What is physical activity and sports? Let’s start with a clear definition. According to Mandelbaum (2004):
Physical Activity: Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in an expenditure of energy.
Sport: Sport is an activity requiring physical ability, physical fitness, or technique and strategy, which usually—but not always—involves competition between two or more people.
The Importance of Building a Physically Active Lifestyle
A physically active lifestyle that carries forward from childhood to adulthood is a goal every parent should strive for. However, this goal has been elusive. Research by Pratt, Macera, and Blanton (1999) shows that physical activity levels decrease as children progress through their school years. But all hope is not lost. There’s growing evidence that making physical activity fun increases the likelihood of children maintaining a lifelong commitment to it.
Which Is Better for My Child: Sports or Physical Activity?
Physical activity should take precedence as a lifelong habit in children and adolescents (Kohl III & Hobbs, 1998). Activities that are simple, engaging, and action-packed tend to appeal more to children. These activities should provide ample opportunities for social interaction and personal involvement. Unlike sports, which often involve complex rules, authority figures, and high levels of physical exertion, physical activities can better meet children’s needs for fun and intrinsic motivation.
Sports, while valuable in their own right, should generally be introduced after a child has developed a positive relationship with physical activity. Barrett (2001) points out that sports often emphasize performance and competition, which can dampen intrinsic motivation in children. In contrast, physical activities focus on enjoyment and participation, offering a stronger foundation for lifelong habits.
What Makes a Suitable Physical Activity?
For children to enjoy and stick with physical activity, it must be fun, promote skill development, and involve exercise. When these elements are present, a child’s social, emotional, and physical needs are met, encouraging them to return to the activity repeatedly. Barrett (2001) highlights that such activities inspire motivation from within the child rather than relying on external rewards or pressure.
Coakley (2004) further emphasizes that children’s physical activities should prioritize pleasure and participation over performance. By shifting the focus away from competition, children are more likely to stay engaged and derive satisfaction from their efforts. Moreover, interventions that boost a child’s self-belief, social support, and sense of fun can significantly enhance their willingness to participate in physical activity (Weiss, 1993).
The Role of Parents in Encouraging Physical Activity
Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children's physical activity habits. Stucky-Ropp and DiLorenzo (1993) note that parental influence is especially strong through modeling and reinforcement. For example, when parents actively participate in physical activities and express enjoyment, they set a powerful example for their children.
Verbal encouragement and nonverbal cues, such as enthusiasm and participation, further reinforce a child’s interest in staying active. Parents who demonstrate a positive attitude toward physical activity inspire their children to adopt similar behaviors. As Weiss (2000) states, parental involvement is one of the most effective ways to instill a lasting love of movement and exercise in children.
Creating a Positive Environment for Physical Activity
To ensure that children develop a lifelong commitment to physical activity, it’s essential to create an environment that emphasizes enjoyment and inclusivity. Here are a few strategies to foster a love for movement in your children:
1. Make It Fun: Activities should be engaging and enjoyable, allowing children to explore and express themselves freely. Games, playful challenges, and group activities work particularly well.
2. Focus on Participation: Encourage your child to try new activities without worrying about winning or being the best. This helps them develop confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
3. Lead by Example: Show your child that physical activity is a regular and rewarding part of your life. Whether it’s a morning jog, a family hike, or a backyard game, your enthusiasm will be contagious.
4. Provide Support: Celebrate your child’s efforts and progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts self-esteem and motivation.
Building a Foundation for Lifelong Health
Encouraging children to embrace physical activity is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give. It lays the groundwork for a lifetime of health, happiness, and vitality. By focusing on fun, participation, and positive reinforcement, parents can help their children develop habits that will serve them well into adulthood.
So the next time you’re lacing up your sneakers, invite your kids to join you. Say, “Let’s go together!” and turn exercise into a family affair. Together, you can build a legacy of wellness that will last for generations.
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