Exercise and Children

Running Head: Benefits of Exercise

Why Exercise is Important and Beneficial for Children
Katura Fennell
University of Memphis

Abstract

Over the last decade, Americans leading a sedentary life have more than doubled and among these Americans, 7 out of ten are children.   Research consistently shows that exercise is not just beneficial for adults, but it also benefits children.   This report shows that the benefits of exercise help to control such things as: weight control, bone building, cardiovascular protection and psychological benefits. This report refers to exercises benefits in the same manner as KidsHealth. According to KidsHealth, 60 minutes of exercise is not only “good for you”, it also helps you look good, rev up you energy levels, prevent diseases and increase you mood levels. (KidsHealth, 2009)

Why Exercise is Important and Beneficial for Children

Over the past decade the number of American’s living a sedentary lifestyle has increased tremendously. Living this kind of lifestyle is living with a lack of physical activity and exercise. According to a recent study by the U.S. Health and Human Services, seven out of 10 Americans, or 70%, are not getting the adequate amount of exercise they need. (Thompson, 2002) Out of the 70% of Americans that are not exercising regularly, approximately 52% are children and adolescents. (Casey, 2007) Although exercise and physical activity is something that is viewed to only be important and beneficial for adults, it has been stated that it is just as, if not more, important and beneficial for children. Exercise is beneficial and important for children because it helps with weight control, bone building, cardiovascular protection and psychological benefits.
When it comes to exercise, there are many questions that are raised about what it is and what its benefits are. The definition of exercise is: “activity performed in order to develop or maintain physical fitness and overall health. It is also necessary...