Exercise Across the Lifespan
Physical Activity for Adolescents
Adolescents are ranged from 6 to 17 years of age where we see rapid development within the brain and the body. Our goal is to stress the importance of physical activity and the consequences of physical activity within this age group.
Click play to hear about the benefits of physical activity in adolescents and some suggestions on how to get moving while still having fun!
Childhood Obesity Pandemic
Childhood obesity is at an all-time high in the US, with the CDC seeing the pre-pandemic to pandemic period BMI nearly double in youth ages 2-19 (.052 to .1). Obesity in children sets them up for a lifetime of health issues. Following recommendations from the CDC hosts a multitude of health benefits, setting children up for healthier, longer life.
Health Benefits of Exercise for Adolescents
Per the CDC recommendations, adolescents should get 60 minutes a day, every day. At least 3 of these days should include: vigorous running, strength training, and bone strengthening exercises. Listed below are all of the health benefits children will see when meeting these recommendations.
Muscular Strength Training
Leads to better cognitive functions, not muscular hypertrophy. Number of activated neurons increases and leads to faster firing rates.
Reduces Risk Factors And Disease
Risk factors include: heart disease, cancer, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and obesity
Vigorous Exercise
Vigorous cardiovascular exercise helps children improve overall fitness as well as reduce anxiety and depression.
Manage Chronic Health Conditions And Disabilities
Physical activity can help reduce pain, maintain muscle strength in affected joints and reduce joint stiffness
Reduced Symptoms Of Anxiety And Depression
Physical activity reduces feel-good endorphins which better enhance your sense of feeling.
Improve Daily Quality Of Life
Helps to improve the ability to do everyday daily tasks. Also improves your balance and a lower risk of falls
References
“Adolescent Development.” Adolescent Development | Youth.gov, 2016, https://youth.gov/youth-topics/adolescent-health/adolescent-development.
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“Making Physical Activity a Part of a Child's Life.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 Aug. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adding-pa/activities-children.html.
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“Physical Activity Facts.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26 July 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/physicalactivity/facts.htm#:~:text=Regular%20physical%20activity%20can%20help,developing%20health%20conditions%20such%20as%3A&text=Heart%20disease.,Type%202%20diabetes.