Forever Fit or Obese

 In this age of cultural obesity, with optional P.E., and more stagnant entertainment than ever, it is increasingly up to the parents to instill a love for activity and exercise in their children.  We can do this by joining our children in fun activities, enrolling them in team sports, and encouraging skill acquisition in sport lessons.  We must begin to teach an active lifestyle while our children are young.
Several fun family activities include bike riding, basketball, ice skating, and (especially during summer months, but really all year long,) swimming.  Southern California is a mecca for water sports, with a pool in many backyards.  There are many great water activities for families, including water skiing, body surfing, attending water parks, and good ‘ol backyard pool barbeques.
Recent studies show that exercise improves body image, for both the fit and those less fit.  The psychological benefits kick in before the physical results, and last throughout the span of regular exercise.  Just by exercising, people have a more favorable view of their bodies.  Exercise also stimulates the creation of new brain cells and enhances mood.  Another new study confirms that exercise is the leading factor in preparing the brain to cope with stress in a calm manner.  It’s a no brainer!  So get your children swimming; it boosts their self image, confidence, mood, intelligence and ability to handle stress!
There are benefits to many instructed sports, but enrolling in swim lessons not only gives your children a skill that will be used throughout their lives, it is one of the highest calorie burners.  It’s also way more fun!  Although many children can already “swim,” as a child learns the finer points of swimming during lessons, swimming becomes much easier, and s/he is more likely to enjoy it and repeat the activity.  Furthermore, it is a lifesaving skill for toddlers and young children, and can improve quality of life for a lifetime.
For more information on swimming or for a free 25-minute private swim lesson, contact Academy Swim Club at 661-702-8585, or go to www.Swim4Life.com.