Swimming Benefit Overweight Kids

Here’s about how swimming can benefit overweight kids.

If your child doesn't know how to swim, find an instructor at your local pool, swim club, or fitness center. Your child needs to start out right by knowing how to breathe properly and how to position his or her body to avoid strain.

Once your child has had lessons, encourage swimming two or three times a week. Don't be surprised if your child becomes so addicted to the water that he or she asks to go swimming every day. Make sure to check with the doctor first, though, before your child starts an exercise routine.

Swim gear
Aside from a bathing suit, your child won't need much in the way of equipment. One important piece of equipment that may come in handy is a good pair of goggles to prevent eye irritation and help your child see underwater. If he or she wears glasses, ask about prescription goggles. Don't forget the sunscreen if your child is swimming outdoors. And while not essential, swim fins and kickboards are great tools for building and working leg muscles.

Swimming for exercise
Talk to your doctor about the best type of swim routine for your child. It's important to start off slowly and build gradually. The amount of time your child swims is more important than how quickly he or she moves.

Advise your child to move at his or her own pace, for instance swimming for 30 seconds and then resting for 30 seconds. Over time, when your child feels ready, he or she can gradually increase the intervals to 45 seconds on and 15 seconds off.

Encourage a break from this routine every now and then. If you have fins or a kickboard, have your child work on strengthening his or her leg muscles. Or suggest that your child switch things up by trying the breaststroke or backstroke for a while.