November 2000

Physical Activity: Key to Obesity Prevention

Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight are both needed for good health, but they benefit health in different ways. Children, teens, adults and the elderly - all can improve their health and well being and have fun by including moderate amounts of physical activity in their daily lives. Physical activity involves moving the body. A moderate physical activity is any activiy that requires about as much energy as walking 2 miles in 30 minutes.

Help children be physically active

Children should be accumulating at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily. Adults should aim for 30 minutes.

• Set a good example. For example, arrange active family events in which everyone takes part. A brisk walk on an autumn day, a family swim outing (indoor during the winter), a cross country ski day.
• Encourage your children to be physically active at home, at school, and with friends by jumping rope, playing tag, riding a bike.
• Limit television watching, computer games and other inactive forms of play by alternating with periods of physical activity.

Physical Activities for Chidren and Teens

Aim for at least 60 minutes total per day:

• Play tag
• Jump rope
• Walk, wheel, skip or run
• Ride a bicycle or tricycle
• Take part in physical education activity classes during school
• Join afterschool or community physical activity programs
• Play actively during school recess
• Roller skate or in-line skate
• Be spontaneaoulsy active
• Dance

Activity Ideas

Healthy Hopscotch
Players play hopscotch and name foods from the Food Guide Pyramid food groups.

Materials Needed:

• Chalk
• Beenbags, hopscotch markers or small flat rocks

Preparation:
Draw a hopscotch outline and write in the different food groups.

To Play:
A player throws the beanbag or hopscotch marker or small falt rock onto the first square. Before the player hops they must name a food from that food group. The player continues from square to square, naming food from the indicated food groups, until the course is completed. If an incorrect answer is given the player gets a second chance to name a food.

Spaghetti Limbo

Materials Needed:

• Broom handle
• 2 chairs

Preparation:
Set up broom handle supported by the chairs

To Play:
Player must pass underneath the broom handle. May want to add the limbo music to increase the excitement.

For questions about this information, contact Amy J. Kolano (608) 266-7124

Last updated on 2/25/2008 11:52:52 AM