5 workout options for kids who aren’t into traditional sports

Childhood obesity in the United States is a very real issue; approximately 1 out of every 3 children is overweight or obese. And while part of the solution to the problem is encouraging kids to be more active, not all children have a love of traditional sports.

SEE ALSO: TV in kids’ bedrooms doubles obesity risk

So what do you do when your son shows no interest in football, basketball, or soccer, and you’re daughter just isn’t feeling field hockey, track, or softball? It’s time to get creative; it’s time to look at the alternative options.

5 workout options for kids who aren’t into traditional sports

First, children who are happy in an activity are more likely to try their best and participate. This means that the choice of an alternative to traditional sports should be a joint decision. Make sure your son or daughter wants to learn how to snowboard before you sign up for expensive classes.

That doesn’t mean, however, that you should allow your children to get out of doing something just because they’d rather sit an play video games. Come up with a list of options and then go through those options together.

• Horseback riding: You may not think of horseback riding as a workout, but if you’ve ever held yourself in a saddle while traveling at full gallop, you’ll know that it takes a strong core and powerful legs to maintain position. What’s more, a good riding instructor will each children about all the aspects of horse care which includes grooming and stable management. Nothing builds muscles like taking out wheelbarrows of manure.
• Nature club: Children who don’t have a set activity they want to participate in are prime candidates for a nature club. These groups get children outside and often incorporate hiking as well as other outdoor activities in an atmosphere of learning. Nature clubs are ideal for children who don’t want to be competitive but enjoy being outside.
• Martial arts: Some parents shy away from martial arts when they are looking for an activity for children, but martial arts places a heavy emphasis on respect and discipline as well as physical conditioning. In martial arts, it isn’t about fighting, it is about taking the mind and body as far as they can go. Nowadays, most martial arts facilities also have anti-bullying programs. These are great opportunities to build a child’s confidence and teach them coping skills.
• Archery: Archery is a full-body activity great for children who don’t want to be in groups. Archery can be done alone, and as long as you have the proper equipment and access to instructional videos, becoming proficient at it only takes practice. Children can chose to eventually become competitive or even try their hand at hunting if they find they truly love the sport.
• Canoeing: Boating in a paddle boat takes a lot of upper body and core endurance and strength. Not all children have access to a lake or stream to canoe on, but those who do should consider this as a great way to get out and be active.

Wait, all these activities are outside. What happens when it rains?

It’s true that a little inclement weather can halt a child’s activities, but this is when it becomes the parent’s responsibility to step up to the plate. There are plenty of ways to help a child be active indoors–play hide and seek, play Wii, go to the mall and walk around, put on some music and dance. Don’t let sports become an excuse not to engage your children. Get them active, not matter what it takes.

SEE ALSO: Fast food not to blame for childhood obesity, say experts