“Young people are getting lazier” – this statement has likely been said by every generation about the younger generation. How much truth lies behind it often remains unclear. However, global health reports show that children and adolescents frequently fail to meet the physical activity recommendations for kids. Why is physical activity so crucial for children, and how much should they move each day? Find out in this article.
Less Movement Due to Modern Lifestyles
Our bodies are designed to move. In earlier times, movement was essential for survival. But with industrialization and technological progress, machines have taken over much of the physical labor. Food is conveniently available in supermarkets or can be delivered directly to our homes.
These developments have led to a significant decrease in overall activity levels in the population. Experts agree that this decline, coupled with unhealthy eating habits, has contributed to numerous lifestyle diseases, such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases. But how does this impact our children, and what are the physical activity recommendations for kids?
Physical Activity Recommendations for Kids: How Much Exercise is Needed?
- Physical and Mental Development:
Childhood and adolescence are crucial for growth and development. - Strengthening the Cardiovascular System:
Regular activity promotes cardiovascular health. - Supporting the Musculoskeletal System:
Physical activity helps strengthen muscles and bones and maintain a healthy weight. - Improving Cognitive Development: Physical activity positively impacts cognitive development, including academic performance.
- Securing Long-term Health:
An active lifestyle in early years influences future activity habits, contributing to long-term health. - Importance of Physical Activity Recommendations:
Meeting the physical activity recommendations for kids is vital to setting them on a healthy life path.
Physical Activity Recommendations for Kids: How Much Physical Activity is Needed?
WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity for Children
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. This hour should consist of a mix of moderate and intense activities that raise the heart rate and engage various muscle groups.
Moderate activities include brisk walking, moderate cycling, or playground play. These activities require effort but should allow the child to still hold a conversation. Vigorous activities like running, jumping rope, or team sports such as soccer and basketball significantly boost the cardiovascular system and improve endurance.
How Many Kids Meet the Physical Activity Recommendations?
In a 2022 report by the german Federal Ministry of Health a study is cited which showed that about 20% of 11 to 17-year-olds do not meet the WHO’s recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per day. This highlights the need to improve children’s activity levels and encourage them toward a more active lifestyle.
Advice for Implementing Physical Activity Recommendations for Kids
Encouraging Movement Through Fun and Play
Especially in childhood, it’s important that physical activity is experienced through play. Kids should have the opportunity to move freely, whether it’s by running around the playground, climbing a jungle gym, or jumping rope. These activities not only enhance the physical development of muscles, bones, and ligaments but also help children see movement as something fun and enjoyable.
Team Sports and Social Interaction
Sports like soccer, basketball, or volleyball are excellent for teaching kids the value of teamwork. They learn how to work together toward goals, support each other, and handle wins and losses. The focus should always be on fun to ensure that children develop a lasting love for sports and exercise
Incorporating Physical Activity Recommendations for Kids into Daily Life
Parents play an important role in integrating the physical activity recommendations for kids into daily routines. Here is some advice:
- Family Activity:
Take family walks, bike rides, or hikes together. - Playful Activities:
Use the backyard or park to kick a ball, throw a frisbee, or organize spontaneous races. - Movement Snacks:
If children spend a lot of time on homework or screens, regular breaks for movement, such as jumping, stretching, or short games, are essential.
Conclusion: Physical Activity for Kids is Key to a Healthy Lifestyle
Regular physical activity is a central pillar for the healthy development of children and adolescents. The physical activity recommendations for kids provided by the WHO serve as a helpful guideline to ensure that young people get enough exercise to support their physical and mental well-being. Parents, teachers, and caregivers should focus on making physical activity enjoyable and a regular part of life so that children grow up to be active, healthy adults.
