This article was originally published on momaha.com.

Did you know that just one hour of activity each day is essential for maintaining a healthy mind and body? As parents, we play a crucial role in shaping our children's physical fitness habits. The influence we have during their formative years can significantly impact how they approach fitness as adults. Children who are inactive often carry those habits into adulthood.

Children learn from our actions as much as from our words. Therefore, it's vital to set personal fitness goals before encouraging our kids. Focus on the time you dedicate to physical activity rather than weight goals, and make sure to share these goals with your children.

Take an active role.

Engage in your child's physical activities. They don't necessarily need to be part of an organized sports team, which may not suit every child. Encourage them to play games like tag or chase, ride their bikes, or even help with household chores like mowing the lawn or vacuuming. Participate in these activities together or offer positive reinforcement to motivate them.

If your child is involved in organized sports, be a supportive spectator. Leave distractions like your phone or a book at home and show genuine interest in both their achievements and their commitment to the team.

Make things fun.

Help your child discover activities they enjoy. People are more likely to engage in activities that they find fun. If your child is unsure of what interests them, explore various options together. Remember, physical activity can also include chores around the house!

Here are some suggestions for engaging activities: hiking, mowing the lawn, playing badminton, shoveling snow, jogging, dancing, basketball, rock climbing, archery, or rollerblading.