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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity Facts
- President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition: Facts & Statistics
- Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine: Physical Activity During Youth Sports Practices
- Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine: Physical Activity During Youth Sports Practices
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Percentage of Kids Who Don't Exercise
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity rates have risen dramatically since 1980 12. In 1980, approximately 7 percent of kids age 6 to 11 and 5 percent of kids from 12 to 19 were obese. By 2010, both percentages had jumped to 18 percent. Along with taking a closer look at children’s daily diets, people must also consider the alarming percentage of kids who do not get enough -- or any -- exercise.
Seriously Scary Statistics
The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition says that only a third of American children participate in physical activities on a daily basis 3. Unfortunately, participation in team sports doesn't guarantee your child enough daily physical activity, either. According to a study published in the April 2011 issue of "Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine," only around 25 percent of children who play team sports get enough daily exercise 4. Of the young athletes studied, many spent an average of 30 minutes standing or sitting during sports practice.
Benefits of Exercise for Youths
Exercise Facts for Kids
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Kids who do not exercise miss out on the many benefits associated with daily physical activity. Along with reducing the risk of becoming overweight, daily exercise also helps control body fat percentages, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels. Regular exercise encourages stronger bones and healthier muscles. It also reduces the risk of various diseases, including diabetes and certain types of cancer. Regular physical activity also promotes better sleep, improved self-confidence, higher self-esteem and a better overall outlook on life.
- Kids who do not exercise miss out on the many benefits associated with daily physical activity.
- It also reduces the risk of various diseases, including diabetes and certain types of cancer.
How Much Should Kids Exercise?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 60 minutes of exercise per day for children and adolescents 12. Of these 60 minutes, aerobic exercise should make up the largest majority. Although some days only require moderate-intensity aerobic activity, kids should aim to get vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise at least three days per week. Moderate-intensity activities might include brisk walking or bicycling. During these activities, it should be slightly difficult to hold a conversation. Vigorous-intensity activities might include running intervals or playing a sport that requires bursts of intense speed. During these activities, it should be extremely difficult to hold a conversation. Children should also participate in muscle-strengthening and bone-strengthening activities at least three days per week. These activities include jumping rope, doing push-ups, climbing trees or doing gymnastics.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 60 minutes of exercise per day for children and adolescents 1.
- Although some days only require moderate-intensity aerobic activity, kids should aim to get vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise at least three days per week.
Fitting Exercise Into Busy Schedules
Pulse Oximeter for Workouts
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If you cannot set aside 30 to 60 minutes each day for your kids to exercise, divide the exercise into several 15-minute sessions throughout the day. For example, your child probably gets at least 30 minutes of recess at school, during which he can participate in several types of exercise. When he gets home from school, let him play outside for 15 minutes. After dinner, encourage him to head outdoors for another 15-minute exercise session. During colder winter months, take the kids to a local gym for at least 30 minutes of exercise after school.
- If you cannot set aside 30 to 60 minutes each day for your kids to exercise, divide the exercise into several 15-minute sessions throughout the day.
- During colder winter months, take the kids to a local gym for at least 30 minutes of exercise after school.
Related Articles
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity Facts
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: How Much Physical Activity Do Children Need?
- President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition: Facts & Statistics
- Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine: Physical Activity During Youth Sports Practices
- American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement. Active Healthy Living: Prevention of Childhood Obesity Through Increased Physical Activity. PEDIATRICS Vol. 117 No. 5 May 2006, pp. 1834-1842.
- The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Exercise and Weight Control.
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Writer Bio
Krista Sheehan is a registered nurse and professional writer. She works in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and her previous nursing experience includes geriatrics, pulmonary disorders and home health care. Her professional writing works focus mainly on the subjects of physical health, fitness, nutrition and positive lifestyle changes.