Worried that your kids are coach potatoes in the making, but don't to splash out of the latest exercise gismos, from the Nintendo Wii to the new Leapfrog Leapband? Here are some good old fashioned toys most kids will love - especially if you play with them too! Grab a few of the following fun toys that encourage kids to exercise, and keeping your children physically fit will never be a problem.
Jump rope / skipping rope
A simple length of rope is all that is needed for your child to benefit from the cardio and total body physical rewards that a skipping rope delivers. From intricate games of Double Dutch involving 2 long jump ropes swinging in opposite directions, to simple and fun solitary sessions, an inexpensive skipping rope can provide your children with the important exercise that their rapidly growing bodies require. Join in and you'll get fitter too!
Water pistol
This toy category delivers plenty of variety. You can buy inexpensive, small water pistols in bundled packages for pocket money. And of course, super soakers and water blasters are available which hold several pints of water. Water pistol play is fun for everyone, adults and children alike. And when someone points a water pistol in your child's direction, they are sure to start running, delivering the exercise you are looking for while they are simply having fun! OK, it might be more of a summer toy, but keep a towel handy and it'll last until it's really chilly!
A ball
Yes, just a ball. Big or small, air filled or solid, balls can be used to play a game of catch. You can also set up an indoor bowling alley down your hallway when the weather looks bad outside. You can challenge your child to see how far they can throw a ball, and a larger ball can be used for a general kickabout. Inexpensive and extremely versatile, a simple ball generates much-needed physical rewards while your child has fun playing a game - and it doesn't have to be football!
Frisbee or flying disc
Frisbee is the brand name of the most iconic and popular flying disc of all time. Whether tossing a flying disc back and forth with your children, or playing an intense game of disc golf, these simple airborne toys are great for providing exercise for your children and yourself. Dogs love them too!
Hula hoop
Like all of the toys above, a simple hula hoop or large ring makes for a challenging toy. Named after the Hawaiian Hula dance that requires gyrating hip motions, a hula hoop can be used indoors and out. Do not be surprised if your children can outperform you, since kids are a lot more limber than adults. If they get really good, just show them this video to inspire them to greater heights (or hoops)…
Jump rope / skipping rope
A simple length of rope is all that is needed for your child to benefit from the cardio and total body physical rewards that a skipping rope delivers. From intricate games of Double Dutch involving 2 long jump ropes swinging in opposite directions, to simple and fun solitary sessions, an inexpensive skipping rope can provide your children with the important exercise that their rapidly growing bodies require. Join in and you'll get fitter too!
Water pistol
This toy category delivers plenty of variety. You can buy inexpensive, small water pistols in bundled packages for pocket money. And of course, super soakers and water blasters are available which hold several pints of water. Water pistol play is fun for everyone, adults and children alike. And when someone points a water pistol in your child's direction, they are sure to start running, delivering the exercise you are looking for while they are simply having fun! OK, it might be more of a summer toy, but keep a towel handy and it'll last until it's really chilly!
A ball
Yes, just a ball. Big or small, air filled or solid, balls can be used to play a game of catch. You can also set up an indoor bowling alley down your hallway when the weather looks bad outside. You can challenge your child to see how far they can throw a ball, and a larger ball can be used for a general kickabout. Inexpensive and extremely versatile, a simple ball generates much-needed physical rewards while your child has fun playing a game - and it doesn't have to be football!
Frisbee or flying disc
Frisbee is the brand name of the most iconic and popular flying disc of all time. Whether tossing a flying disc back and forth with your children, or playing an intense game of disc golf, these simple airborne toys are great for providing exercise for your children and yourself. Dogs love them too!
Hula hoop
Like all of the toys above, a simple hula hoop or large ring makes for a challenging toy. Named after the Hawaiian Hula dance that requires gyrating hip motions, a hula hoop can be used indoors and out. Do not be surprised if your children can outperform you, since kids are a lot more limber than adults. If they get really good, just show them this video to inspire them to greater heights (or hoops)…
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