When most adults think about exercise, they imagine working out in the gym on a treadmill or lifting weights. But for children, exercise means playing and being physically active. Kids exercise when they have gym class at school, soccer practice, or dance class. They're also exercising when they're at recess, riding bikes, or playing tag.
The Many Benefits of Exercise
Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. A child who is active will:
Have stronger muscles and bones Have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat Be less likely to become overweight Decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes Possibly lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels Have a better outlook on lifeIn addition to the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle the physical and emotional challenges that a typical day presents - be that running to catch a bus, bending down to tie a shoe, or studying for a test.
The Three Elements of Fitness
If you've ever watched children on a playground, you've seen the three elements of fitness in action. The child:
Runs away from the kid that's "it" (endurance) Crosses the monkey bars (strength) Bends down to tie his or her shoes (flexibility)Parents should encourage their kids to do a variety of activities so that they can work on all three elements.
Endurance is developed when someone regularly engages in cardio or aerobic activity (aerobic means "with air"). During aerobic exercise, the heart beats faster and a person breathes harder. When done regularly and for continuous periods of time, aerobic activity strengthens the heart and improves the body's ability to deliver oxygen to all its cells.
Why is exercise or physical activity important for my child?
Increased physical activity has been associated with an increased life expectancy and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Physical activity produces overall physical, psychological and social benefits. Inactive children are likely to become inactive adults. And physical activity helps with
Controlling weight Reducing blood pressure Raising HDL ("good") cholesterol Reducing the risk of diabetes and some kinds of cancer Improved psychological well-being, including gaining more Self-confidence and higher self-esteemHow do I promote physical activity in my child?
Physical activity should be increased by reducing sedentary time (e.g., watching television, playing computer video games or talking on the phone).
Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescents.
Parents should try to be role models for active lifestyles and provide children with opportunities for increased physical activity.
What if my child is uncoordinated or overweight?
All children, even less-coordinated ones, need to be physically active. Activity may be particularly helpful for the physical and psychological well-being of children with a weight problem.
