There’s not much time left before school starts! With these last few summer days make sure to spend time having fun. 🙂
It’s been a little while since we’ve talked about physical activity. Do you remember how time is recommended to spend doing physical activity each day? It’s recommended that kids are physically active for 60 minutes/day. In other words, spend 60 minutes doing something fun that involves moving your body.
During the hot summer weather the first thing that comes to mind is going for a swim! Swimming can be a lot of fun and it’s also a great way to exercise. Some people will swim laps in a pool to exercise but just playing around in the water is good too.
Some of the health benefits for swimming include:
Less stress on joints than other exercises- Improved muscular strength and endurance
- Healthy heart and lungs
- Since its a full body exercise, lots of muscles are strengthened
- Improves coordination and balance
- Relaxation
- Good cool down on hot days
Don’t have access to a pool? No problem! There are lots of places to make a splash – lakes, rivers, marinas, public water play areas, or your backyard! Sometimes running through the sprinklers or playing jump rope with the hose is the best way to spend an afternoon.
Make sure that you stay safe while playing in the water. Follow the guidelines below so there are no problems while you’re having fun in the water:
- Have a swimming buddy
- Don’t go into deep water without something to help you float
- Make sure there’s a lifeguard or responsible adult nearby before swimming
- Follow pool rools
- Watch out for rocks at lakes or beaches
- Wear suncreen
- Drink water!
- Don’t swim during stormy weather
Its easy to stay inside with the air conditioning but try some outdoor water activities this weekend! I promise you’ll have a good time, plus, what better way to get your body moving??
Make a splash, have fun, and stay safe!
Information came from betterhealth.vic.gov.au and kidshealth.org