Activities to help kids move more every day

Kids need 60 minutes of physical activity each day, with at least 30 minutes of that outside of school. You don't need to buy expensive equipment or find lots of extra time to make a difference. Every bit of movement adds up to support their health and wellbeing.

Need some inspiration? We have lots of ideas to help! Whatever your family enjoys, there's a fun way to get moving together.

Joe Wicks' top 5 tips for getting kids moving (and loving it!)

Getting kids moving doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to be playful - and it can be done in short bursts. Whatever your kid is into, there's a way of moving that they'll love, and that can easily fit into your day.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Make movement fun indoors

Turn everyday tasks into games – race to tidy up, dance in the kitchen while dinner's cooking, or try a quick online workout like 'Activate'. Movement doesn't need to look like 'exercise', it just needs to be fun!

2. Get outside, whatever the weather

A brisk game of tag or a trip to the park can warm everyone up and kids see it as play, not a chore. So, wrap up and get out there!

3. Turn the school run into an adventure

Walk, scoot or cycle when you can. Make it playful – count dogs, race to lampposts, or invent your own challenges. It’s sneaky exercise that they'll love.

4. Keep it relaxed and role model it

There are so many different types of sport to try out, and remember that not every child loves competitive activities, and that's OK! Try things like frisbee, swimming or cycling. Most importantly, show them how you enjoy being active – they'll follow your lead.

5. Explore local activities

Look out for free or low-cost events. A change of scene can spark new interests and keep things exciting.

Joe Wicks is wearing a red t-shirt and sitting on a staircase. — Joe Wicks, also known as 'The Body Coach', is a British fitness coach, author, and television presenter.

Why being active matters

There are lots of good reasons for kids to be active! Research shows that physical activity helps school-age children in lots of ways.

Here are some of the benefits of staying active:

Improves behaviour, self-confidence and social skills

Improves attention levels and performance at school

Develops co-ordination

Strengthens muscles and bones

Improves health and fitness

Maintains healthy weight

Helps them sleep better

Improves mood and makes them feel good

Activity ideas to try today

Activity ideas to plan ahead

Discover local ways to get active with "Let's Move!"

"Let's Move!" aims to inspire and help families around Bradford, Essex, Lancashire and Sandwell to get active together in their local communities.

If you're in one of these areas, you can find free or low-cost programmes, events and activities at the websites below. Now's the time to move more and have fun together.

Find activities near you:

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