Between birth and age 2, children get all the exercise they need from daily life. Although there are no generally recognized fitness requirements for this age, it is typically recommended that physical activity that aids in motor development be encouraged.

Regular fitness begins with toddlers, who are naturally active. Toddlers are developing the basic movement skills (e.g., walking, running, kicking, throwing). By the age of 2 years, most children can walk, run, and jump in place with both feet. By 3 years, most can run and jump well and can often balance on one foot for a short time, climb, pedal a tricycle, kick a ball forward and throw a ball overhand.

It is typically recommended that toddlers spend a minimum of 30 minutes every day in structured physical activity (adult-led), as well as a minimum of 60 minutes every day in unstructured physical activity (free play). It is also recommended that time watching the television or videos and time spent in a high-chair or car seat be limited in young children.

Age-appropriate active toys (e.g., balls, push-and-pull toys, riding vehicles) can provide a great deal of exercise for toddlers. Activities, including exploring a backyard or playground, imitating animal movements, simple dances, and children’s games are also good forms of exercise for toddlers.