7-Day Challenge to Motivate Your Child and Kickstart a Workout Routine

We all know that it can be challenging to motivate a child to start a workout routine or begin making healthier choices. Many children may prefer video games and junk food to workouts and healthy eating— and while I believe that moderation is the key, I do know that teaching them to make healthy choices while they are young is very important in their habits as they grow up.

In my years as a youth trainer, I’ve found that every child is motivated by something different. Some may be competitive and want to win against their peers or personal records. Some may want to be faster… so they’re motivated by beating their own time. Some may be more motivated by gamification of the workouts and the creativity behind it. One thing that I noticed almost always works for everyone? Rewards! (Who doesn’t love a reward!?)

What is the one thing your child would do almost anything for? Maybe the new game that just came out or tickets to their favorite sport game or concert? If you’re concerned that your child needs to begin making healthier choices, I encourage you to try this 7 Day Challenge. Ask your child to commit to just 7 days to “earn” their reward. Whether the goal is to jump start weight loss, or open them up to trying new foods and creating healthier habits, this 7 Day Challenge is great for everyone in the Family.

Afterwards, I encourage you to talk to your child and ask them how they feel? What parts were hard and which were easier? I think many times, the reason a child may not want to start a workout routine is that they don’t understand the benefits. If this challenge is fun and something the whole family commits to, it very well could be a lesson of what healthier choices look like.

Finally— feel free to modify. Maybe you feel your child may prefer a different “workout” routine such as dancing, or playing at the park. Whatever it is— make it fun and try to go all in with them.

Here’s to a great school year full of healthier choices!

Day 1:
– Try one new vegetable.