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Music: The Movement Motivator!

By Melissa Mazanec & Marty Defilippis, Creative Cardio, LLC, Toms River January 28, 2023

Did you know that in addition to weight control, regular, moderate exercise can enhance learning and memory; improve immune function; and serve as an antioxidant (Mattson, 2014)? This is great news! Right? Unfortunately, we tend to lack the motivation to move. Kids, in particular, would often rather engage in screen time than go outside to run and play. Back in the day, we had to rely on our imaginations and neighborhood games, much of which involved physical movement, but not today. The days of kids "making their own fun" (as my mom used to say) are long gone. 



So, how can we encourage our youth to participate in activities that don't involve sitting on the couch staring at an electronic screen? Add music! Scientific studies indicate that the incorporation of music promotes adherence to physical fitness programs in healthy children as well as in those who are suffering from health issues including cancer (Meyns et al., 2019) and autism spectrum disorder (Woodman et al., 2018). Well, that's really great news!



Here are some ways to get your little one movin' and groovin':

  •  Download his favorite playlist onto a tablet or phone, and enjoy a musical walk together.
  •  Design a workout plan for her using a mash-up of kids' songs (128 bpm is an ideal speed). Include jumping jacks; jump rope; light weights (or water bottles); running in place; push-ups; and freeze dance!
  •  Invite her friends and help them choreograph a dance to rehearse and perform for you and the families.
  •  Register him for a fitness or dance program.

These are just some simple ways to incorporate music into your child’s busy schedule. Don’t worry about making a huge change all at once. Even just squeezing in 20 minutes a day can provide big benefits for her overall health and well-being in a fun and creative way!