If you want your kids to be physically active, it’s essential for you to lead by example. A recent study from Vanderbilt University, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, suggests that preschool-aged children tend to be more active when their parents engage in physical activity. Researchers had families wear movement monitors for 12 hours, which helped them discover a clear link between the activity levels of parents and their young children.
The findings revealed that for every 40 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity a parent undertook, their preschooler was likely to match that level of activity. The researchers noted, “The positive aspect is that boosting physical activity benefits parents’ health while also instilling these habits in their children. This dual impact can lead to better health for the entire family. Establishing these routines early on can foster lifelong healthy habits.”
For many parents, this revelation might seem like common sense. However, for those who prefer lounging on the couch, it serves as a not-so-gentle reminder to get moving. Every minute spent in sedentary behavior by a parent correlates with an increase of 0.10 minutes in a child’s sedentary habits. Conversely, every minute of light physical activity by a parent leads to a 0.06-minute increase in their child’s activity. The conclusion? Encouraging parents to be active can significantly influence their children’s physical habits.
For parents of preschoolers, the concept of children mimicking their movements is hardly surprising. These little ones shadow you everywhere—from the grocery store to the fridge, and even into the bathroom. They follow you around with unwavering enthusiasm, which makes it clear that they are eager to imitate your actions. So, while this research might seem obvious, it underscores an important point: the more parents move, the more active their children become.
Physical activity is crucial in preventing childhood obesity and enhancing cardiovascular health. However, as a busy parent, I can empathize with the struggle to stay active. Between chaotic schedules and the demands of parenting, it’s all too easy to slip into a sedentary routine. I’ve been married for over a decade and juggling three kids, and sometimes I dream of a peaceful evening with just me, a pizza, and the TV.
Despite my active lifestyle—I enjoy hitting the gym and cycling during the summer—I often find myself collapsing onto the couch once I’m home. I help out with chores, but I often don’t view my movements around the house as exercise; they feel more like chores that need to be done before bedtime rolls around.
This study has prompted me to reconsider how I approach physical activity. While I’ve always seen exercise as a personal endeavor, it’s clear that I need to integrate it into family time. The truth of parenting is that it’s no longer just about you. Everything revolves around your kids. This doesn’t mean neglecting self-care or indulging in a quiet moment with your favorite snacks when possible. But it does mean that your children are observing your habits and routines. If you want them to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle, you must guide them toward it.
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Summary
The study from Vanderbilt University highlights the importance of parental physical activity in promoting active lifestyles in children. Parents who engage in exercise not only improve their own health but also influence their children to adopt similar habits. As the adage goes, children learn what they live—so getting up from the couch can make a world of difference for your family’s health.