Skip to Content

Log in / Sign up

Q&A for How to Get Fit (for Kids)

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Search

Add New Question

Question

How do you motivate a lazy child to exercise?

Tiffany Jumaily, MD
Board Certified Pediatrician
Dr. Tiffany Jumaily is a Board Certified Pediatrician and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP) based in Los Angeles, California. With over a decade of experience in the medical field, Dr. Jumaily specializes in identifying the root cause of symptoms and presenting manifestations of disease. She holds a BA in Biology from Boston University and an MD from Boston University School of Medicine. Her dedication to combining evidence-based allopathic medicine with complementary and alternative therapies has led to her being featured and cited in various platforms including U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and CBS Los Angeles.

Tiffany Jumaily, MD

Board Certified Pediatrician

Expert Answer

Try to make exercise fun! You might take your kids and run around outside, play a pick-up game of soccer, or find some other activity that they really enjoy. You want to cultivate a love of fitness, for fitness's sake.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 10
Question

Can kids do weightlifting?

Tiffany Jumaily, MD
Board Certified Pediatrician
Dr. Tiffany Jumaily is a Board Certified Pediatrician and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP) based in Los Angeles, California. With over a decade of experience in the medical field, Dr. Jumaily specializes in identifying the root cause of symptoms and presenting manifestations of disease. She holds a BA in Biology from Boston University and an MD from Boston University School of Medicine. Her dedication to combining evidence-based allopathic medicine with complementary and alternative therapies has led to her being featured and cited in various platforms including U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and CBS Los Angeles.

Tiffany Jumaily, MD

Board Certified Pediatrician

Expert Answer

Yes, as long as you're not lifting excessive amounts of weight and you're doing it with proper form under proper supervision. You don't want to be lifting any weights that are so heavy that you could crush or injure yourself.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 16
Question

Should I still exercise if I'm thin?

Community Answer

Yes, it is still good to be healthy even if you are thin, but make sure to stop if you start to experience pain after working out. Rest your body when necessary.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 11 Helpful 54
Question

I'm 10, and I'm extremely lactose intolerant, so I can't eat or drink any dairy. What should I do?

Community Answer

You can eat non-dairy food. Make sure to drink coconut or almond milk to make sure that you get calcium.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 8 Helpful 36
Question

How do I exercise if I am in swimming?

Community Answer

Since swimming is cardio, any type of swim will benefit you. A few laps would be a great start!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 15 Helpful 121
Question

What can I do to lose weight indoors?

Community Answer

You can do push ups or sit ups. You can also put on your favorite song and dance to it. Make sure that you have a lots of room, so that you don't bump into anything!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 28 Helpful 165
Question

Can you give me a lisf of foods that are healthy?

Community Answer

Natural and organic foods are always the best, so look for those when you go shopping. Some examples of healthy foods: bell peppers, salmon, quinoa, anything whole grain, fruit, and steamed veggies.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 19 Helpful 102
Question

What should I do if my parents don't support my goal of getting fit?

Community Answer

Talk to your parents about why fitness is important to you and your health, then think of ways you can achieve your goals without their support. For example, you can make healthy choices when out with your friends or at school.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 26 Helpful 109
Question

How do you lose a lot of weight?

Community Answer

One way to lose a lot of weight is to watch your carbs.You should only have 3 meals and one snack a day! Make sure to include exercise also. Following this, I lost 12 pounds in a month.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 20 Helpful 95
Question

What if I eat fruits? Will I still gain weight or not?

Community Answer

With most fruits, no. Most fruits are considered diet foods because it takes more calories to digest them than the fruits have. Same goes for most vegetables.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 20 Helpful 84
Question

How can I lose weight as a child when I don't have money?

Community Answer

You don't have to have money to exercise. All you do is go outside and run around, ride your bike, or go walk to your friends house if you live close to him/her. You can also do simple things at home, such as sit ups or pushups. You can also help your parents clean the house by taking over the moping, sweeping, and/or vacuuming!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 23 Helpful 100
Question

Can I jog and sprint in my backyard since I'm older?

Community Answer

It depends how old you are. If you are 8 or older, go ahead. For kids younger than 8, it might be too hard, so don't push yourself too hard.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 23 Helpful 98
Question

How can I get fit in 15 days?

Community Answer

Start slowly because you do not want to strain your muscles. Cycling and swimming are known to be great for fitness or try regularly dancing to your favorite party songs.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 23
Question

What should I do if my parents aren't supportive?

Community Answer

If your parents are not supporting you, you could always go to your friend's house. You could also do it by yourself and walk or run around the neighborhood. Make sure that you have permission if you are young.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 13 Helpful 55
Question

If become a vegetarian, will it be easier to lose weight?

Community Answer

Because a vegetarian diet focuses on whole foods and incorporates plenty of fruits and vegetables, you are likely to lose weight more quickly if you switch. Be sure to incorporate plenty of vegetarian protein sources like nut butters, tofu, and beans.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 10 Helpful 42
Question

How can I get fit without exercise?

