Benefits of exercise for children
We all agree that exercise is a gem for physical and mental health. Exercising is crucial, and it is necessary to get children used to having exercises in their routine from an early age. In this article, we will talk about the importance of exercises for children and their most important benefits for their physical and mental health, the best types of exercises, and how to encourage children to practice them.
Benefits of exercise for children's physical health
1| Boosting immunity
All mothers know that children get sick and bacterial and viral infections often during the year, especially during the flu and cold season. Public health experts at Harvard Health School emphasize that following a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity is the first and most crucial step to building strong immunity. So, if you want to boost your children's immunity, Reduce the number of visits to the pediatrician, encourage them to move, and commit to exercising.
2| Strengthening the heart
Studies have shown that swimming, cycling, and jogging help strengthen the heart muscle and improve its function. These types of exercises also significantly enhance overall cardiovascular health and blood circulation.
3| Promoting muscle and bone health
Exercise promotes bone tissue growth and increases bone density. It also stimulates muscle growth and strength. Healthy and strong bones and muscles are the foundation of physical health, which helps one enjoy a healthy posture.
4| Fighting obesity
Childhood obesity is one of the most serious health problems facing children of all ages. But with regular exercise and a healthy diet, you will ensure that your child burns calories at a high rate, preventing him from becoming obese. As exercise helps enhance metabolism, Enjoy a healthy weight.
5| Improving motor skills and coordination
Exercises help improve physical balance, motor skills, neuromuscular coordination in children, and various motor skills.
The importance of exercises for children's mental health
1| Depression prevention
A medical study conducted in Norway in 2017, the results of which were published after following 700 children between the ages of 6 and 10 years for two years, showed that children’s commitment to exercise activity protects them from depression.
2| Reduce stress and anxiety
A Harvard University study on reducing stress proved that exercise inhibits the secretion of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. It stimulates the secretion of endorphins, the hormones responsible for relieving pain and improving mood and overall mental health.
3| Boost self-confidence
Continuous movement, achieving goals, scoring points, and group play all enhance the child and teenager’s self-confidence, improve their self-image, and positively strengthen their personalities.
4| Improve sleep quality
Perhaps one of the most important benefits of exercising for children is that children who exercise regularly are able to fall asleep faster and easier, get enough hours of sleep, and wake up more energetic the next day.
5| Spend less time in front of the screen
When a child gets used to exercising as part of the daily routine, he will realize that there is not enough time spent in front of the screens of electronic devices and smartphones, which causes severe physical and psychological harm to children and adolescents.
How do I encourage my children to exercise?
- Choose a physical activity that your child loves and enjoys practicing.
- Make sure your child tries several sports.
- Ensure your child does not spend much time watching TV or playing with his phone.
- If the school is nearby, walk your child to school if possible.
- Reward your child for being active and exercising.
- Be a role model and exercise with your child.
Best Sports for kids
- Karate.
- Football.
- Basketball.
- Swimming.
- Dance.
- Cycling.
