Today’s children are struggling with overweight and obesity as no previous generation has done. Unfortunately, this increase in girth, brings with it a lot more than just physical appearance issues. Cases of heart disease, diabetes, and other lifestyle related diseases are appearing at a much younger age than previous generations have seen.
A recent nine month study showed that physical activity improves both the cardiovascular health and weight in eight and nine year old children. Researchers followed elementary school children, part of which were involved in an after school physical activity program, part of which where not. The program provided moderate to vigorous physical activity five times a week. Those involved in the after school program had improved physical fitness and were better able to control their weight. For the children who did not participate in the physical activity program there was seen no improvement in physical fitness and in fact there was even a increase in unneeded weight gain among them.
Physical activity is a key to keeping kids fit. The efforts to help children keep active will be paid back in better health and fitness for years to come. If your children are not getting sufficient exercise, why not join them in some fun physical activities like biking, swimming or playing active games?
Positive Tip: Provide your children regular physical activity.
Source: PositiveChoices.com. Used with permission.