The Importance Of Physical Activity For Children
It’s no surprise that we live in a world largely based upon technology, and in fact, many of your daily tasks may depend on it. And although the latest gadgets are usually on a child’s wish list during the holiday season or around their birthday, giving them the latest phone, tablet or gaming system can result in tons of inactivity. Not to mention, being too involved with electronics can even cause children to lose some of their social skills.
So what are stressing here? Put simply, it’s that all children need to be physically active to live a happy and healthy life. Take a look below to learn a few reasons why physical activity is growing increasingly important for children each and every day.
- It promotes weight control. According to the American Heart Association, about one in three American kids and teens are overweight. When children are inactive and spend most of their day sitting, a common result is consuming more calories than the body actually requires – those calories later turn into fat, which contribute to obesity. However, children who are physically active can see a deficit in calories, which ultimately reduces fat and the chances of becoming overweight.
- It leads to increased energy. Everyone feels sluggish from time to time, but the more active you are, the less likely you are to feel like this on a regular basis. When children participate in physical activities, they’re helping to increase the amount of energy they have, and that certainly has a positive impact on how they feel every day.
- It works the heart and lungs. It’s so important for our heart and lungs to be healthy, and being physically active can help a child’s muscles and organs stay this way. Through exercise and other similar activities, our heart becomes stronger and our lungs become more efficient at transferring air in and out of our bodies.
- It increases strength. Milk isn’t the only thing that’s said to build strong bones – regular activity does too. Additionally, exercise also works the muscles, which can lead to increased strength all around.
- It encourages positive emotions. Feeling down every once in a while is normal, but by being physically active on a regular basis, children can learn to become more confident in themselves, gain self-respect and ultimately just feel better. There’s no better way to feel good about yourself than through physical activity if you ask us!
Here at Renzo Gracie NH, we are HUGE proponents of children being physically active, and the earlier they start, the better! We also recognize how much of an impact technology and electronics are having on a child’s daily dose of physical activity, which is why we highly encourage participation in a fitness program or sport.
To learn about the children’s Jiu Jitsu and kids fitness programs we offer at our Salem and Exeter academies, please give us a call at (603) 777-2775 today.
