Written by - Anthony Calvano, Director, Soccer Shots Pittsburgh South

Staying active during the winter is easier said than done. If you live in the northeast, it can be even tougher – you can have some pretty tough winters. If you live in a warmer climate it can be a little bit easier, I’ll have to admit, but those of us in the northeast can’t let the winter be an excuse.

I grew up in California and was outside all the time, but then we moved to Ohio. And guess what? I was still outside all the time! I love being outside playing sports, hanging out with friends, hiking, or just plain doing anything. I guess the point I’m trying to make is that it started with my parents. My parents were very active in getting me outside or involved in different events from a very young age.

“Staying active while the snow is falling is especially important for kids. During the spring, summer and fall, it’s easy for kids to participate in outdoor sports and activities, helping to maintain a healthy weight. It’s still very important for you to maintain regular fitness routines or activities throughout the winter months.” -Dr. Jessica Rubenstein, M.D., Primary Care Physician Pediatrics, Harvard

Soccer Shots is of course a great activity to get your kids involved in, but there are so many things your kids can do. For me, growing up, there were a lot of organized sports like indoor soccer, basketball, gymnastics and volleyball, among others. What I enjoyed most, though, were the times spent outside with friends and family doing non-organized things.  When I moved to Ohio, playing in the snow was probably my favorite – whether it was some sort of made-up sports game or even a snowball fight. Of course, when I was younger, I wasn’t thinking that it was great being outside because I was getting exercise – I was just thinking that it was fun!

“The trick is to make it fun for kids. Parents can lead outdoor games such as snowball fights. Putting time limits on TV, video and computer make it easier to keep kids active.”  -Dr. Susan Adams, M.D., St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Pediatrics

Even though I loved being outside growing up, I remember there were times when I was interested in watching movies and playing video games a lot. I often needed that push from my parents to force me to get out from behind the TV. One thing I definitely noticed is that I always felt better after getting outside and doing something. I continue to this day to force myself outside – even when the weather is bad – to get some activity, because I know it will make me feel better.

“Keeping kids active — the sort of movement that gets a heart rate up — is crucial year-round.” -Dr. Maddy Weiser, M.D., runs Youth Movement Fitness Club in Bryn Mawr, Pa.

We all need to stay active during the winter months, and it’s important to show that to our children at a young age. It doesn’t mean we have to take the kids to the gym, which can often be boring for kids. Any activity that gets the heart rate up and burns some calories will be great. We are glad that Soccer Shots can be one of those fun activities to put into a week to help keep your child active and healthy!