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How Much Should An 11 Year Old Workout

Written by April Mar 08, 2023 ยท 5 min read
How Much Should An 11 Year Old Workout

Table of Contents .

Table of Contents:

Introduction

As parents, it's important to encourage our children to stay active and healthy. One question that often comes up is, how much exercise should an 11 year old get? It can be tough to figure out the right amount of physical activity for your child, especially with the busy schedules of school and extracurricular activities. In this article, we'll explore different factors to consider when determining how much exercise an 11 year old should get, as well as tips, solutions, and FAQs to help you create a workout plan for your child.

How Much Exercise Should an 11 Year Old Get?

According to the American Heart Association, children between the ages of 6 and 17 should get at least one hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. This can include activities such as playing outside, riding a bike, swimming, dancing, or participating in organized sports. However, it's important to note that every child is different and their exercise needs may vary based on factors such as their age, weight, and overall health.

How to Get an 11 Year Old to Exercise

Getting an 11 year old to exercise can be a challenge, especially if they're not naturally inclined to be active. Here are some tips for encouraging your child to get moving:

  • Lead by example: Show your child that exercise is important by incorporating physical activity into your own routine.
  • Make it fun: Find activities that your child enjoys and make them feel like play, such as playing tag or going on a family hike.
  • Get involved: Encourage your child to participate in organized sports or activities that interest them.
  • Set goals: Work with your child to set achievable fitness goals, such as running a mile or doing 10 push-ups.

Step by Step Guide for an 11 Year Old Workout

Here's a step-by-step guide for creating an exercise routine for your 11 year old:

  1. Set a schedule: Decide on a regular time each day for your child to exercise, such as before or after school.
  2. Choose activities: Work with your child to choose activities that they enjoy and that meet the recommended guidelines for moderate to vigorous physical activity.
  3. Warm up: Start each workout with a five to ten minute warm-up, such as jogging in place or jumping jacks.
  4. Main workout: Encourage your child to engage in their chosen activities for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Cool down: End each workout with a five to ten minute cool down, such as stretching or walking.

Tips for an 11 Year Old Workout

Here are some additional tips for creating a successful workout routine for your 11 year old:

  • Make it a family affair: Get the whole family involved in physical activity to make it more fun and motivating.
  • Be flexible: Allow your child to try different activities and adjust their routine as needed to keep them engaged.
  • Provide positive reinforcement: Praise your child for their efforts and progress, and celebrate their accomplishments.
  • Stay safe: Make sure your child wears appropriate clothing and protective gear for their chosen activities, and supervise them as needed.

Solutions for an 11 Year Old Workout

If your child is struggling to find an activity they enjoy, consider these solutions:

  • Try a variety of activities: Expose your child to different types of physical activity, such as martial arts or dance classes, to find what they like.
  • Make it social: Encourage your child to exercise with friends or join a team sport for social support and motivation.
  • Set goals: Work with your child to set specific fitness goals that give them something to work towards.

FAQs About an 11 Year Old Workout

Here are some common questions parents have about their child's exercise routine:

  • Q: How much exercise should an 11 year old get each day?
  • A: An 11 year old should aim for at least one hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day.
  • Q: What types of activities count as moderate to vigorous physical activity?
  • A: Activities such as running, biking, swimming, dancing, and playing sports all count as moderate to vigorous physical activity.
  • Q: What are some benefits of regular exercise for an 11 year old?
  • A: Regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve mood and concentration.

Pros and Cons of an 11 Year Old Workout

Here are some potential benefits and drawbacks of an 11 year old workout routine:

  • Pros:
    • Improves physical health and fitness
    • Boosts mood and self-esteem
    • Provides social opportunities
  • Cons:
    • Can lead to injury if not done safely
    • May be difficult to find activities that the child enjoys
    • Can be time-consuming and challenging to fit into a busy schedule

Conclusion

Overall, it's important for 11 year olds to get at least one hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. By finding activities that they enjoy and creating a regular exercise routine, parents can help their children develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come.