How Showing Up for Your Own Fitness Can Inspire Your Kids to Do the Same

Children imitate, and that is a fact. Most adult patterns regarding behaviour, diet and physical activity are results of family environment and practices cultivated during one’s childhood. And since sedentary behaviour among children is rising at a shockingly fast rate, how do we make sure that they aren’t heading towards an unhealthy future?  

There is an alarming statistic regarding Indian adults by the WHO, which states that more than 50% of adults do not participate in active physical exercise. And with the sharp rise of obesity rates among children due to sedentary behaviour, it is unmistakable that positive reinforcement regarding physical fitness must find a foundation at home. 

Research clearly indicates that the influence of parental behaviours regarding physical activity significantly impacts the physical activity levels and overall health patterns of their children. A study by Boston University of Medicine clearly indicates that when both parents are active, their children are 5.8 times more likely to be active as well, compared to those with inactive parents, highlighting the importance of parents serving as role models in the promotion of physical activity and fitness. 

Additionally, a systematic review in BMC Public Health indicated that parental behaviours, including physical activity levels, lifestyle choices, dietary habits, screen time and sleep patterns, significantly influence their children’s patterns as well. This also means the opposite: that by adopting healthy habits,  parents can also positively influence various aspects of their children's health. 

The Ripple Effect: How Parental Fitness Habits Influence Children 

Children often emulate the behaviours they observe in their parents. Parents’ engagement in regular physical activity subliminally inculcates the importance of physical fitness. Children, therefore, are more likely to adopt similar habits. This modelling effect is crucial in establishing a positive foundation for lifelong health. 

The involvement of children in family fitness activities can strengthen the bond between parents and children while promoting physical health as well. Family walks, yoga sessions, or playing sports together not only enhance fitness but also provide quality time and teach children the values that time spent on health is time made back, and a family that is fit together stays strong forever. 

Indian children face increasing health challenges due to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. The weakening of children's bones and muscles due to the lack of outdoor activity and excessive screen time is are concern that has been raised on multiple forums by experts. This trend is also attributed to the lack of tertiary spaces for children due to rapid urbanisation. But this could definitely be curbed. By prioritising fitness, parents can help counteract these trends and ensure their children develop strong, healthy bodies. 

Steps for Parents to Become Positive Fitness Role Models 

1. Lead by Example: Take the difficult first step to get fit. Put emphasis on your health and make it a personal priority. 

2. Being Active Together: Engaging in physical activities as a family not only promotes health but also strengthens relationships. 

3. Make it Fun: Don’t let exercise be a chore, but a goal. Mix things up and take suggestions to keep things fun and interesting. Make being fit a hit. 

4. Sports over Screens: Encourage outdoor sports and physical activities over sedentary entertainment by limiting screen time,  encouraging hikes and planning fitness activities. 

5. Discuss Health: Talk about the positive changes that physical fitness has brought about for you and initiate interesting conversations about its benefits with your children. 

Actions speak louder than words; by being the role model our children need, we can set a powerful example for them. The habits we develop today can lead to healthier, more active lifestyles for our children tomorrow.  

If you're ready to embark on a fitness journey that benefits both you and your family, but don’t know how to start, we at The Quad have all the resources to help ensure that you can reach your family health goals.

Reach out to us and let's build a healthier future together.