In todays society kids are stuck inside glued to the T.V or any other electronic device. These sedentary activities provide few, if any, health benefits. Being physically active has tons of benefits! One of these benefits is an improvement in brain function through increased blood flow to the brain. Doing something active such as going on a little walk can give you clarity and help you feel more focused. Research has shown that after 30 minutes on the treadmill, students solve problems up to 10 percent more effectively.2 Exercise encourages your brain to work at optimum capacity by causing nerve cells to multiply, strengthening their interconnections and protecting them from damage.2
Another benefit of physical activity is that it helps strengthen the heart and lungs. The heart is a muscle, when you exercise your heart becomes stronger and more efficient. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Strengthening the heart muscle can help ward off heart disease, even in early childhood.1 Participating in physical activity also helps increase your lung capacity, allowing you to push more air in and out of the body.
Improving heart, lung and brain function are just a few benefits of being physically active, not only for children but as they grow into adults as well.
References:
1Bilich, K. (n.d.). 10 Benefits of Physical Activity. Retrieved September 29, 2014, from http://www.parents.com/fun/sports/exercise/10-benefits-of-physical-activity/
2Mercola. (2012, January 20). Exercise Benefits Children's Brain Function. Retrieved September 29, 2014, from http://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2012/01/20/physically-active-children-perform-better-academically.aspx
Most people discuss the need for children to workout when discussing childhood obesity, what they do not realize is that obesity is not the only effect of children not participating in activities. In this article we are shown that lack in physical activity in children can lead to heart and lung issues, if we et the children to start working out at a young age they will have a healthier heart and stronger lungs later on in life.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good article giving advice and evidence that not only is obesity bad for children but having physical activity is even better for for them. It is important for young children to be physically active to set a habit for them to follow later in their lives.
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