As a follow-up to our blog on Yoga and Mindfulness, we now look at why exercise is important for kids from a young age.
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for everyone, but especially for growing children. Regular physical activity boosts both physical and mental health, not to mention the positive effects it can have on developing minds. That’s why it’s so important for kids to move and get active – no matter what age they are! In this blog post, we will discuss five fun ways to get your kids moving and explore the numerous benefits that come from regular exercise. We’ll also examine how eating a balanced diet along with participating in family activities can help promote an active lifestyle even further.
Exercise Regularly
Exercising regularly can be one of the most important things for kids. Studies have found that regular physical activity can help build strong bones and muscles, improve coordination and balance, increase energy levels, reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and memory, decrease the risk of obesity, and even boost self-esteem.
Making physical activity a part of your child’s daily routine is one simple way to keep them healthy both physically and mentally.
Encourage activities like running around in the backyard or park, playing games with friends or family members outdoors or inside, or joining a sports team. Not only will these activities get your child moving more often but they will also teach them about teamwork, discipline, and staying active.
Exercise as part of a family activity
Making exercise a family activity is a great way to get your kids moving and having fun while teaching the importance of exercise.
This quality time will not only get them exercising, but it’s a fantastic opportunity for parents to bond with their children too. Not only does family activity provide physical benefits, such as improved strength, endurance, and coordination, but it also gives the whole family an emotional boost.
There are many benefits of exercise for kids, including:
- Improved physical health: exercise helps kids build strong bones and muscles, control weight, and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
- Improved mental health: exercise can help kids reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
- It can also help them improve their mood and sleep quality.
- Improved academic performance: just like any form of physical activity, studies have shown that physically active kids tend to perform better in school.
- Improved social skills: exercise can help kids develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. It can also help them make new friends and have fun.
- Improved self-esteem: physically active kids tend to feel better about themselves, thus giving them a stronger sense of accomplishment.
Leading healthcare experts recommend it
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that kids get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day. This can include activities like running, playing tag, biking, swimming, and dancing.
There are many ways to help kids get the exercise they need. You can encourage them to be active at home, at school, and in their communities. You can also help them find activities that they enjoy and that fit into their busy schedules.
Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for kids. It can help them improve their physical and mental health, academic performance, and social skills. By encouraging kids to be active, you can help them live healthier lives.
In the UK, exercise is paramount for children as one of the leading healthcare providers stated in a 2013 titled Exercise for Children and Young People, suggested any form of exercise activity from an early age should be encouraged as it benefits a child’s development. It enhances and promotes the development of motor skills, bones, and muscles, along with cognitive and social skills. Physical activity is any movement at this age.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, regular exercise and physical activities are incredibly important for the health and well-being of children. Such simple steps as encouraging kids to walk more, join an organized sport or activity, take dance classes, play tag with friends, or enjoy a family bike ride can help keep children active and fit. It has been shown that physical activity can promote healthier minds and bodies while increasing self-confidence in young people. Encouraging kids to have fun getting moving can benefit them now – and in the future.
