Ensuring that kids stay active is crucial for their health and development. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children between the ages of 6 and 17 get at least 1 hour of physical activity every day. Here's why staying active is so important and how to help them meet this goal:
Why 60 Minutes of Activity Matters
Physical activity plays a vital role in children's physical and mental well-being. It helps with:
- Building strong bones and muscles
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Improving cardiovascular health
- Boosting mood and mental health
Kids who engage in regular physical activity are not only healthier but also experience better sleep, enhanced focus at school, and reduced anxiety.
What Type of Activity Should They Do?
Most of the 60 minutes of activity can be moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. This includes activities that increase the heart rate, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
In addition, it’s important for kids to engage in vigorous-intensity aerobic activity at least 3 days a week. This is anything that gets their heart pounding and makes them breathe harder, like running, playing sports, or doing intense games.
Keep Them Moving!
Encouraging your kids to get active doesn’t have to be hard. Here are some fun ways they can get moving and enjoy their exercise:
- Outdoor sports: Basketball, soccer, or tennis
- Active games: Tag, hide-and-seek, or jump rope
- Family bike rides or hikes
- Dance or fitness challenges
Let’s keep our kids healthy and strong! Encourage them to move every day and make physical activity a fun part of their routine.