Kids Fitness
Great Lakes trainers work with children to teach them proper form and control. Kids Fitness Room with "miniature equipment" shown.
Trainer working with girl in class.
An increasing number of children are obese, and if no intervention is made, 80% of them will stay overweight as adults. This can put them at risk for many medical problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea. Obesity can also adversely affect their self-esteem.
Family Fitness
Great Lakes Health & Fitness believes that fitness is for the whole family. It should be fun and not a burden. They have the facility to accommodate this – from numerous group classes, women’s only, seniors workout center, huge free weight area, main fitness room with a huge selection of top-of-the-line equipment, and a kids fitness area that includes all “miniature equipment”.
Kids Fitness & Karate
Lloyd Adams of Adams Karate Fitness will be leading a kids exercise class with an introduciton to basic karate. Come have fun! The class is free. Check our calendar for schedule.
Why is exercise or physical activity important for my child?
Increased physical activity has been associated with an increased life expectancy and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Physical activity produces overall physical, psychological and social benefits. Inactive children are likely to become inactive adults. And physical activity helps with
- controlling weight
- reducing blood pressure
- raising HDL ("good") cholesterol
- reducing the risk of diabetes
- improved well-being, including gaining more self-confidence
and higher self-esteem
How do I promote physical activity in my child?
- Physical activity should be increased by reducing sedentary time (e.g., watching television, playing computer video games or talking on the phone).
- Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescents.
- Parents should try to be role models for active lifestyles and provide children with opportunities for increased physical activity.
- Parents can
exercise with their kids at Great Lakes Health & Fitness
(show them it’s fun)
What if my child is uncoordinated or overweight?
All children, even less-coordinated ones, need to be physically active. Activity may be particularly helpful for the physical and psychological well-being of children with a weight problem.
The American Heart Association recommends:
- All children age 2 and older should participate in at least 30 minutes of enjoyable, moderate-intensity physical activities every day that are developmentally appropriate and varied.
- If your child or children don't have a full 30-minute activity break each day, try to provide at least two 15-minute periods or three 10-minute periods in which they can engage in vigorous activities appropriate to their age, gender and stage of physical and emotional development.