How much Physical Activity do Children need?

Just like adults, children need to exercise. Most children need at least an hour of physical activity every day. Regular exercise offers many benefits for children. It can help:

• Feel less stressed.
• Feel better about themselves.
• Be more prepared to learn in school.
• Keep a healthy weight.
• Build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
• Sleep better at night.

As children spend more time watching television, they spend less time running and playing. Parents should limit their time in front of television, video games, and the computer. Parents need to set a good example by being active too. Working out together can be fun for everyone. Competitive sports can help kids get fit. Walking or biking to school, dancing, bowling, and yoga are other forms of exercise for children.

• Recommended levels for preschool children (3 to 5 years of age): Preschool children (3 to 5 years old) need to be physically active throughout the day for their growth and development. Adults who care for preschool children should encourage them to be active while playing.
• Recommended levels for school-age children and adolescents (between 6 and 17 years of age): Children and adolescents between the ages of 6 and 17 should get 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day, including daily aerobic activity—and bone-strengthening activities (such as running or jogging) 3 days a week. and jumping) and building muscles (like climbing and doing push-ups).