Exercise For Children
Like adults, all children need exercise. Most children need at least an hour of physical activity every day. Kids exercise when they have gym class at school, during break time, at dance class or soccer practice, swimming, while riding bikes, or when playing.
- Exercise aids in the development of important interpersonal skills—this is especially true for participation in team sports.
- Exercise improves the quantity and quality of sleep.
- Research shows that exercise promotes improved school attendance and enhances academic performance.
- Children have a leaner body because exercise helps control body fat.
- Children are less likely to become overweight
- Children who exercise have greater self-esteem and better self-images.
- Participating in regular physical activity prevents or delays the development of many chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity, hypertension) and promotes health.
- Children who are active report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression and a better overall mood.
- Exercise helps improve motor coordination and enhances the development of various motor performance skills.
- Exercise builds and keeps healthy bones, muscles and joints.