While there are still many children who remain physically
active, there are more and more children that rather surf the Internet or play video
games than be involved in physical activity.
Ensuring children have enough physical activities throughout the day is
very important to their growth and development. Exercise benefits children’s physical health,
motor skills and mental health in many ways:
* It will develop muscle strength that will assist in
preventing injuries.
* It will improve their heart and lung capacities that will
help them function more efficiently.
This will benefit in day-to-day activities and in controlling blood pressure.
* It will assist in keeping their bones strong, which will
aid in preventing osteoporosis later on in life.
* It will decrease body fat and assist in maintaining a
steady, healthy weight.
* It will help children expend energy, which helps with weight
control.
*Their self-esteem appears to rise and they gain confidence,
feeling comfortable in their own shoes.
*It helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety due to
the physical activity alternating the brains chemistry and increasing the
levels of serotonin.
*It increases concentration and alertness by releasing
endorphins that act on the brain to improve mental focus and cognitive
skills.
*It helps boost their energy levels by stimulating their
circulation and blood flow that deliver oxygen and nutrients to their
tissues.
*It controls mood swings and improves feelings of happiness!
It
is mental stimulation that gives children the sense that they have achieved
something.
In order to
achieve results, it is suggested that children take part in some type of
physical activity at least 60 minutes every day according to the American Heart
Association. Unlike adults, they do not
need to follow a specific exercise program to achieve these results. Running, jumping, climbing, playing on the
playground, shooting hoops, kicking a soccer ball, riding bikes, etc. are all
examples of activities that are sufficient to meet their needs. Going to the pool is another great option
that is fun for everyone and can be a great aerobic exercise. They should take part in activities that
interest them. Activities at a local YMCA or after school sports can be a fun
option. As a parent or leader, you can
take part in their physical activity and be a role model. Ask them what they like to do and get the
entire family involved. Let them pick
the activity; this makes them feel special!
Make sure they have access to active toys like balls, jump ropes, bikes,
etc. Making the activity fun and playing
as a family will trump the Internet and video games and the child will receive
the exercise they need.
Teaching
children a healthy active lifestyle will benefit them well into the
future. It is important to be involved
and ensure they have the resources available to be physically active. Making it fun and not too much like a lesson
is key with children. If they are doing
something they enjoy and are not forced to do it, they are likely not to
quit. Regular physical activity is very
important for children as their growth, development and mental health depends
on it. Exercise on!
This content is not intended
to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider
with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard
professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you
have read herein.
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