According to the American Council on Exercise, "by the time they reach high school, 64 percent of children are no longer physically active." This may be attributed to the amount of time kids now spend playing video games and watching television. Parents are encouraged to engage in physical activity with their children and they should remember that they are the kids' best motivators. Make exercise and healthy meal preparation a family event that takes place on a regular basis. Tips for parents include incorporating an hour of physical activity per day into their child's schedule, as well as limiting television and computer usage to two hours per day.
Healthy Lifestyles
Not only does physical activity prevent obesity, but it also teaches kids habits that carry over into adulthood. The American Council on Exercise lists the following reasons kids should get exercise: "Children are more likely to keep exercising as an adult, exercise helps kids achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, regular physical activity helps build and maintain strong, healthy muscles, bones and joints."
Social Skills and Self-Esteem
Children who exercise develop important interpersonal skills, especially when participating in team sports, they are better able to adjust in social settings and learn to work with others. Some other reasons include greater self-esteem and self-image. Children who are physically active have fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. They have a better overall mood and get along well with others.
Chronic Disease Prevention
The American Council on Exercise also states that "physical activity prevents or delays the development of many chronic diseases." Kids who exercise are less likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension. These are not just adult ailments and have been affecting children at an alarmingly increasing rate. Exercise will help increase bone density, leading to decreased risk of osteoporosis. Improved motor coordination and performance skills also result from physical activity.
Keep it Fun
It is important to keep physical activity fun and exciting. Not all kids will want to participate in sports or structured forms of exercise. Parents should let their children try different forms of fitness activities such as games or dance classes. No matter the activity, parents should provide positive reinforcement and reward their kids for trying an activity.
References
- American Council on Exercise: Top 10 Reasons Kids Should Exercise
- "Youth Fitness: An Action Plan for Shaping America's Kids"; Matt Brzycki and Fred Fornicola; 2008
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