Physical activity guidelines from NHS suggest to aim for an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous intensity physical activity a day across the week and to take part in a variety of types and intensities of physical activity across the week to develop movement skills, muscles and bones. They also suggest to reduce the time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity and aim to spread activity throughout the day.
Getting outdoors and going on walks or to the park is a great way to help your child keep active. Encourage them to get outside, in the garden or with friends. Or consider taking them to the local swimming pool.
- Get active every day - find an activity they enjoy, such as sports or walking to school
- Aim to give them a healthy, balanced diet that includes fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, protein and dairy or dairy alternatives
- Encourage a healthy attitude to eating – you can be a good role model by staying active and eating healthily yourself
Useful links:
Click on each link to find advice and age-appropriate exercise recommendations for your child:
- NHS Better Health, Healthier Families - NHS resource for activity ideas from home or out and about
- NHS Pilates - NHS pilates videos to complete from home
- The Body Coach TV - The Body Coach Jo Wicks YouTube videos
- Lancashire County Council - See ‘what’s on’ for a range of local events that might help to keep your child more active and support you in doing so
- BwD Leisure - Potential for discounted access to the gym, classes and swimming pool for Blackburn with Darwen residents
- Re:Fresh - Local initiatives to keep people active in Blackburn with Darwen. Includes activities like cycling, walking and circuit training
- Inspire - Multi-sports sessions in Chorley for children age 11 to 19
- Leisure Box - Affordable gym memberships for children age 14-18
- Blackburn Rovers - Blackburn Rover’s youth engagement programme
- Burnley FC in the Community - A range of projects and activities for children of all ages
Please note
It is important to remember that this resource contains general advice for an active, healthy lifestyle. Please consider the individual needs of your child, including their personal preferences and adapt accordingly.
Your physiotherapist may have recommended some specific exercises for you to do. It is important that you do these alongside following these recommendations for an active, healthy lifestyle.