With nicer weather coming we focus on the benefits of exercise for children. With the lock-downs and having completely restructured our children’s education, the importance and benefits of exercise is something that definitely has not changed!
1. Health & Fitness
Lots of evidence is shown how human beings benefit with a strong heart, healthy bones and muscles through exercise. Children who have great body composition live healthier and longer lives.
2. Improves Concentration
With devices and social media around every corner, children are struggling with more issues with concentration than ever. Exercise is shown to improve concentration and cognitive abilities according to research. For children, that can mean studying becomes easier and focusing in the classroom improves.
3. Less Stress
Exercise lowers stress. Low stress results in a better immune system. Lower stress causes less confusion and problems at home, school, and with peers . It also means that children can get better sleep and grow!
4. Better Sleep
Sleep is important for children as natural growth hormones are released while they are deeply rested. This study provides some insight. Body processes are fixed and healed as well. Good sleep can mean the child is better rested and much more ready for that test or morning sports practice.
5. Prioritization
Children who exercise understand the meaning of work, and then play. Exercise requires organization and routine. Children who pick up routines early on are able to accomplish anything they set their mind to. Not only is it a nice healthy outlet, it also teaches time management skills which come in extremely handy for their future.
6. Self-Esteem & Confidence
Children who take on fitness activities are much more independent and self-empowered. It’s a great way for them to step outside of their own comfort zone. They are so used to taking on challenges on a regular basis and have a great relationship with success and failure. Real confidence comes into play when one knows themselves dealing with adversity. Improved mental health also plays a big part in the improved confidence. One can see how this naturally creates a much more confident child in social environments as well. This study is based on self-esteem and adults, however there needs to be more data on younger children: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5068479/