Look Who it Was Random video

Giving Your Kids a Running Start

51 views · Published 17 November 2014 · 1:51 · Indexed 4 November 2026

Channel: Lee Health · 2014 · Science & Technology

Watch on YouTube

As if having two kids wasn’t challenge enough, Lisa Moss set a lofty goal for herself.

“My initial goal after having the twins was to run a marathon that year,” says Moss. 

And she did. In the three years since she hasn’t stopped running; between being a wife, mother and busy professional. Fact is, Lisa is setting a good example for her children.

“They even know what attire to get me for running. Ben will say ‘mom, you need your watch, you need your visor, you need your sunglasses. And then they like to try to run, too, or bike,” says Moss. 

“If the parent is actively engaged, it’s the best role model,” says Dr. Nancy Witham, a pediatrician with Lee Memorial Health System. 

Pediatrician Nancy Witham has taken aim at childhood obesity. A big step in battling it is to get off the couch: that goes for the entire family.

“It is good to see a parent do it. And we think about it in all sorts of things that children suddenly copy their parents on. But physical activity is great. And that can be something that you do together,” says Dr. Witham. 

The foundation for a healthy lifestyle starts at a young age. Studies found that children who are overweight in kindergarten are 5 times as likely to be obese by middle school. The key is to capitalize on their energy.

“Set realistic goals. An hour is our preference, but fifteen minutes three times a day, four times a day divided up could be absolutely an accomplishment. 5:30 we’re aiming for lots of fun and wiggling,” says Dr. Witham. 

Jogging, swimming, biking, soccer are all good entry-level activities. If nothing else, kids enjoy a change of pace.

“They get to do little things that are fun and age appropriate and it gives them some exposure to different things - and rather than just sitting and watching - they’re actually doing,” says Moss. 

Including your kids in your exercise may motivate you as well. 

View More Health Matters video segments at leememorial.org/healthmatters/

Lee Memorial Health System in Fort Myers, FL is the largest network of medical care facilities in Southwest Florida and is highly respected for its expertise, innovation and quality of care. For nearly a century, we’ve been providing our community with everything from primary care treatment to highly specialized care services and robotic assisted surgeries.

Visit leememorial.org

More from this channel