Exercise for Kids: How Physical Activity Supports Brain Health
A lack of exercise puts kids at risk for very adult problems, like obesity and diabetes, and those are 2 diseases that nobody wants associated with their kids. But, there’s also research that links exercise to their cognitive development and achievement in school. Turns out that physical activity gives the young brain needed boosts, and who wouldn’t want their son or daughter to do better in school?
So, get your kids moving more and they will be healthier and do better in school.
Do Better In Classes and On Tests
Active children do better in class and on tests because exercise seems to lead to larger brain volumes in areas associated with memory and thinking functions, like behavior and decision-making.
Active Kids Appear To Concentrate Better and Have Longer Attention Spans
Research shows that being fit helps them stay focused to complete assignments and have better behavior in school. These findings appear to be true for children with special needs as well. Physical activity can benefit children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and/or an autism spectrum disorder.
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends 60 minutes of exercise for children at least five days of every week. With the demands of school and homework, this daily goal can be hard to achieve without help from Mom and Dad. Schools have reduced “gym” class time and gym classes are not as vigorous or as frequent as they should be.
PLAY – Find Something Your Child Enjoys
Work with your child to discover the types of activities he or she would enjoy most. Organized activities like joining a swimming club or sports teams are great. They also help teach teamwork and the kids get a chance to be with their friends too.
Activities can be more casual too, like bike riding, jumping rope or simply having fun at a local park with friends before starting homework.
Your Kids Look Up To You
It can’t be said enough that kids copy their parents’ behavior. If they see you working out and having a good time, they’ll be more likely to embrace exercise as a regular lifestyle habit.
Exercise as a family, and everyone will benefit.
Healthy Habits Start Early
Getting kids active isn’t about turning every child into an elite athlete. It’s about giving them opportunities to move, play, get stronger, build confidence, and discover activities they actually enjoy. Those habits can follow them long after childhood.
If your child needs more structure, Youth Training, Sports Performance Training, and Strength and Conditioning can provide age appropriate coaching while teaching proper technique, consistency, and accountability.
Lake Country Training works with young people and families throughout Oconomowoc, Delafield, Hartland, Pewaukee, Waukesha, and the Lake Country, Wisconsin area.
The goal isn’t to make exercise feel like punishment. Help kids learn early that being strong, capable, and active is simply part of taking care of themselves.
Want to help your child get started? Contact Lake Country Training and we’ll find the right approach for their age, abilities, and goals.
