Why do children need to stay active?

Bodies in Motion is a full-service location offering everything from preschool and summer camp to martial arts for children looking to be more active. Why do we work so hard to keep the children of Boise active? What level of activity is good for a child and why is it needed?

Children are still growing both mentally and physically. By giving them an active start to life, you are proving them with the starting boards to successful habits. Regular physical activity is an essential part of any person’s path to being healthy, children included. Teaching them to be active is vital in getting them to stay healthy as they grow and develop throughout their lives.

Positive Effects of Activity for Children

• Improved coordination, balance, and dexterity
• Stronger bones and muscles
• Increased flexibility
• Improved cardiovascular health
• Reduced stress and improved self-control
• Better posture
• Boosted confidence and self-esteem
• More friends and new friends

What Happens if Kids Don’t Get Enough Exercise?

When a kid is not outside (or inside) running around enough, they risk obesity or gaining weight. They can also suffer from a lack of flexibility and bad posture. Looking at the opposites of the remainder of the list above and you can see some slightly negative downsides to no activity. Activity for children is as important as important as eating and sleeping. If they don’t get enough, they risk lifelong complication and long term issues.

How Much Activity Do They Need?

When working to get children more active, you should work towards at least 60 minutes of activity a day. This activity should be at least moderate if not vigorous to ensure they are getting the physical exercise they need to thrive. If able, kids should get a few hours of activity a day to reap the most reward.

By entering kids into sports like martial arts or other after-school lessons, you can accomplish sixty minutes a day with ease. Also, playtime on weekends is great for their health. Take them to the ballpark for family time or schedule a playdate with another family to get them active and around others their age.  

The best way to ensure that a kid is staying healthy and active is to do something multiple times throughout the day. Though you can get out there for a few hours in one session, allowing multiple breaks in one day can be more helpful to the child both mentally and physically in the long run. Don't’ forget to include all types of activities during the week from strengthening activities like climbing or jumping to cardio activities like running or swimming.

​Overall, keeping a kid active can only help them as they grow and learn. Getting anywhere from one to three hours of vigorous physical activity will ensure that your child is getting the workout they need to form new habits and improve their overall health as they grow. If you are interested in sending them to an after-school session, look into the many classes we offer for kids of all ages!