Why Lazy Habits Are Contagious
by Amy Sczepanski, Client Services Coordinator
A new study in Sports Medicine and Health Science shows that kids often mirror their parents’ activity levels.
Researchers tracked more than 180 children aged 6-17 and their parents for a week.
The results were clear: inactive parents tend to have more sedentary kids, while active parents raise kids who move.
Moms had the strongest influence, nearly twice that of dads.
Active parents not only understand the benefits of exercise, but they also encourage it, keep kids involved in sports or outdoor play, and limit screen time.
“Sedentary habits aren’t just laziness – they’re shaped by access, time, and environment,” said senior researcher Diego Christofaro. “But our study shows parents’ habits have a real effect on children’s health. Encouraging physical activity starts with example, not just instruction, and parents are the role models kids follow most closely.”
Article source:
Thompson, D. (2025, September 10). Inactive parents tend to have couch potato kids.
