In this country, and in many developed countries, children no longer get much exercise.

The presence of television and computers in most homes has had the unfortunate effect of having a large percentage of the underage population getting very little exercise, and in many cases they get no exercise at all.

There are serious consequences for children not getting any exercise.

Many children have become overweight, and often obese. The culprits are the lack of exercise, especially aerobic exercise, and bad eating habits that have made their way into many children's lives.

The lack of aerobic exercise and poor eating habits will impact the child's health as well as their growth rate. They need aerobic exercise so their muscles will grow strong, and their hearts and lungs will also grow strong and healthy. Aerobic exercise is vital for children's growth.

Parents who believe their children have poor eating habits, and are not getting much exercise have three ways to improve this situation readily available to them.

First: Educate Your Children About Healthy Eating

This education must be through the enforcement of proper eating habits. Whatever eating habits children have will carry on to adulthood and have a long term effect on their health.

But it's not just the children that must consume healthy, nutritious food. This is important for every member of the family. By observing the example of adults and of older siblings, children get a strong lesson on what to eat. They will learn good eating habits by observation and imitation.

Your children also need to be taught not to eat in front of the television or computer. This must come from a strong rule set and strictly enforced by the parents.

Second: Suggest Other Activities While the Television And the Computer Are Not On.

One alternative would be to encourage children to play games that involve a lot of running, or to play sports and other games in your backyard.

Third: Set Up an Exercise Period For the Entire Family.

It would be much easier and enjoyable for the children to participate in an activity that involved the whole family.

You must set aside time in your schedule for an activity with the entire family. Hopefully this can be done outside, even if it consists of playing catch or going for a family walk.

Having a family workout would do wonders for several reasons. Not only could every one improve their health, but the children would develop exercise habits that would stay with them through adulthood.

You would be providing your family an opportunity to enjoy time together, while contributing to the health and well being of the entire family.