Childhood obesity has become a significant health issue in the U.S. In addition to diet management, physical activity has countless health benefits, and luckily, it isn’t difficult to start. Below is a helpful guide parents can use along with their pediatrician’s advice to keep their children active and healthy.

How Does Physical Activity Benefit Children?

Childhood obesity affects roughly 13.7 million American children. This group is more susceptible to high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes, and breathing disorders. 

Children gain weight when they consume large amounts of calories that are converted to fat. Active children burn these calories during physical activity, so they maintain a healthy weight, build muscle, and strengthen their bones and joints, which can help with physical development. Aerobic exercises like running increase endurance, improve lung health, and strengthen the heart, while calisthenics can tone muscle.

Obesity also impacts mood and mental health. Exercise is great for building confidence and improving self-esteem in addition to the tangible benefits. Sports require critical thinking and coordination, and children will develop effective collaboration and leadership qualities. Physical activity also releases endorphins. This “feel-good” hormone will improve your child’s mood and combat anxiety and depression. They’ll be willing and motivated in the classroom, obedient at home, and committed to a healthy lifestyle.

How Can You Get Your Child to Exercise?

Children aged 6 and older need at least one hour of vigorous exercise each week. Start implementing this goal by recognizing unhealthy habits. Hours spent on the phone or in front of the TV after school will contribute to weight gain, so plan to reduce these pastimes into manageable chunks. 

You may wish to enroll your child in intramural sports, as practices and weekend games will give them all the exercise they need. You can also get together with neighborhood parents to organize playtime where all the children meet outside and get active.

To bring the family closer and get everyone more exercise, schedule family time where everyone puts their phones, tablets, and computers away. Go on a long evening walk, a weekend bike ride, or a nature hike. If you live in a big city, invest in a stationary bike or indoor workout equipment your children can use to supplement walks around the block. It’s helpful to commit to a routine yourself so that you set a positive example and stay healthy.

Visiting the pediatrician regularly is a vital part of childhood health, and residents of Chester, SC, turn to Mante Pediatrics. This practice is led by Dr. Ebenezer Mante and provides a wide range of medical services. Children and parents rely on the compassionate staff for primary care, allergy evaluations, vaccinations, sports physicals, and more. Call (803) 385-2075 to schedule a checkup for your child and learn more about the pediatrician online.