Active children
| Published: 4th March 2008 15:49 |
Active children
Statistics from the Health Survey for England also demonstrated that 22% of girls and 19% of boys aged 2-15 years will be regarded as obese in four years.
Obesity carries many health risks, including heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes (sometimes called ‘adult-onset diabetes).
The recommendation is that children and young people should partake in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, with several of these activities being aimed at muscle strength, flexibility and to improve health of bones.
If you signed your child up for every dance, swimming and football club you would need quite a large budget and a willingness to become a part-time taxi driver!
Isn't exercise expensive?
Some exercise is FREE!
Studies show that less than 50% of children now walk to school. The government are trying to encourage people to leave the car at home and walk or cycle instead. This is not always practical, but is a great way to exercise at no expense!
How about going on a bike ride after school or going on an after dinner walk to count the Christmas lights?
Children who are encouraged to play outside and keep active are more likely to continue to be physically active when they are older and less likely to develop obesity and the illnesses that are associated with it.
Organised activities
There are so many clubs and activities available to children nowadays. Try your school for free extra-curricular activities. Swimming is a great all-round exercise. There are dance, gymnastics, general sports, squash, football and many other activity clubs available in your local area.
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