Physical Activity and Kids: Information for Parents

It’s a simple fact. Whether you are an adult or an adolescent, physical activity enhances your health, both physically and mentally. Combined with eating well, physical activity is what the both (and mind) needs, and just what the doctor ordered.
Being physically active helps develop a more durable heart, veins, arteries, and muscles and also increases muscular strength and flexibility.
Being physically active improves the functioning of the body, affects how much muscle a person has, and contributes to weight management. Increased physical activity has been associated with an increased life expectancy through decreasing risks of diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Research has also shown that physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, and improve mood and overall psychological well-being.

Examples of Moderate Physical Activity
•    Light bike riding, rollerblading, skateboarding, walking the dog, walking to school, golfing, playing on a jungle gym, flying a kite, playing hopscotch, playing catch, doing active chores, shooting baskets, and tossing a Frisbee

Examples of Vigorous Physical Activity
•    Fast bike riding, playing soccer, running, playing kickball, jogging, dancing, jumping rope, playing tag, aerobics, swimming laps, fast skating, and karate

To read about more specific physical activities recommendations for children check out our publication: http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/_i/I103/welcome.html