Regular exercise is important for children if they are to grow up to be healthy, active adults. The benefits of exercise are also emotional. Children who are fit usually have a better state of mind, are more disciplined, and grow into well-rounded people. This may be the result of higher self esteem associated with exercise and fitness. Children need certain types of exercise that stress specific kinds of development.
Parents can do a lot to encourage a more active lifestyle for their child.
Parents should remember that children can develop the same kinds of overuse injuries as adults from exercise, like stress fractures and tendon injuries. For more information, please listen to the recording on preventing sports injuries in the muscle, joint and bone injuries and disorders section of your AudioHealth Library Directory. Also, children are more at risk for heat stroke and hypothermia, and should be careful when exercising in extreme heat or cold. In summer months, it is better to exercise earlier in the day, and during the winter, closer to mid-day. For more information on both of these subjects, please consult the first aid section of your AudioHealth Library Directory.