Ironically, while the importance of physical activity is gaining momentum in the scientific and public health communities, a majority of Americans remain as sedentary as ever. Every parent knows that children are creatures of habit. The good news is that once routines, such as no television after school, are established, they tend to run themselves. The bad news is that old routines, like turning on the television whenever boredom strikes, take some energy to change. Limiting television watching is a good first step in obesity prevention.
Many families restrict television watching to only favorite shows, and use videos as special treats.
Several studies have found a strong link between television viewing time and obesity. This association is easily explained in terms of energy balance. It is as though television puts them into a hypometabolic trance. Second, commercials for food products urge viewers to eat, and we all know people love to snack in front of the tube. And third, children and teens who spend a lot of time in front of the television may not be developing the games and sports skills and love of physical movement that make physical activity enjoyable.