Are you as (fitness) smart as a fifth grader... or a toddler?

We tend to think that as we get older we get smarter and wiser, but there is much we can learn about health and fitness by taking a look at how kids move and approach life.

What are some of the latest fitness trends?  Body weight training, core training, functional training, and high intensity interval training.  Kids have been doing these types of activities before we even had terminology for them.  They climb trees, pull themselves up on monkey bars, and play hard, rest, and play hard again.  Hmmm...  sounds sort of like HIIT.

We have all heard the phrase "use it or lose it".  Well, it seems there is some truth to that.  True, as children grow into adults there are some anatomical changes that take place that reduce flexibility, but most of us can achieve far better flexibility and range of motion than we have if we just keep using it.



A physical therapist once told me that one of the worst things that man has done to his body is sit.  Prolonged sitting can lead to muscular imbalances and newer research indicates that the more we sit, the more we are at risk of numerous diseases.  Our bodies also lose their ability to move as they were intended to when we spend hours sitting at a desk or in front of the TV.  So get up out of that chair and take a lesson from a toddler on how to squat properly.

When did maintaining our cardio fitness become a chore?  As children we used to spend time most days engaging in "games" that naturally kept our heart and lungs strong.  We had recess where we played tag or kickball, and we couldn't wait to get out of school so we could jump on our bikes or go out to have a snowball fight.

Naturally, all that activity sometimes makes us tired before bedtime.  For kids, it is simple.  When you are tired, sleep.  Anytime.  Anyplace.  While the responsibilities that go along with being an adult don't always allow us to sleep anytime or anywhere, we would be healthier if we paid more attention to sleep and even allowed ourselves to indulge in the occasional nap.  Recognizing both the physical and mental benefits of sleep, some workplaces allow their employees to take naps during work hours.  (Note to self on the next SMART Fitness contract negotiation.) 

For the most part, children eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full.  Again, we can learn from them by allowing ourselves a healthy snack when we are hungry, and by being mindful of our eating at mealtimes.  When we are full, push away from the table.  

And now for the final and most fun thing we can learn from kids.  LAUGH!  When was the last time you shared a "laugh until your belly hurts and you think you are going to pee your pants" laugh with your best friend?  Mine was about two days ago, and I can't reveal the source of the laughter, but nothing feels better.  The Mayo clinic states that laughter can relieve stress, stimulate your heart, lungs, and muscles, aid relaxation, improve your immune system, relieve pain, and improve your mood.  All of that, and it's free!