Exercise is not only important for adults, it also benefits children in many ways. Ensuring that children have sufficient physical activities during the day is very important for their growth and development. Regular physical activity can help prevent chronic diseases and develop healthy and strong bodies in many ways:
- Develop muscle strength that will help prevent injuries.
- Improve your heart and lung capabilities that will help them function more efficiently. This will benefit in the daily activities and in the control of blood pressure.
- It will help keep your bones strong, which will help prevent osteoporosis later in life.
- Decrease body fat and help maintain a stable and healthy weight.
- Help children spend energy, which helps control weight.
- It can help reduce the risk of type II diabetes.
Regular physical activity is also essential to develop and perfect fine and gross motor skills, which are important for coordination, confidence, socialization and academic performance. Exercise not only benefits the physical health and motor skills of children; It can also benefit your mental health in many ways:
- Your self-esteem seems to increase and you gain confidence, feeling comfortable in your own shoes.
- Helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety due to physical activity alternating brain chemistry and increasing serotonin levels.
- Increase concentration and alertness by releasing endorphins that act on the brain to improve mental focus and cognitive abilities.
- Helps increase your energy levels by stimulating your circulation and blood flow that deliver oxygen and nutrients to your tissues.
- Control mood swings and improve the feeling of happiness! It is mental stimulation that gives children the feeling that they have achieved something.
To achieve results, it is suggested that children participate in some type of physical activity for at least 60 minutes each 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, playing basketball, kicking a soccer ball, riding a bicycle, etc. They are examples of activities that are sufficient to meet your needs. Going to the pool is another great option that is fun for everyone and can be a great aerobic exercise. They must participate 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 participate in your physical activity and be a role model. Ask them what they like to do and involve the whole family. You can let them choose the activity; this makes them feel special! Make sure they have access to active toys such as balls, jump ropes, bicycles, etc. Making the activity fun and playing as a family will prevail over the Internet and video games, and the child will get the exercise he needs.