Community Answer

A healthy diet will take you pretty far, but exercise really is necessary if you want to get fit.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 20
Question

If I exercise for 2-3 hours, can I play computer games?

Community Answer

I don't see why not. I think it is an excellent trade off, as long as the computer game time is less than the time you spend exercising.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 19
Question

What should I do if I can't cycle or walk from school?

Community Answer

Try other activities at home. Do pushups, pullups, jumping jacks and other exercises that can be done inside without equipment. You can also ask a parent to take a walk or bike ride with you after school.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 12
Question

How much exercise do I have to do each day?

Community Answer

The average person needs about half an hour of exercise per day. If you think this is too much or too little for you, don't be afraid to do more/less. However, it is still essential to do some exercise just about every day. It also depends on what kind of exercise you are going to do. Ten minutes of extreme push ups, sit-ups, etc., could be just as effective as a 30 minute run or walk. But in general, aim for a time around 30 minutes on most days.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 11
Question

Does being overweight to the point where your belly is bigger than your hips affect your heart?

Community Answer

Calories that your body takes in and doesn't use up are converted into fat. This fat can cause a buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels, which may lead to a heart attack.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 5 Helpful 24
Question

I just can't resist from eating unhealthily/junk food, but I also don't want to eat it. What can I do?

Community Answer

Remove those things from your house so you won't be tempted, and during shopping avoid aisles that have sugary foods like ice cream or cakes.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 3 Helpful 14
Question

What if I am a picky eater and don't like the foods I should eat?

Community Answer

If you don't like many fruits or vegetables, you should try maybe mixing some fruit together with a bit of fruit yogurt, this always helps for me. If that doesn't work, then try more exercise and make a daily routine for it. When you get home from school, go for a 15 min run then cycle for ten minutes. Do five push-ups.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 7
Question

How do I get fit inside with weights?

Community Answer

Put weightlifting into your routine. For example, after breakfast, lift weights and run in the garden. Then do the same 3 hours before bed. Why do this? If you exercise just before bed, it keeps your adrenaline pumping and you will not be able to sleep at all, so exercise 3 hours prior to bed to give your body time to settle down. Eat dinner earlier as well.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
Question

If I eat one bag of chips or a little bit of candy, will it affect my diet?

Community Answer

No, it won't. Just make sure you're eating these things as occasional treats and not every day snacks!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
Question

How many fruits and vegetables should I eat?

Community Answer

Try to eat 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. 7 is a good number to aim for (for example, 3 servings of fruit and 4 servings of vegetables).

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

Can I have some candy and ice cream once a month?

Community Answer

Of course, just not a surplus amount of it. Most people dieting allow a "cheat day", as long as portions are controlled. Balance it out with some fruit and you'll be fine!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

Can I get fit in two days?

Community Answer

Nope! Getting fit takes time, but it will take less time for a kid than it does for an adult. Work out a little each day and cut out junk food and soda and you'll see results in a few weeks.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

What is the average weight of a ten year old?

Community Answer

It depends on your gender, height and body type. The average boy weighs 40-90lbs, while girls are about 60-100lbs.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 3
Question

My mom thinks I shouldn't do a meal list for myself. I'm 11. What should I do?

Community Answer

You don't necessarily need a meal planner, just do your best to choose the healthiest options available to you and don't eat overly large portions. You should also cut out junk food and sugary drinks like soda. If you do these things, you'll be in good shape.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

What exercises can I do to get fit?

Community Answer

Among other things, you could try squats, running, swimming, skipping and basically anything else that gets your heart going?

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Return to Full Article

You Might Also Like

-

-

.mwimg a.image{display:none}#header_logo{display:none}#cse-search-box{display:none}#cse-search-box-noscript{display:block !important}#cse-search-box-noscript .cse_q{color:#FFF;background-color:#B3CE9C}.wh_search .cse_q{width:88%}#mw-mf-main-menu-button{display:none;visibility:hidden}.header .search{display:none}#search_footer .cse_sa{background-image:url(/extensions/wikihow/mobile/images/white_mag.png);background-size:22px}.related_box{display:block;background:#EEE;border:5px solid #FFF;vertical-align:bottom;width:127px;background-size:180px;float:left;height:120px;position:relative}.related_box p{line-height:15px !important;font-size:13px;background-color:rgba(67,95,44,.4);color:#FFF;font-weight:bold;padding:8px;margin:0 !important;position:absolute;bottom:0}#noscript_header_logo{display:table-cell;vertical-align:middle;background-position:50% 77%;background-repeat:no-repeat;background-image:url(/extensions/wikihow/mobile/images/wikihow_logo_230.png);background-size:105px;width:auto;height:51px;padding:0 14px}.articleinfo{display:none}#iorg_free_data{z-index:50;width:100%;position:fixed}#ara_recommendations{display:none}