Physical inactivity increases the risk of dying prematurely, dying of heart disease, and developing diabetes, colon cancer, and high blood pressure. Most chronic illnesses are the result of cumulative unhealthy lifestyles. Benefits of Physical Activity People of all ages can benefit from regular physical activity. Significant health benefits can be obtained by including a moderate amount of physical activity on most, if not all days of the week. Nearly half of young people, ages 12-21 do not engage in physical activity on a regular basis.
Inactive children become inactive adults.
During childhood children learn basic motor skills that provide the basis for lifetime activity. Lifetime physical activities learned early in life contribute to active lifestyles and help obese children maintain healthy body fat levels later in life. Given the opportunity and encouragement, most children will choose to be active. Physical Education for Children Quality programs of instructional physical education provide the laboratory for the development of motor skills that serve as the foundation for active lifestyles. Competence in skills breeds self-confidence in physical activity settings.