Exercise gives us the stamina to do the things we enjoy, not just sports, but the tasks we perform daily – grocery shopping, cleaning the house, and leisure activities. Although it’s never too late to start reaping the rewards of working out, the earlier we start the better, as a new study shows.
This study from the University of Jyväskylä has unveiled a startling connection between cardiorespiratory fitness in youth and the ability to succeed with work later in life. Published in the prestigious JAMA Network Open journal, this 45-year study raises concerns about the declining fitness levels of adolescents, teens, and young adults and how it could affect their work life later.
As you know, the fitness level of kids and adolescents has declined over the years, a trend that continues. A number of factors contribute to this drop in fitness prowess, but the switch to more sedentary activities plays a key role in kids spending more time in a chair rather than on a bike. To add to the problem, fewer kids walk or bike to school. Some schools have also cut back on physical education classes and after-school sports/activities and even outdoor playtime has taken a hit.
What the Study Showed
For the study, researchers measured the physical fitness level of adolescents and teens between the ages of 12 and 19, at a time they were still in their school years. After 25 years, they assessed how well they were functioning in their work life. And they repeated the assessment again when they were between the ages of 57 and 64.
The results shocked even the researchers! They found that subjects who had a low cardiovascular fitness level during the adolescent years performed less well in their work life decades later. Plus, they missed more days from work due to illness. Remarkably, the reduction in work performance and absences from work continued throughout their work life, from middle age to retirement.
The researchers also looked at body mass index (BMI) and muscle strength. Here, they didn’t find a correlation between these measurements and success in the workplace.
This study is the first to identify a link between youth cardiorespiratory fitness and future work performance. Perttu Laakso, the doctoral researcher behind the study, expressed serious concerns about the findings. “The results are worrying, even though work ability is a multifaceted concept with numerous factors affecting it,” he said. “Given that the participants in the study were born in the 1960s and had a higher average youth cardiorespiratory level compared to today’s adolescents, the finding is even more worrisome.”
The Worrying Trend of Reduced Cardiovascular Fitness
What can take away from this? Unless this trend shifts, the youth of today who are sedentary are putting themselves at risk of a less satisfying and successful work life. The implications are far-reaching, both for individuals and society. At an individual level, a less than satisfactory work experience may contribute to lost income, financial strain, and a less happy and productive work life.
This study further shows why it’s important to be active and physically fit during childhood and adolescence and why it needs to be an ingrained, lifelong habit. But it’s not just a question of getting kids involved in sports and outside to play outdoor games, they need to curb excessive sitting and screen time, as both contribute to declines in heart and metabolic health. Excessive sitting and inactive screen time are the norms for kids today. Kids spend less time playing games outdoors and participating in sports. So, it’s not surprising that cardiovascular fitness is declining, and obesity is rising.
Let’s Keep Moving and Get Kids Moving Too
This study serves as a wake-up call for parents, educators, policymakers, and society at large. The alarming link between youth fitness and future work ability needs attention and action. But how can we change the trend? It requires a multi-faceted approach that includes physical activity, less sitting, and good nutrition.
One of the best ways to get kids moving is to be a good role model. Once they reach a certain age, encourage them to exercise with you. You can teach them the basics of weight training and help them develop a love of strength training and cardiovascular exercise.
Start with bodyweight exercises, like squats and push-ups, and only add weight once they’ve mastered the technique. You could even give them fitness challenges and teach them to keep a fitness journal. These habits will help them be more disciplined in everything they do in life.
Sweating is a fantastic way to bond with your kids too! Kids are like sponges, soaking up the habits and behaviors they see around them. Being a good role model is one of the most effective ways to get them moving. Don’t forget to give them a high five when they finish a workout and celebrate their accomplishments!
Conclusion
Exercise can affect your life at all stages and the earlier you start the better. Getting kids active early guides them down a pathway that leads to greater success at work and in life. The study emphasizes the importance of getting kids active during childhood and adolescence, setting them on the path to a lifelong love of exercise. Physical education classes are a great start, but they’re not enough.
Encourage your kids to get off the couch and find activities they enjoy, whether it’s joining a sports team, playing games with friends, or simply taking a walk in the park. Show your kids the joy of movement by getting active with them. Go for a bike ride together, have a family dance party in the living room, or challenge them to a friendly fitness competition.
Remember, exercise isn’t six-pack abs and fancy gym memberships. It’s about building a healthy body and mind, setting the stage for a fulfilling life, and even creating fun family memories along the way. So, let’s get moving and empower our kids to do the same!
References:
- University of Jyväskylä – Jyväskylän yliopisto. “Low cardiorespiratory fitness in youth is associated with decreased work ability throughout adulthood.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 8 April 2024. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/04/240408130641.htm>.
- “Exercise and Children: The Benefits – Healthline.” https://www.healthline.com/health-news/exercise-benefits-children-physically-and-mentally.
- “Benefits of physical activity for children | healthdirect.” https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/benefits-of-physical-activity-for-children.
- “Get the Facts: Physical Activity & Young Kids | Prevention Research ….” 03 May. 2022, https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/prc/priority-areas/physical-activity/pa-young-kids-fact-sheet/.
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