The importance of staying physically active cannot be understated. We all know that there is a strong correlation between physical activity and good health. There is a lot of evidence that clearly shows that being physically inactive can lead to numerous health problems. Though it is important for adults to remain physically active, physical activities are even more crucial for children. Most people do not understand the importance of kids being physically active compared to adults. Below, we will discuss the top reasons listed by Craggy Island to ensure that kids stay physically active.
1. To Keep Their Weight Normal
It may seem like a foregone conclusion that children who do not exercise are more likely to get overweight and obese. Despite this very obvious fact, there are very many kids who are becoming overweight. To compound this harrowing fact, a recent report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that by 2030, the UK will have the most obese population in Europe.
The rise in obesity rates will mean that there will be more people with cardiac ailments and chronic health conditions such as type-2 diabetes. The numerous health complications that can be attributed to obesity underscore the main reason why we should ensure that kids stay physically active. Though some may argue that adults need to make a bigger effort to live a healthier lifestyle as they advance in age, this may show that they did not receive enough education as to why they should choose a healthier lifestyle when they were younger.
2. For Better Muscle & Bone Development
The early years of a child’s life usually defines their general health as they grow older. Pre-teens and teens develop much faster than adults. When young kids stay active, they are more likely to develop stronger bones and muscles. Proper growth and development fosters great health and also makes kids less susceptible to physical injuries. Further, it also minimizes the chances of ailments that are influenced by bone strength when one is young such as osteoporosis from manifesting.
The rise in technology is one of the main reasons why many kids are not physically active today. Though many people acknowledge that the constant use of technological gadgets has detrimental health effects such as increasing the chances of one becoming obese, many subtle negative effects of technology usually pass unacknowledged. The fact that not all negative effects of technology on health are acknowledged is in itself worrying. However, what is more disturbing is the rise in the use of portable gadgets. Studies have proven that some acts such as watching television for too long can negatively affect the posture of an individual. When kids are using portable gadgets such as tablets and laptops, they tend to spend too much time in body positions that have a high likelihood of affecting their gait and posture over time.
3. To Improve Their Mentality
Many parents will agree that when kids do not take part in physical activities, they are likely to acquire a lazy trait for the rest of their lives. Not only will kids shun physical activities because of weak bones and health complications such as obesity and diabetes, they will also totally lack enthusiasm for physical activities. When kids do not take part in physical activities repeatedly, getting back on the exercise horse later in life becomes harder. Failure to partake in physical exercises also has the likelihood of turning children into loners who prefer isolation instead of interacting and socializing with other people.
As shown in the article above, it is not possible to accurately determine how the realities of our life today will affect the physical health of coming generations. It is very worrying that despite our good understanding of topics such as dieting, nutrition, and physical health, the general health of our population continues to diminish at a worrying rate. Based on what is happening now, the question is not how bad things will be in the future but how worse off they will be compared to the current moment.