Aerobics for Children: The Perfect Workout

Aerobics are a form of calisthenics, and are done through movements of the torso, arms and legs to the rhythm of music. 

In general, there is a guide or instructor that leads a group of participants in these movements. And classes usually take place in larges rooms with mirrors, or in outdoor spaces.

Aerobics for children maintain the same principles as aerobics for adults. However, the intensity varies, as does the amount of time that training lasts. Both of these factors will depend on the ages of the participants.

Below, we’ll tell you about the benefits of aerobics for children.

Aerobics for children: A great alternative

Originally, the first aerobic training exercises were tied to military practices. In the 1970’s, doctors around the world began recommending aerobics as an ideal exercise for keeping the heart, lungs and muscles in good shape. What’s more, they also help to achieve optimal muscle tone.

That’s how different types of aerobic exercises began to develop, adjusting to the needs of specific groups of individuals. Children are one of the groups that can reap the benefits of aerobic exercise.

There is one common denominator among all the varieties of aerobic exercises, including aerobics for children. They all keep breathing and cardiac frequency moderately elevated. 

Furthermore, this elevation should last for an established amount of time in order to burn off fat and sugar while also boosting energy and muscle tone.

What do aerobics for children involve?

As we stated above, children can become involved in aerobics from the time they’re 4 years old and up until the age of 10. Of course, the intensity of classes should be in accordance with their abilities.

An aerobics class for children will include the following elements:

• Music that isn’t too fast, preferably using children’s music that the little ones will enjoy.
• Classes begin with gentle, delicate warmup exercises that include circular movements of the extremities – head, arms, legs and feet.
• Choreography and movements that are fun for kids to repeat and through which they can build their endurance as the class advances.
• At least two or three times to rest during the class time. These breaks allow children to get a drink of water and catch their breath.
• The class will end with relaxation and stretching exercises. These slow and gentle movements will be similar to the warmup exercises from the beginning of class. At the same time, the instructor will encourage children to take long, deep breaths.

It’s important to clarify that activities like walking, running, dancing and jumping also fall into the category of aerobic exercise. Therefore, the class instructor may make variations in class and include some of these types of activities.

The benefits of aerobics for children

When practiced regularly, aerobic exercises offer a number of benefits when it comes to children’s health. And of course, since this activity helps burn off fat and sugar, it’s ideal for children who are overweight or struggle with obesity.

Among the multiple benefits of aerobics for children are the following:

• Through the movement and space perception, children develop their sense of balance.
• Children become more agile and learn to control their bodies.
• Kids learn to remove their inhibitions through dance and the sound of music.
• Aerobic exercises strengthen their bones, muscles and tendons.

• Improves cardiac and respiratory resistance.
• Aerobics combat obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
• Reduces total cholesterol levels in the blood.
• Reduces adrenaline levels, leading to reduced stress in children.
• Improves neurogenesis, which translates to an improved intellectual ability.

With all of the advantages that practicing aerobics offers, introducing your children to  this activity is a great idea. You can go along with them or invite their friends to take part as well.

Without a doubt, your little ones will gain enthusiasm about maintaining healthy habits for life.