Kids these days run around the same way we did when we were young, but their reasons for doing so and their expectations are a little different.

While there might be a bit more protection from parents and organizations thrown in - helicopter parenting, the ‘everyone gets a trophy’ and the ‘everyone’s a winner’ philosophy - I think fitness has come a long way. Specifically, the sports our nieces and nephews play are better organized and the health outcomes from these activities are better recognized.

So what’s the savvy uncle to do if he wants to keep up with his active and educated young relatives? He’s got to educate himself on health and fitness, and he has to take an interest in setting a good fitness example for the children around him.

This doesn’t require every uncle to run marathons or cycle centuries, but if you’re winded by walking the dog or operating the TV clicker you might need to familiarize yourself with the gym and a regular fitness routine. In fact, getting and staying fit is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your nieces and nephews.

Best of all, if you’re in better shape you’ll get to be on this planet longer which means more time to spend with nieces and nephews.

To start, let’s look at three fitness models and how those models can be shared with children.

1 - Walking. It sounds simplistic and silly, but every doctor will encourage their patients to walk regularly and briskly as part of a normal fitness routine. Walking at a pace that keeps you slightly out of breath is an optimum speed. You can include nieces and nephews in this activity by walking near their house or by making it a habit to walk them to and from school or the bus stop. On the weekends or holidays, have them pick a course to walk and then spend 30-45 minutes walking with them. You get in shape, and they get to spend time with you. Everyone wins.

2 - Sports. As some school systems eliminate sports programs and team sports, you might be the only source of sports information for your favorite young relatives. Find out what sports the kids are playing at school and identify complementary activities that you can do with them. Also find out what sports they already like that might no longer be offered at school. Examples include doing sprints on the track to help a nephew who is planning on playing basketball or soccer. Or playing catch with your niece who is planning to go out for the lacrosse or field hockey team. Activities that build quickness and hand-eye coordination easily translate into success in many sports.

3 - Planning Healthy Meals. No, it’s not a sport, but your nieces and nephews will soon realize that a poorly fueled body doesn’t do well on the field. Teach them about proteins, fats, sugars and more so they know what foods work best when they go out to play. Help them understand the importance of a balanced diet and which foods provide natural energy. Further, educate them to drink appropriate amounts of water, especially if the sports they’re playing require lots of running around.

It’s just a start, but if you get your nieces and nephews started thinking about the importance of fitness, you’ll be the proudest uncle ever when they excel in their chosen activities.

Photo: Jim Larrison via Flickr cc
Published: February 19, 2014