importance of physical activity in youths

The Importance of Physical Activity in Adolescence

Engaging in physical behavior during adolescence is very important to the overall health of a child. Regular physical activity is essential to both the mental and physical health aspects. Positive exercise habits formed in childhood tend to carry over into adulthood, thus helping reduce death and illness in the future. There are many other positive benefits that come through the form of exercise. Just as well, there are negative effects that can results from lack of exercise. Developing and instilling the importance of exercise through education is valuable to the youth of exercise.

When determining physical activity, it is important to know just how much qualifies as an adequate amount. It is recommended to exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days a week. However, shorter more intense sessions may accomplish the same feat. If a child participates in an insignificant amount of exercise per week, it would be wise to perhaps make a change in lifestyle. While obvious methods of exercise such as playing basketball, jogging, or swimming result in adequate exercise amounts, simply becoming more active is a good start. Actions such as taking stairs instead of the elevator, parking further away, or taking a pet for a walk are moderate amounts of exercise. The key is just getting out and being active. “Nearly half of America youths aged 12-21 years are not piously active on a daily basis” (National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion). Along with this fact, physical activity is on a sharp decline in youth as age increases. Resulting, is the notion that starting physical exercise during adolescence plays a vital role in their health for the future.

Taking party in physical activity plays a large role in positive health benefits on the body. For instance, regular exercise substantially reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease, the nations leading cause of death. Prevention to other risks include: stroke, colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The most sought after result from physical activity is weight loss. Through exercise, one can control their weight and battle the ongoing problem of obesity that this country suffers from. Through weight loss, the development of stronger and h...

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...er bones, muscles, and joints is produced. A healthier body is ideal for many aspects of health. One should desire to be physically fit, or at least be engaged in exercise. The short and long term effects are very beneficial. Aside from these physical effects, physical activity has many psychological and mental effects. A more physically fit adolescent is going to promote feelings of confidence, happiness, and a decrease in stress. All of these lead to high levels of self-esteem and social skill development. Engaging children and young people in enjoyable and positive physical activity promotes a social structure needed for development.

In times where the obesity rate in our country is sky rocketing, it is important to educate the youth of America on physical activity. Focusing effort on awareness and promotion of exercise is important to the minds of these children. The benefits from weekly exercise is tremendous. Both physical and mental health benefits results from such activity. Promoting a healthy lifestyle during adolescence leads to increased self-esteem and confidence which carries over into adulthood resulting in a happier more content life.