The benefits of physical activity on the body are plentiful and well known. The more you move your body, the healthier you will be and the risk of weight related health issues – such as diabetes and heart disease - diminishes. For children, physical activity promotes healthy growth, improves fitness levels, and boosts self-esteem. Did you also know all the benefits exercise can have on a child’s mind?
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), students who are physically active actually had better grades, school performance, memories, and classroom behavior. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 60 minutes of physical exercise each day. Many parents mistakenly believe that if their children participate in physical activities, they will have less time for homework and other school assignments and be too tired to perform their best in school. Importantly, however, the scientific research data does not support this way of thinking.
Physical activity has been a very helpful as well in improving the behavior of children with behavioral disorders. In a study to determine whether an aerobic cybercycling physical education curriculum could benefit children who had behavioral health disorders, the findings showed that this type of aerobic physical activity benefitted children significantly. A cybercycle is a stationary bike - similar to the ones we see at the gym - with a screen to give the illusion of an outdoor environment. Often children with these disorders are not encouraged to participate in exercising and thus, suffer greatly as a result.
There are so many benefits that come from living an active lifestyle. Promoting healthy behaviors today guarantees a better life for your children in their future.
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