We’d like to think the kids of today are as fit as their parents were when they were the same age, but according to a new study, this isn’t the case. Researchers from the University of Australia’s School of Health Sciences recently presented their findings at the American Heart Association’s meeting – and it raises serious concerns about the fitness level of today’s youth.
According to this research gleaned from more than fifty separate studies, cardiovascular fitness among kids declined about 6% per decade in the United States between the years 1970 to 2000. What does this mean? The average kid of today is less aerobically fit than their parents were at the same age. In fact, this research showed it took kids between the ages of 9 and 17 a minute-and-a-half longer to run a mile than their counterparts30 years ago.
Why is this a problem? Research shows children that are obese or have a low level of fitness are at a greater risk for health problems later in life including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In addition, kids that enjoy a higher level of physical fitness are more likely to take part in sports and maintain an active lifestyle throughout childhood and into adulthood.
Why Are the Kids of Today Less Aerobically Fit?
Researchers believe between 30 and 60% of the decline in aerobic fitness over the past 30 years is due to kids being overweight or obese. If you look at the data, the decline in aerobic fitness is directly correlated with the rise in obesity in kids. On the other hand, it’s hard to say which is cause and which is effect. We already know that lack of exercise contributes to obesity and obesity makes it harder for children to exercise or play sports.
Here’s the really disturbing part. Kids who are inactive and less physically fit are at greater risk for health problems during childhood and later in life. At one time, type 2 diabetes and hypertension were rare among kids. Now, it’s not uncommon to see an overweight, active child with these “adult” health problems.
How Much Exercise Do Kids Need?
According to a study publishing in BMC Medicine, children need eighty minutes of exercise daily and at least twenty minutes of that should be vigorous exercise like running, fast cycling, jumping rope or other exercises that significantly increases their heart rate. Other sources recommend 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise daily. How many kids are getting enough exercise? Only about a third. That’s not a good thing since being active at an early age reduces the risk of coronary artery disease later in life. Inactivity sets the stage for future health problems.
Other Health Benefits of Staying Active during Childhood
Kids that stay active enjoy other health benefits as well. Exercise lowers blood pressure, helps with weight control, builds confidence and self-esteem and reduces stress. It also builds a greater appreciation of physical activity that will, hopefully, follow them into adulthood. Children that are active now can reap the health benefits of a lower risk for certain health problems later in life too. What are some ways to get them off the couch?
How to Encourage Your Kids to Be More Active
Encourage your kids to try different sports until they find one they enjoy. Kids are more likely to exercise when they’re doing something they’re passionate about.
Exercise together as a family. Cycle or run with your children so they’re exposed to aerobic exercise early in life and develop an appreciation for it. When you plan activities with your kids, make them active ones – hiking, swimming, tennis, flying a kite, etc.
Limit computer and television time. Time spent on a computer or in front of a television is directly correlated with obesity in kids.
Be a role model. Kids that see their parents exercising are more likely to do it themselves. Exercise at home where they can see you. Once they’re old enough, turn on an exercise DVD and encourage them to join in.
If it’s safe and they’re old enough, encourage them to walk to school if it’s within walking distance.
Encourage children to do active chores – walk the dog, rake the leaves, run the lawn mower, etc. once they’re old enough.
Get pedometers for everyone in the family to wear and see who racks up the most miles each week. Enjoy a little friendly competition!
The Bottom Line?
Helping kids stay active will pay off with health benefits now – and later in life. Give them the support and motivation they need to break a sweat every day.
References:
Medical News Today. “Children Less Fit Than Their Parents”
University of Rochester Medical Center. “Prevention of Heart Disease Starts in Childhood”
Circulation. 2002; 106: 143-160.
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