4 simple ways to help your overweight kids exercise more. It's not surprising that overweight kids often don't like to exercise. Exercising in public, especially in front of other kids, can be humiliating if your weight makes it more difficult to move around. In fact, just wearing shorts and a T-shirt in front of other kids can be too embarrassing. A 2006 University of Florida study of 100 children found that bullying is a major reason why overweight kids don't exercise. Overweight children are bullied more than other kids, and they tend to avoid situations where they have been picked on before, such as gym classes or sports. But avoiding exercise isn't the answer. Hardening of the arteries can start during childhood in obese and inactive children. Regular exercise can help children reduce – and even reverse -- the risk of developing heart disease. As a parent, there are ways you can help. WebMD asked fitness experts for tips to help overweight kids find activi...