Is exposing your children to seeing you exercise healthy for their self-esteem?

Melinda - posted on 10/19/2010

i feel this is a great thing.. just think of the important lessons you are teaching to your kids about daily exercise and feeling good about taking care of yourself.. you are also giving them the confidence to exercise for themselves.. my children are often playing in the room while i am exercising and they will intermitently come and do a few moves or comment on how much they love exercise because it makes them feel better.. my kids are 2,5, and almost 7... so excited for their futures living a healthy lifestyle.

Lacey - posted on 09/25/2010

I think it's great! What an amazing example you are setting for your children! You can still teach your kids to respect all shapes and sizes but also how to take care of themselves. Nice work mom!

Candi - posted on 08/30/2010

Definitely a great idea...Lead by example and show your kids first hands what is key to a healthy body : ) ~Good Job mom!

Bo Lynn - posted on 08/01/2010

You are their role model. If they see you getting up and being active a lot, they won't know what it's like to laze around and watch dishes pile up. My mom was up and moving and cleaning the house and keeping her things nice and it has definitely rubbed off on me. When it gets extreme (trying to lose and unhealthy amount of weight) or if they hear yourself talking about how bad you hate your thighs or whatever, they will pick up on that too!

Dana - posted on 08/01/2010

I took the boys to the gym, then I decided to pull the step out at home and do my own routine every other day. They asked great questions of why I exercise and after that, they were fine and also are receptive to staying fit themselves. I think it instills a wonderful habit and the importanct of staying healthy to build strength for everyday life!

Shaina - posted on 07/29/2010

I think it is great! If you expose them to fitness at a young age it can rub off on them. I know some might say it can cause self esteem issues, but I don't think that's the case. If your teaching your kids about keeping healthy and the fitness aspect, and not putting yourself down in front of them, I think it can only help them. I know I want my children to take good care of themselves, and if you just make it a part of everyday life, so will they. In the long run, if you feel healthy, you have better self esteem.