs come to an end, the most positive outcome is the higher level of self-confidence that they achieve. Certainly they elevate their fitness levels, hone their skills in their specific sport, and increase strength, stamina and speed, but more importantly, they become more confident in themselves. Confidence is an important key to success in sports performance and life in general.

Unfortunately, children are becoming more sedentary every year. By the time they reach high school, 63 percent are no longer physically active. With diversions such as television, video games, and personal computers, compounded by too much junk and fast foods, childhood obesity has more than tripled over the last 30 years. This leads to a low level of self-confidence.

Physically active kids have fewer chronic health problems and are better able to handle the demands of their busy daily schedules. They achieve positive results in physical-performance tests, have a stronger self-image, they sleep better, stay alert during the day and maintain a healthy weight. All of these factors contribute to building self-confidence. Most importantly, an active child is more likely to become a fit adult.

I strongly believe that as parents, it is our responsibility to encourage and motivate our children to be more physically active. If you want an active child, be active yourself. It is a powerful stimulus for any child if their mom and dad exercise. Don’t just tell them that exercise is fun; show them.

If you want your child to make healthy food choices, make healthy choices yourself. Try to limit high-calorie, sugary snacks and soda. Set a good example by eating fruits, vegetables and low-fat foods. Exercise and nutrition will always go hand in hand.

Here are a few of my suggestions on motivating your kids to exercise:

• Include them in physical household chores like gardening or washing the car.

• Plan outings and activities such as; walking the dog, canoeing or even a trip to the mall.

• Check to see if your local fitness center offers kids’ programs.

• Create a reward system and recognize their efforts.

• Promote participation in organized sports and emphasize the positive aspects such as improved health, teamwork, and self-esteem.

• Include their friends in your fitness activities – this will appeal to their need for entertainment.

Whether your child is a student or a student athlete, when they begin to see the results of regular exercise, they will begin to feel better about themselves. When they feel better about themselves, they will automatically become more confident and the end result will be healthy, happy teens and adults. It’s up to you. Think about it… promoting fitness just may create a ripple effect on future generations and may also contribute to the overall enhancement of public health. •

Lisa Troyer has been in the fitness industry for more than 14 years, and is owner of Fitness Fanatics in the Great Southern Shopping Center. She currently holds four certifications, including IFPA, AFAA, CCAC and Mad Dogg Athletics. You may reach her at 412-220-4190 or at fitnessfanatics@msn.com.