A Note to Parents about Physical Fitness

Because maintaining a healthy weight and strong muscles helps to keep joints healthy, it is especially important for children with a bleeding disorder to exercise regularly. Strong muscles protect joints, and a healthy body helps bleeds to heal more quickly. Excess body weight can place unnecessary stress on joints and muscles, causing them to be more likely to bleed. Muscles and joint bleeds can have long lasting effects that may result in further health problems for your child in the future. The good news is that you have lots of opportunities to encourage the whole family to stay healthy!

Your children are most likely to adopt your attitudes and behaviors when it comes to physical fitness. Maintaining a healthy weight happens when the whole family lives it. Children learn by watching what you do, so work to develop personal healthy eating habits and an exercise routine.

There are lots of fun ways to live in an active, healthy life! See the list below for activities that are safest for a child with a bleeding disorder, as well as activities that are particularly dangerous for a child with a bleeding disorder and should likely be avoided. Talk with your child's doctor or Hemophilia Treatment Center to decide which activities are best.

Encourage your child to choose activities that he finds interesting or enjoyable. If he chooses to participate in a sport through school or a local organization, your Hemophilia Treatment Center can help you talk with your child's coach about hemophilia.

It's okay to set time limits for sedentary activities, like watching TV, playing video games, or using the computer. When you set limits, follow through consistently.

Even a Little Extra Excrecise Lowers Kids' Risk of Obesity