Five Benefits of Physical Activity for a Child’s Development
Physical activity is very beneficial to child development and young kid’s growth. Children who are active on a regular basis are more calm when they need to be and have an easier time focusing on tasks such as in school. Below is a list of the many benefits.
Develops healthy habits to take into adulthood
Establishing a positive relationship with fitness in a child’s early years sets them up to maintain a healthy lifestyle into adulthood. As people age, muscular atrophy or the loss of muscle mass begins to take place. In order to slow this process exercise is essential. Those who do not develop healthy exercising habits at a younger age will have a more difficult time establishing them once they are older which will lead to lesser quality of life when elderly. Regular exercise also prevents the development of health conditions such as heart disease or cancer. Kids who engage in physical activity regularly are also less likely to have weight related health issues.
Have more confidence in abilities and a better outlook on life
When kids are able to explore and try new things they can develop not only physically but mentally as well. For example when climbing, a child learns their own boundaries and how far they can go. With physical activity, it is possible to celebrate every little victory and encourage children to keep trying and improve. This can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. When testing boundaries, kids are also able to work on self awareness and a sense of independence.
Improved concentration
Improved concentration is an effect of exercise that is especially helpful to children. This has vast benefits particularly when in reference to school. Increased concentration in the classroom will likely lead to grade improvements and better learning.
Develop potential passions for careers
Though its not at the top of one's mind while exercising, there's many exercise related careers. There are a lot of potential careers whether one may develop a passion for fitness training or exercise physiology, there are so many paths to explore. If a child is getting regular exercise and genuinely enjoying it, there is no limit to how far it can take them.
Improves fine motor skills, balance, dexterity, flexibility, etc.
Depending on the type of physical activity there are different benefits. Using the example of climbing again, it works on grip reflex, core strength, etc. While an activity like running is more likely to build leg muscle and endurance. Exercise helps builds endurance and helps develop strong muscles and bones. Stretching is a big part of physical activity that tends to be overlooked. It is very beneficial because it helps warm up your body which can prevent injury. Stretching is also how you increase your flexibility.