Children have easy access to junk food, video games and electronic devices which can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle putting them at risk for health problems. Children need lots of exercise and healthy food. Enrolling your child in an after-school exercise program may help improve their overall well-being.
Types
An after-school exercise program is often offered to students and is generally split up depending on gender and age group. Most programs are voluntary and not required in the basic school curriculum. Exercise programs may be affiliated with a sport, such as basketball, baseball, archery, track or swimming. The programs may branch off from traditional sports and act as a secondary way for students to gain more knowledge and skills about a particular sport. For example, track and field athletes may be offered an after-school program that focuses on running and exercises geared toward helping them improve their athletic ability. A program may offer aerobic classes, indoor cycling classes or volleyball that allows kids to work at their own pace in a semi-structured setting.
Health Benefits
Children should get up to 60 minutes of moderate aerobic activity daily to achieve optimal health. They can split it up into activities they may do throughout the day at school, with the help of an after-school exercise program, or through sports practice. Getting daily exercise will help ward off obesity and help them trim back extra pounds they may be carrying around. Being in good physical shape may help prevent the onset of certain diseases and conditions such as hypertension, high blood cholesterol, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer.
Mental Health
When your child improves her physical health through an after-school exercise program, she can help improve her mental health. This includes issues of anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorder. Getting rid of excess stress can help better deal with his schoolwork, anxiety or anger issues and help him focus and tune in better to the task at hand. This can prove to be beneficial both at home and in the classroom.
Self-Esteem
Regular physical activity can help improve your child’s self-esteem. If she is being active with her peers, she is more likely to find common interests and develop positive relationships. It also teaches her commitment and gives her something to look forward to. It allows for goal setting and can give her a sense of accomplishment at the end of each exercise session.
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