Lifestyle diseases are still the highest form of illness and death amongst adults and still on the increase. Regular physical activity is not only a preventative for the risk factors associated with these diseases but it also can act as a cure. Alarmingly there has been a significant increase in cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes in children and obesity rates continue to rise.

It is commonly known that the lifestyle of children has dramatically changed over the last few decades and we see them spending much more time using electronic devices that don't require them to move around or get outside. Less time is spent being active, running around, riding bikes, swimming etc.

Commonly adults who regularly engage in physical activity have done so throughout their childhood. Due to this there is a greater need for access to structured physical activity for children even from an early age. Structured activity that is specific to the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of the child can create healthy habits and behaviours that continue throughout the rest of their lives.

Types of activities that focus on cardiovascular and muscular endurance and muscular strength are most beneficial and here is why:

• Assists in the children acquiring basic motor skills
• Learns team work and cooperation
• Perception of physical activity as fun
• Learns of new skills
• Improves concentration
• Improves self esteem
• Learns about sportsmanship and discipline with rules

If you feel your child is of need of regular structured activity you can seek out fitness professionals and personal trainers that offer services for kids, sporting clubs and schools that run before and after school activities. Help your child be a healthy and happy now and for their lifetime.

Angela Saville
Savvy Fitness