A is for Activity

Play is a great way to exercise.  The USDA recommends at least 1 hour of physical activity every day.  Outdoor play is a budget friendly activity that allows for quality family time.  Be more active in your community by participating in community/charity walking or biking event or volunteer for your child’s play day at school; it is a win-win situation for your community, your child and you!  Whether it is playing on a play structure, kicking a ball around in a field or splashing in the water, physically active play builds foundation for a healthy life.   According to the USDA increasing physical activity can: make you feel good; increase your fitness level; help build and maintain bones, muscles, and joints; build endurance and muscle strength; enhance flexibility and posture; help manage weight; lower risk of heart disease, colon cancer, and Type II diabetes; help control blood pressure; improve self-esteem and feeling of well-being; reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.   Children need to play and so do you!  For ideas on physical activity: http://www.fitness.gov/   http://www.shapeup.org